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How cold is too cold? Does my dog need a coat for winter walks?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

I have a Basset Hound. Do dogs need coats in the winter?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Linda G, MS, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 12th, 2019

Hello. It really depends on the overall conditions & how long your pet will be outdoors. Temps around freezing are very tolerable for dogs during short excursions outdoors & longer walks where they will be moving pretty consistently. Temps that get down into the teens, a strong wind or rain, your basset might appreciate a coat, but most dogs can easily tough things out for their daily walks & many resent wearing a coat. There is nothing wrong with putting on a coat, but even a short haired breed can puff up their coats a bit creating an insulating air pocket over their skin. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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