Vet explains whether dogs really need to wear coats during colder months
A vet has taken to social media to explain whether or not dogs really need to wear coats in winter as temperatures start to drop - and her answer may surprise you
Many of us fret about our pets when the weather turns nasty and cold. We've experienced everything from rain to storms this autumn, which isn't exactly a delight if you're out walking your dog. We ensure we're bundled up for these frosty jaunts, but should we be doing the same for our furry companions? This question was recently tackled by a vet.
On TikTok, a veterinarian named Maria posed the question: "Putting a coat on your dog... is it humanising them? Do they really need it?" The expert revealed the answer isn't as straightforward as one might assume.
She elaborated: "Many times this practice is criticised because it's said that they are animals, that they are tough, that they can withstand the cold, that their fur protects them, that it regulates their temperature... and that putting a little coat on them is stupid and humanising them.
"Well, I disagree. Like everything in life, you have to use a bit of common sense... It depends a lot on the dog and its breed."
To illustrate her point, the Spanish vet discussed various different breeds. She stated: "Nordic dogs, like a Husky, don't need a coat."
This is due to their fur naturally being able to endure more extreme climates.
This can also apply to other breeds. Maria added: "My dog, for example, is a Border Collie and has quite a bit of fur; it's also double-coated, so in winter it has more wool."
However, other pooches are not accustomed to freezing temperatures and may require additional warmth in the form of a fleece or coat.
Maria elaborated: "There are little dogs that don't have that type of fur. They don't have it as long or as thick, nor do they have a double coat, and sometimes it's trimmed before winter starts, so their skin is a bit more exposed to the cold."
The vet also advises dog owners to keep a close eye on their pets' behaviour. If they are shivering or appear cold, then it might be time to take action.
She added: "My dog comes first and I want my dog to be well; I don't care what any stranger says out there. Just meet your dog's needs. That's not humanising them - it's caring for them and ensuring their comfort and welfare. And don't worry about what people say, it's not black or white. Take care of your dog."
Since Maria's video was uploaded onto TikTok and has received thousands of likes. Many also took the time to leave positive comments.
One said: "If I don't shelter and cover my greyhound, I won't sleep because he cries at me. It's a drama queen!"
Another penned: "I put a coat on my Yorkshire terrier and then had to put another on my Pitbull because the boy was jealous."
And a third added: "Very important point. There are breeds of dogs that originally didn't belong to certain places and humans took them, removing them from their habitat."