Manufacturing Mammal Winter Wardrobes: A Visual Guide from our Canine Models

To be honest, I have a deeper, and rather odd, relationship with certain pet-related topics. After all, in the dog-centric lifestyle that I lead by operating a 24/7 daycare camp and boarding hotel out of my home, I practically live and breathe pets every day. What is the most interesting part about it all is that I get to know all of my tail-wagging friends on a deeper, more personal, level. Although I am not a pet parent or a dog mom myself, I feel as though I have adopted each of them on a part-time basis (since I only get so much time to hopefully form a long-lasting bond with any dog for whom I care).

There’s something to be said when the pet(s) you care for belong not to you, however another human being who considers their pet(s) mean the actual world to them. Not only must their dog(s) trust you, but also must the pet parent(s) themselves. It is imperative that they put their full faith and trust into you, since they are believing in your abilities as the caretaker of their fur-child. It is all about bestowing your attention, compassion, appreciation, and your expertise on both the pet’s mental and physical health. Also, let’s not forget happiness. As for me, my passion for animals has become an obsession as I continue to master an understanding of all the diverse traits, features, tendencies, and needs of the multiple breeds, histories, and personalities I work with every day.

To be frank: just because dogs have warm and luscious fur coats, does not mean they are good to go during the coldest winter storms. Just like us humans, they need to be accommodated too! That’s why I was reluctant to write another redundant (soon to be lost in cyberspace next to its counterparts) blog about how to assemble a winter wardrobe for your dog. Instead, I have provided portraits of my beautiful and handsome models of the Mama SaMammals’ household as they rock (lmao idk I just like it) our own winter wear as visuals to explain and describe more specific, unique points and tips for fetching the right doggy jacket, sweater, and vest for that winter weather.

Even the fluffiest of the fluff still needs their essential outerwear

I’ve noticed a trend in different “how-to” blogs that guide pet parents to choose appropriate doggy coats and whatnot. What’s interesting is that they all kick off with questions about whether your dog even needs a coat, as some breeds are not naturally able to bear the cold, while some enjoy harsh climates due to their thick fur coats that keep them well-insulated. However, fluffy fur does not grant such dogs full immunity from winter’s piercingly icy, below zero-degree temperatures, just an FYI for you.

Please take a moment and consider your oversized lap warmer or bed-hogging cuddle buddy carefully before sending them basically naked out into piercing cold climates. Sure, they may initially enjoy it as they are dogs and honestly don’t know better. But, eventually, wouldn’t YOU need a little more than a light jacket?

For example, the following canine mammals in portrait #1 and #2 below are our Siberian Husky siblings, Nikko (left) and Bella (right), who are flawlessly modeling SaMammals' light windbreaker attire from WeatherBeeta.

Winter Winter Model #1: Nikko, Male, Siberian Husky.

Winter Wear Model #2: Bella, Female, Siberian Husky.

This fluffy, giant, and cold-accustomed breed of a Siberian Husky may necessitate clothing no heavier than a simple windbreaker due to their already-thick fur coats. In this case, we may then deem light windbreakers as a Siberian Husky’s version of a perfectly appropriate warm winter coat. I mean, look at those happy, doggone-lucky faces!

All dogs get dirty, and all dogs merit clothing to maintain a healthy hygiene. Therefore, you’re best off purchasing clothes that can be washed easily!

Special winter clothing is sometimes necessary, especially if a dog’s time outdoors is spent playing, exploring, rolling, and enjoying the filthy melted snow that winter leaves behind. This slushy muck molds fluffy coats into snowy mud piles of filth, which only gives pet parents another weather-related worry.

Our fun and active pups Bailey (Labradoodle; top, left), Sophie (Goldendoodle; top, right), and Archie (Lab Mix; left) exemplify high-energy sporting and working dogs who can undergo mildly to extremely cold temperatures. Given their intense playing styles, it generally takes a few minutes outside before their blood is pumping enough to warm their bodies. That said, intense dog-play styles inevitably lead to matted fur, crusted mud stains, lodged pieces of dirt, and much more that the list can go on for days.

Winter Wear Model #3: Bailey, Female, Labradoodle.

Winter Wear Model #4: Sophie, Female, Goldendoodle.