Do Dog Jackets Really Work to Keep Dogs Calm?

Dog jackets have been touted as a solution for anxious or stressed dogs, but do they really work? Many owners swear by them, but what's behind the science? Studies have shown that pressure therapy, a common feature in dog jackets, can have a calming effect on dogs.

Some dog jackets use a combination of pressure and heat to help calm dogs. For example, the Thundershirt, a popular dog jacket, uses gentle pressure to provide a sense of security and comfort.

But how do dog jackets compare to other calming aids? Research suggests that they can be just as effective as pheromone diffusers and calming treats.

A different take: Do Calming Dog Treats Work

Dog jackets can be a lifesaver for dogs that live in cold climates or have a thick coat that sheds heavily.

Research shows that dog jackets can reduce heat loss by up to 50% in dogs with thick coats.

Some dog jackets are designed to be breathable, allowing for airflow and moisture-wicking properties to keep dogs cool and dry.

ThunderShirt's four-step guide and photos helped figure out how to get a secure swaddle the first time around.

The manual recommends a gradual introduction for pets, starting by setting the shirt on the ground with a treat on top to create a positive association.

Putting the shirt on multiple times before events that might spook them, such as fireworks or storm season, also helped pets get used to it.

Siri, a cat tester, initially showed a deer-in-the-headlights response to wearing the ThunderShirt, but it diminished over time.

With the shirt on, Moss noticed that her cat seemed to calm down and didn't run off like she had before.

ThunderShirts also look pretty sporty, similar to vests worn by racing greyhounds.

After several rounds in the washing machine, those Velcro strips have not lost their grip.

See what others are reading: I Want a Dog but I Work All Day

Dogs who have trouble generating and maintaining body heat on their own may need sweaters or coats during cold weather.

Smaller dogs, especially Chihuahuas, typically have less body fat and are closer to the cold ground, often necessitating a jacket for warmth.

Dogs with short hair or single coats, like Greyhounds, may require clothing during cold weather due to their thin body types.

Older dogs with compromised immune systems or endocrine issues that result in thinned coats, like those with Cushing's disease or hypothyroidism, may also need sweaters for warmth.

Large breed dogs with thick coats, like Bernese Mountain, Saint Bernard, and Siberian Huskies, do not require extra insulation from a coat or a sweater in the winter.

Dogs with shorter legs, like Corgis, Basset Hounds, and Dachshunds, benefit from the protection of a warm winter coat because their bellies can get coated with snow.

You may also want to consider getting a winter coat for your dog based on their age, as older dogs may have more difficulty regulating their body heat.

ThunderShirt is the only calming vest brand that has been used in scientific studies and surveys, which is a good starting point if you're considering one. The ThunderShirt brand has been used in studies that show promising results, such as a decrease in heart rate and signs of anxiety in dogs.

Only the ThunderShirt brand has been extensively tested, and similar vests from other companies might not work in the same way. This is something to keep in mind when shopping for a calming vest.

The ThunderShirt vest should be snug but not tight, and it's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions. The vest should be a relaxing experience for your dog, not a source of anxiety.

The ThunderShirt vest has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety in dogs, with a nearly 82 percent success rate in owner-reported surveys. This is a significant improvement compared to other solutions, such as environmental management and drugs.

A fresh viewpoint: Dog Flea Medicine Not Working

Small toy breed dogs or dogs with short hair coats, like those with naturally thin coats or those that have been groomed to be short-haired, may need a jacket for warmth.

Smaller dogs typically have less body fat and are closer to the cold ground, making a jacket essential to keep them warm.

Dogs with compromised immune systems, like older dogs, may also require a jacket to prevent them from getting cold.

Large breed dogs with thick coats, like Bernese Mountain dogs, don't need extra insulation from a coat or sweater in the winter.

These breeds have evolved to have thick insular coats that keep them warm in colder climates, so putting a jacket on them could cause them to overheat.

You might like: Dog Jacket Fit

Dog jackets are a popular accessory for pet owners, but do they really work? Let's dive into some practical considerations.

In most cases, dog jackets are designed to provide warmth, but they can also be used to manage a dog's temperature in extreme weather conditions. It's not uncommon for dog jackets to have a temperature rating, but this can vary depending on the brand and type of jacket.

If you live in a cold climate, a well-insulated dog jacket can be a lifesaver for your furry friend. In fact, studies have shown that dogs can lose up to 70% of their body heat through their coats, so a good jacket can make a huge difference.

However, not all dog jackets are created equal, and some may be more suited to certain breeds or sizes of dogs. For example, smaller dogs may require a jacket with a more fitted design to prevent it from getting in the way.

In terms of practicality, dog jackets can be a bit of a hassle to put on and take off, especially for dogs that are not used to wearing them. However, many dog jackets now come with magnetic closures or Velcro straps that make it easier to get your dog in and out of the jacket.

Ultimately, whether or not a dog jacket works for your pet will depend on your individual circumstances and the specific needs of your dog.

For more insights, see: Dog Life Jacket Golden Retriever

I've had the chance to test out a dog jacket, the ThunderShirt, and I can say it's been a game-changer for my anxious pup, Lulu.

I give it three out of four paws. It's definitely worth considering for pets that struggle with anxiety.

Long car rides, which used to be a nightmare for Lulu, are now a bit more tolerable thanks to her ThunderShirt.

We've even donated Lulu's original ThunderShirt to a rescue pooch that suffered from separation anxiety, and it's helped him too.

Here are some other natural remedies for anxious dogs that you might find helpful: