Baby, It’s Cold Outside

Dogs need exercise whatever the weather. If you live in a colder climate, your dog should be protected against rain, sleet, cold wind and/or snow. Here are some fun fashion-forward ideas to add to your dog’s winter wardrobe to ensure he’s properly attired. All are available for pooches of all sizes.

Harry Barker Fisherman Sweater

Harry Barker doggie accessories are often featured in Vogue and Oprah’s must-have lists. This beautiful ribbed Fisherman sweater is indeed a winter-must have. The size chart on the website makes it very easy to find the right size for your pooch. It’s available in four sizes and in fire-engine red and brown and priced between $16 to $22. For an additional $12, you can have your dog’s name embroidered on the sweater. harrybarker.com

 

Muttluks Snow Mushers

Keep your dog’s paws protected from snow and iced sidewalks with special ergonomically designed snow boots. Snow Mushers are made from 100 percent recycled materials, are flexible and have rugged rubber soles with traction treads. They are also fleece-lined for warmth and comfort. Reflective accents provide nighttime visibility and safety, and they have an extra-large opening to make it easy to put on and take off.  They come in packs of two, which means you are going to need two packs. Available in eight sizes from XXS to Large and priced from $44 a pack. muttluks.com

 

Pawz Rubber Dog Boots

For all terrain outdoor adventures, Pawz rubber dog boots are ideal because they are reusable and ultimately disposable. They come in eight sizes and can be worn for any occasion, including keeping feet clean after being outside in wet weather. They also protect dogs’ feet from salted sidewalks and chemically treated lawns, and provide excellent traction on all surfaces. Available in fun bright colors as well as a camo pattern, they come 12 boots to a pack. Visit the Pawz website for its store locator.

 

The Loft Coat

The Loft coat from Kurgo is designed for active dogs who are high energy even in cold weather. It’s a shorter coat than one designed to go from shoulder to tail and is reversible with reflective piping for visibility. It also has a two-way zipper to incorporate a harness worn below the coat. Lightweight and water resistant, it is available in five fabulous color combos and five sizes; each coat is $35. kurgo.com

 

The Swiss Alpine Jacket with Hood

If you are taking your dog skiing with you this winter, Hip Doggie has a fabulous selection of ski jackets/vests to make sure your pooch is dressed for the slopes and/or to chase snowballs. This Swiss Alpine-style vest has a detachable faux-fur trimmed hood and its water repellent thick outer shell is fully lined in soft warm fleece. A Velcro front closure makes it easy to put on and take off and it features a reinforced leash hole. It is available in four colors and five sizes. The company offers a fun selection of puffer jackets with and without hoods, too. hipdoggie.com

 

The Tailored Dog Raincoat Supreme

Made from a lightweight waterproof fabric similar to Gore-Tex®, this stylish raincoat from the Tailered Dog doubles as a windbreaker in dry but chilly weather. The Raincoat Supreme’s design features Velcro straps for snugness and has toggles so that you can adjust the length for an absolute perfect fit. It comes with a rain cap/sun visor and a beautiful Audrey Hepburn-esque bow adds a bit of fashion flair. Available in red and yellow, the ensemble starts at $129.99 and comes in three adjustable sizes to fit small to large breeds. tailoreddog.com

---

About the Author: Sandy Robins is the 2013 winner of the “Excellence in Journalism and Outstanding Contribution to the Pet Industry Award.” Her work appears on many of the country’s leading pet platforms, such as MSNBC.com, MSN.com and TODAYShow.com. She is a regular contributor and columnist in multiple national and international publications, including Catster, as well as the author of the award-winning books “Fabulous Felines: Health and Beauty Secrets for the Pampered Cat” and “For The Love of Cats.” Learn more about Sandy on her website or Facebook page. #welovecats