7 Clear Signs Your Dog is Feeling Cold & Needs a Sweater
Winter mornings in India can be chilly, especially in cities like Delhi, Gurgaon, Shimla, or Bangalore, where temperatures dip sharply. While we naturally reach for sweaters and blankets, many pet parents wonder: does my dog feel the cold too? The truth is, just like us, dogs can experience discomfort, joint stiffness, and even health risks when the weather gets too cold.
Not all dogs will need extra layers, but there are clear signals your pup might be struggling to stay warm. Here are seven signs to look out for and what you can do to keep your dog snug and safe this winter.
1. Shivering or Trembling
The most obvious sign that your dog is cold is shivering. Just like humans, dogs tremble to generate body heat when they’re chilly. If your pup starts to shake during walks or even indoors, it’s a strong signal they’re feeling too cold and need help staying warm.
👉 Pro tip: If shivering happens regularly on morning or evening walks, it’s time to introduce a dog sweater or sweatshirt for added protection.
2. Curling Into a Tight Ball
Dogs often curl into a tight little donut shape when they sleep. While it can simply be a cozy resting position, if your dog consistently avoids stretching out and stays tightly curled for long periods, they may be conserving body heat.
👉 Pro tip: A soft sweatshirt can help them relax and stretch comfortably without feeling cold.
3. Reluctance to Go Outdoors
Suddenly struggling to convince your dog to step out for a walk? That’s not just laziness, cold weather can make dogs reluctant to leave their warm spot indoors.
If bathroom breaks, walks, or outdoor playtime suddenly become a battle, it’s worth considering that the chill in the air is to blame.
👉 Pro tip: A cozy dog sweater or jacket makes outdoor time more enjoyable and stress-free.
4. Cold Ears, Paws, or Nose
Here’s a quick home test: touch your dog’s ears and paws. If they feel noticeably cold to the touch, your pup may not be retaining enough body heat. The extremities are the first parts to lose warmth.
👉 Pro tip: Combine a sweater with limited outdoor exposure on freezing mornings to prevent cold stress.
5. Low Energy or Sleeping More
Cold weather can sap energy. If your usually playful pup suddenly seems sluggish, uninterested in toys, or is sleeping more than usual, it might not be laziness — they may simply be chilled.
👉 Pro tip: Comfortable sweaters and sweatshirts for dogs can help maintain normal energy levels by keeping their body temperature stable.
6. Whining or Restlessness at Night
Dogs that are cold often struggle to find a comfortable sleeping position. They may whine, pace, or try to burrow under blankets at night. Restlessness is a strong sign your pet isn’t cozy enough.
👉 Pro tip: Dress them in a breathable sweatshirt for bedtime, especially if you live in a draughty home or a city where nights get very cold.
7. Senior Dogs Struggling with Stiffness
Older pets or those with arthritis feel stiffer and achier when the temperature drops. Just like elderly humans, cold weather can aggravate joint pain.
👉 Pro tip: A snug dog sweater can make a huge difference in keeping joints warm and easing discomfort.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
If your dog shows any of the above signals, here’s how you can help:
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Provide a warm sleeping spot: Avoid placing your dog’s bed near windows, doors, or tiles that get cold.
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Limit exposure: Shorten early morning/evening walks in extreme cold.
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Dress smartly: Choose a dog sweater or sweatshirt that is soft, breathable, and easy to wear.
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Check for fit: A good fit is snug but not tight. Always refer to a dog sweater size guide before buying.
👉 Lana Paws sweaters and sweatshirts are designed with Indian dogs in mind – lightweight, breathable fabrics that keep Indies, Beagles, Labradors, and other breeds warm without overheating.
FAQs About Dogs & Cold Weather
Q: Can dogs get sick from cold weather?
Yes. Extended exposure to cold can cause hypothermia, respiratory illnesses, or joint stiffness, especially in puppies, seniors, and small breeds.
Q: Should dogs wear sweaters while sleeping?
If your home is chilly at night or your dog tends to whine or shiver in bed, a soft, breathable sweatshirt is perfectly safe. Avoid very thick layers indoors.
Q: How do I know if my Indie dog needs a sweater?
Indies typically have short to medium coats. If they show signs of shivering, reluctance to go out, or cold ears/paws, they’ll benefit from a sweater.
Q: What’s the difference between a dog feeling cold and being sick?
Cold stress shows as shivering, curling up, or reluctance to go out. Illness often comes with other symptoms like coughing, nasal discharge, vomiting, or loss of appetite. When in doubt, consult a vet.
Conclusion
If your dog is shivering, curling up tightly, or refusing to go out, it’s a clear sign they’re feeling the cold. Just like us, dogs deserve comfort in winter.
The good news? A well-fitted, skin-friendly sweater or sweatshirt can make your dog feel cozy, energetic, and happy — no more shivers or restless nights.
👉 Keep your pup snug this winter with Lana Paws sweaters & sweatshirts — designed for India’s winters, with love for Indies and every breed.
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