Winter Coats: Do Dogs Grow Thicker Or Lighter Hair?

As the cold weather creeps in, it's not just us humans who need to wrap up warm. Our furry friends may also need a little extra insulation to keep them cosy when temperatures drop. But do dogs' winter coats have more or less hair? Well, that depends on several factors, including the dog's breed, size, age, and health.

Large dogs with thick, dense coats, such as Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes, generally don't need protection from the cold. These breeds have double coats that provide natural insulation. However, smaller dogs with thin fur, like Chihuahuas and French Bulldogs, can struggle to generate and retain enough body heat, so they may benefit from a winter jacket. Senior dogs, puppies, and dogs with certain health conditions like arthritis or hypothyroidism may also need some extra warmth.

While a dog's winter coat may not always have more hair, it's important to recognise when your furry friend might need a little help staying warm. Signs that your dog is cold include lifting their paws off the ground, slowing down or refusing to walk, a hunched posture, and sudden anxiety or extreme tiredness. So, keep an eye on their behaviour and consider investing in a cosy dog coat if they're feeling the chill!

Double-coated dogs

Some double-coated dogs, like Huskies, are easily recognisable due to their extra fluffiness. However, other double-coated breeds, such as Beagles, appear quite smooth and sleek. Spitz-type dogs are usually associated with double coats because they have long hair and a fluffy appearance. But double-coated dogs come in all shapes and sizes, and some small-breed terriers with wiry soft topcoats are also double-coated.

While it may be tempting to shave a double-coated dog during the warmer months, this is not advisable. The two layers of the double coat work together to regulate the dog's temperature, keeping it cool in summer and warm in winter. Shaving can cause skin problems, increase susceptibility to sun damage and skin cancer, and permanently damage the dog's coat.

Some examples of double-coated dog breeds include:

• Bernese Mountain Dog
• Border Collie
• Australian Shepherd
• Newfoundland
• Samoyed
• Alaskan Malamute
• Labrador Retriever
• Greater Swiss Mountain Dog
• Cardigan Welsh Corgi

Single-coated dogs

When it comes to grooming, single-coated dogs are generally lower maintenance than their double-coated counterparts. They don't require daily brushing, but it is recommended to use a curry brush a few times a week and offer occasional baths to release excess hair.

Dog hair vs fur

While the terms "hair" and "fur" are often used interchangeably when describing a dog's coat, there is a distinction between the two. All dog coats are made of keratin, but the difference lies in how the coat grows.

Dogs with fur have coats that grow to a predetermined length and then stop growing. The outercoat of a dog's fur has three fully-formed layers: the cuticle, cortex, and medulla. The outercoat hairs are longer and stronger than those in the undercoat, which grows in and falls out many times a year, often seasonally.

Dogs with hair will have coats that grow for much longer, sometimes even for years. The hairs in these coats grow until they break or are cut. Poodles, for example, have an extremely long growth phase, with some Poodles still growing their coats after four years. Other breeds with hair include the Maltese, Havanese, and Puli.

Dogs with a single coat, like Poodles, are referred to as having hair, while dogs with both an undercoat and an outercoat (or double coat) are said to have fur. Examples of dogs with fur include the Newfoundland, most livestock guardian dogs, Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Collies, and French Bulldogs.

Hair is usually longer, finer, and often wavy or curly, while fur is shorter, denser, and has a shorter growth cycle, resulting in more frequent shedding. Dogs with hair may produce less dander and shed less than dogs with fur. However, hair coats can mat and tangle more, while fur dogs benefit from de-shedding treatments.

How to care for your dog's winter coat

As the seasons change, your dog's coat will undergo some adjustments to prepare for the colder months. Here are some tips to help you care for your furry friend's winter coat and ensure they stay warm and comfortable:

Understand Your Dog's Coat Type

Different dogs have different types of coats. Some dogs have a double coat, which includes both an undercoat and a guard coat, while others have a single coat, often referred to as having hair instead of fur. Knowing your dog's coat type will help you provide the right care.

Keep a Consistent Bath Routine

Proper and consistent bathing is essential for your dog's overall health and coat care. Use a good shampoo to keep their coat clean, especially if they spend a lot of time outdoors. A consistent bath routine will help ensure their winter coat stays full and healthy.

Brush Their Coat Regularly

Brushing your dog's coat regularly is crucial for maintaining coat health. Depending on their breed and coat type, they may need to be brushed daily. Brushing helps remove dead fur, stimulates new hair growth, and distributes natural coat oils. It also prevents matting, which can be uncomfortable for your dog. Be sure to use the right type of brush for your dog's coat.

Visit a Professional Groomer

In addition to at-home grooming, consider taking your dog to a professional groomer. They can provide detailed grooming services that may be beyond what you can do at home, ensuring your dog's coat is in top condition for the winter.

Monitor Their Diet

Your dog's diet plays a significant role in coat health. A well-balanced diet with proper canine nutrition and consistent feeding times is essential. If you notice any coat issues, consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog's food includes all the necessary nutrients.

Watch for Signs of Poor Coat Health

Pay attention to your dog's shedding and hair growth patterns. If you notice any changes, such as dry or itchy skin, dull fur, thinning hair, bald patches, or excessive dandruff, consult your veterinarian. Poor coat health can be an indicator of underlying health issues.

By following these tips, you can help ensure your dog's winter coat is healthy and ready to keep them warm during the colder months.

Do dogs need winter coats?

As the temperatures drop, many dog owners wonder whether their furry friends need winter coats to stay safe and warm. The answer depends on several factors, including the dog's breed, size, age, health, and the specific climate. While some dogs have thick coats that provide adequate protection from the cold, others may benefit from an extra layer of warmth.

Large dogs with thick, dense coats, such as Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes, generally do not require additional protection from the cold. Their fur is genetically designed to keep them warm, even in freezing temperatures. However, smaller dogs with short hair or single coats, such as Chihuahuas, Toy Terriers, and Miniature Pinschers, have a harder time retaining heat and may need a winter coat. Lean-bodied breeds with short hair, like Greyhounds and Whippets, also fall into this category.

Dogs that sit low to the ground, such as Pembroke Welsh Corgis, may be more affected by low temperatures as their bellies brush against snow and ice. Additionally, breeds that typically have long hair but are clipped or shorn, like Poodles, may need a winter coat to compensate for the altered protection of their natural coat.

Senior dogs are another group that may require a winter coat. As dogs age, their ability to regulate heat declines, making them more susceptible to the cold, even those with thick coats. Conditions such as arthritis or a weakened immune system can also make older dogs more vulnerable to the cold.

When choosing a winter coat for your dog, it's important to consider the type of material, ensuring it's compatible with your dog's fur coat type and doesn't cause any allergic reactions. The coat should fit snugly, providing enough room for the dog to move freely while trapping their body heat. It should also cover the neck and belly for added warmth and protection.

In addition to a winter coat, protecting your dog's paws during the cold weather is crucial. Dog booties with good traction can prevent slipping on wet surfaces and protect against salt or other chemicals used to melt ice.

While some dogs may benefit from wearing a winter coat, it's important to monitor their time spent outdoors in cold weather. Most dogs can safely enjoy outdoor activities in temperatures above 45°F (7.2°C). However, when the temperature drops below 32°F (0°C), smaller dogs and those with thin coats are at a higher risk of health issues like frostbite and hypothermia. Limiting their time outside to 10 to 15 minutes at a time and opting for multiple short walks instead of long ones can help keep your dog safe and warm during the winter months.

Frequently asked questions