German Shepherd · winter guide
Do German Shepherds Need Coats?
Usually not. German Shepherds have a thick double coat and handle the cold well; a coat helps only below 20 °F (−7 °C) or in wet, icy weather.
Handles the cold wellCoat only below 20 °F (−7 °C)
What a German Shepherd needs
Enter today’s temperature for the answer right now.
Best-selling winter coats
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Louis Pawtton Monogram Designer Dog Winter Coat
Original price was: $75.50.$59.00Current price is: $59.00. -
Dogcler Puffer Dog Jacket For Winter
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Furry Fluffy Dog Winter Coat
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Dress for the weather
Why German Shepherds handle the cold
A German Shepherd weighs 50–90 lb (23–41 kg) and has a double, medium coat (AKC breed page). A thick double coat traps warm air against the skin like a down jacket, and a dog of this size keeps its heat far longer than a small one. Puppies, seniors and dogs with a clipped coat are the exception.
German Shepherd winter temperature guide
| Feels like | What your dog needs |
|---|---|
| Above 20 °F (−7 °C) | No coat needed |
| Below 20 °F (−7 °C) | A coat for long or wet walks; protect the paws from ice and salt |
| Rain, sleet or wet snow | A raincoat keeps the undercoat dry |
Wind and wet fur make it feel colder; enter today’s weather in the calculator above to see the answer for right now. The bands follow PetMD’s cold weather guidance and the US National Weather Service wind chill.
What should a German Shepherd wear?
Most days nothing at all. For long walks in deep cold, sleet or road salt a raincoat keeps the undercoat dry and winter dog boots protect the paws.
German Shepherds and cold weather: FAQ
At what temperature does a German Shepherd need a coat?
Usually not. German Shepherds have a thick double coat and handle the cold well; a coat helps only below 20 °F (−7 °C) or in wet, icy weather.
Can German Shepherds stay outside in winter?
They tolerate cold well, but no dog should be left outside unattended in freezing weather without shelter, water and a way inside.
What size coat does a German Shepherd wear?
It depends on the dog, not only the breed: measure the chest, back length and neck. Our size guide saves your dog’s measurements and shows the size that fits on every coat.
