8 Sweaters Your Dog Might Need This Chilly Season—Really

OK, dog parents, well before the first flurry of snowflakes fall, it’s time we clear something up: Your dog can get cold. For years, people have perpetuated the myth that their pups have fur coats to protect them against the cold weather, and it’s simply wrong — and dangerous. “Just like us, many dogs are more comfortable outside when wearing an extra layer,” says Dr. Nancy Kay, a board-certified specialist in the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine. In other words, sweater weather isn’t just for crunchy-leaf season; your pup could benefit from a jumper (as they say in the U.K.) all winter long.

In addition, Dr. Kay stresses that each dog’s needs in the winter can be specific to their breed and size. “Smaller dogs, in particular, have difficulty maintaining a normal body temperature when exposed to freezing conditions.” Regardless of their size, Dr. Kay asserts that most pups need some form of protection against the elements, with little exception: “If the love of your canine life happens to be an Arctic breed (Malamute, Husky, Samoyed), no need for canine clothing!”

Bottom line, it seems that it is the rule — not the exception — that your dog needs a go-to extra layer for those extra-chilly nights. Luckily, there has never been more variety when it comes to comfortable and stylish options for your pup. Below, our sweater weather favorites to keep your favorite family member toasty all autumn and winter long.

Btw, our editors (and their pets) picked out these products. They’re always in stock at the time we publish, but there’s a chance they’ll sell out. If you do buy through our links, we may earn a commission. (We’ve got a lot of toys to buy over here, you know?)

Ware of the Dog Fairisle Floral Sweater

$82

No one blends trend and classic styles better than Ware of The Dog — and this fair isle option is the oh-so-comfy proof. Made out of 100 percent buttery soft Merino wool, this sweater is the perfect comfy option for the pup who is just starting to build out their wardrobe.

• Women Owned

$82 at Ware of the Dog

Little Beast I Love Me Sweater

$65

You tell your pup how much you love them every day — now you can give them a chance to demonstrate a little self-love with this “I Love Me” sweater. Show off your own self-confidence with matching socks.

• Women Owned
• Gives Back

$65 at Little Beast

Love Thy Beast Pom Pom Sweater

$48

This adorable option is an elevated (literally) take on the classic polka-dot look. This three-dimensional pom pom sweater features a stunning combo of muted colors, against a creamy ivory knit. Plus, this sweater can be worn as a turtleneck or as a lower neckline look. If you have a curious chewer on your hands, keep an eye that your pup doesn’t somehow pull off these little pom poms and turn them into a snack.

• Women Owned
• Sustainable

$48 at Sir Dogwood

Lucy & Co. Awesomely Autumn Sweater

$45

The perfect sweater to celebrate the fall season, this pumpkin-adorned choice is made from super soft acrylic yarn with a handy leash-clasp opening for those autumn hikes.

• Gives Back

$45 at Lucy & Co.

Little Beast Midnight in Paris Onesie

$45

It doesn’t get more chic than this simple black-and-white striped turtleneck onesie. Your pup will fit right in on those Parisian streets.

• Gives Back
• Women Owned

$45 at Little Beast

Wagwear Fisherman Sweater

$75

Do you sense that, in a past life, your pup was a stoic Irish fisherman with calloused fingers and a graying beard? If so, consider this respectable, 100 percent Aran wool sweater to send them on a journey back to their Celtic seafaring roots.

• Women Owned

$75 at Wagwear

The Foggy Dog x Gray Malin Hit the Slopes Dog Sweater

$50

Make sure your dog’s the most stylish at the ski lodge. Made in collaboration with photographer Gray Malin, this cozy sweater is customizable with personalized embroidery for an extra $13.

• Women Owned
• Gives Back
• Sustainable

$50 at The Foggy Dog

Fuzzyard Turtle Teddy Dog Fleece in Chai

$28

Every pup deserves this level of coziness. This fleece jacket by Fuzzyard keeps your pup warm with a drawstring neck and ribbed cuffs. If camel’s not your dog’s vibe, the sweater also comes in a gorgeous rosemary green.

$28 at Dog & Co.

Remember, pup parents: Introduce your dog to clothing on a slow and steady basis. Many dogs will not be used to wearing an extra layer — even when they are needed to keep them warm during below-freezing potty breaks. Don’t wait until it’s negative-zero degrees outside to wrangle your pup into a sweater for the first time. Instead, consult training methods similar to teaching them how to wear a harness to get them comfortable and cozy (and safe!) this winter.