Whippets may look like elegant little athletes, but anyone who owns one knows just how quickly they can turn into shivery cuddle dogs once the temperature drops.
Their slim build and short coat leave them with almost zero insulation. So, it is no surprise that many parents of these slender pups rely on a Whippet winter coat all season long.
However, the big question most whippet owners end up asking is “Do they really need that layer daily throughout the coldest months?” Well, in this blog, we’ll walk you through what you should know before the winter routines kick in.
| Did you know?
The Whippets have earned nicknames like “Poor Man’s Racehorse” and “Lightning Rag Dog,” due to their incredible speed and graceful build. |
Why Do Whippets Get Cold More Quickly than Other Dogs?
Whippets might look strong and speedy, but their bodies are not designed to handle cold temperatures on their own. Here’s why they get cold so fast:
First, whippets have very little body fat. While that helps them move fast and stay agile, it also means they have little natural insulation to trap heat. And because of their short coat, they get cold faster than other dogs.
They also have long, slender legs and a narrow body, which exposes more surface area to cold air. The more their body is exposed, the faster they get cold.
Moreover, whippets originated as sprinters in milder climates, not as snow-loving alpine dogs. Their metabolism and coat simply never evolved to handle the kind of low temperature many of us experience during winters.
| Surprising Fact!
Whippets are among the fastest dogs of their size, as they can sprint at up to 35 mph. |
When Does a Whippet Need a Winter Coat?
Whippets can start feeling the chill long before you do, so it helps to know when that extra layer becomes necessary. Here are the times when a whippet dog coat really comes in handy:
- When the temperature drops to around 10°C or below.
- Windy days can chill them fast since their short coat does not block cold air well.
- If it is rainy or snowy outside, a coat is needed because damp fur loses heat instantly.
- Early mornings and late evenings are colder times when Whippets usually need extra warmth.
- If they start shivering, slowing down, or picking up their paws, a Whippet winter coat should go on right away.
- Aged Whippets or those who are very slim may need a coat more frequently to stay comfortable.
How Can I Tell If My Whippet is Too Cold?
If you notice any of these signs, it is likely time to warm up with a Whippet dog coat or head indoors:
- Shivering or trembling
- Curling up tightly to conserve heat
- Lifting paws off the ground because the floor feels too cold
- Slowing down or refusing to walk further
- Tucked tail and stiff body posture
- Seeking your arms or trying to climb into your lap for warmth
- Cold ears, nose, or paws when you touch them
- Whining or looking uneasy outside
What Type of Whippet Winter Coat is Best for Daily Use?
When picking a winter coat for your Whippet, choose one with a soft, warm lining, a water-resistant outer layer, and a snug but flexible fit that follows their deep-chested, slim build.
A lightweight coat works for daily walks, while fleece-lined options add warmth on cold, wet days. If you want something made specifically for slender Whippet bodies, you can find great winter coat options at Houndz in the Hood, made to keep them cozy and cute all winter.
The Bottom Line
Whippets may have the sleekest look in the dog world, but that slim build means they feel the cold long before we do. A well-fitting winter coat helps them stay warm, enjoy their walks, and avoid those shivery moments none of us like to see. When they stay warm, they stay confident, playful, and totally ready for all those zoomies all season long.
