10 Winter Must-Haves That'll Make Your Dog Hate You Less for Taking Them Outside
By: Lizz CaputoKeep your pets cozy and stylish during winter walks! Discover Figo Pet Insurance's top picks for cold-weather gear, from jackets to boots, plus safety tips for freezing temps.
Let's face it – when the mercury drops below zero, getting your pet to venture outside for their bathroom break feels like negotiating with a tiny, furry diplomat who has zero interest in your agenda. And honestly? Can you blame them? But since our beloved companions can't exactly "hold it" forever, we need to make those brief arctic expeditions as cozy as possible. Here's your ultimate guide to keeping your pet both safe and styling during this winter's brutal cold snap.
1. BonGoof Suit Premo
Think of this as your dog's ultimate winter suit of armor. Designed to protect through sleet, snow, rain, and whatever else Mother Nature throws your way. It's thick and insulated to keep even the shortest of fur-covered pups warm. Plus, it looks like it belongs in one of those fun Après Ski viral videos. Strut in style (and supreme warmth) with BonGoof.
2. Little Beast X Rachel Antonoff Puffer Jacket
If it works for the Hadids during New York Fashion Week, it'll work for your pup during potty time. It's both Nylon and Polyester, which gives it some water resistance, but we'd recommend pairing it with some booties and a snood for maximum protection.
3. Floof Soothing Cream
This isn't just about fashion – it's about protection. A good paw balm and nose butter combo will save your pet's sensitive spots from the harsh winter elements. Think of it as their winter skincare routine. Floof's nourishing cream moisturizes and protects irritated, dry paw pads and noses. It can also be used to soothe inflammation and remove tear stains on facial wrinkles. Made with a blend of rich, plant-based oils, their Soothing Cream is vet dermatologist formulated, suitable for all breeds and ages, and made in the USA.
4. Canada Pooch Bestselling Snowsuit
For our low-riding friends (looking at you, Dachshunds and Corgis), a full-body snowsuit is non-negotiable. Their bellies are closer to the snow, and they need that extra coverage. And in deep snow, even the tallest of dogs may need protection. This snowsuit has thermal lining for full body warmth, a water-resistant shell, and adjustable toggle neckline to keep wind and wet weather out. Think of it as their personal sleeping bag with legs.
5. Good Thomas Matching Knit Sweater
If you hate the cold as much as your dog, snag one of these cozy knit sweaters and get your matchy-match on. While they aren't built for snow and sleet, they'll keep you both warm and winter-ready indoors. Made with cotton for comfort and breathability, for every purchase Good Thomas donates to an animal rescue of their choice.
6. Le Pup Dog Snoods
Not familiar with snoods? Think of them as infinity scarves for your pet. They protect ears and necks from windchill, and they make your pet look like they're about to drop the hottest indie album of 2025. Le Pup's sleek dog snoods are made in London using OEKO-TEX® materials, ensuring quality and comfort. Double-layered for extra warmth, they're perfect for cold weather. For short snoods, they serve as ideal neck warmers; for long ones, they offer additional ear protection from noise and cold wind, preventing dry ears.
7. TAVO Pet Stroller
There's a woman on my block who takes her elderly pug out for his daily walks in the cutest pet stroller. Not only does it make me tear up every time (it's beyond cute), but it's truly a genius idea for older pets, pets with mobility issues, or pets who simply can't stand the cold! Tavo's 3-in-1 Pet Protection System is a comfy carrier bed, a stylish pet stroller, and safety-tested car seat, so you can go anywhere together, no matter the weather!
8. Canada Pooch Soft Shield Boots
"But my dog hates boots!" Trust me, they hate frostbitten paws more. The key is finding boots that actually stay on and provide proper grip. Yes, they'll walk like they're wearing invisible flippers at first, but that's just part of their charm. These flexible dog boots are best sellers because they’re easy to put on – and stay on – to help keep your dog’s paws clean and warm in wet, cold weather. These boots also help prevent your dog’s paws from getting dry and itchy from snow salts.
9. Hugo and Hudson Self Heating Dog Thermal
For our extra sensitive pets or those short-haired breeds who run cold, a thermal underlayer is crucial. It's like their personal base layer of armor against the elements. The Hugo & Hudson Thermal Self-Heating Jacket provides warmth for your dog when outdoors or inside. Tricot thermal technology keeps dogs cozy with a soft-shell exterior to protect from wind and water, as well as a stretchy fleece neck for added heat retention. Plus, it's so dang cute!
10. Cave Canem Winter Essentials Bundle
Each piece in Cave Canem's Winter collection is crafted with premium fabrics to provide unmatched warmth, comfort, and protection. Whether it’s a chilly winter stroll, a drizzly day, or a cozy evening indoors, their dapper fits offer the ideal layer for your pup, ensuring they stay stylish, comfortable, and ready for any adventure. Bundle an underlayer and outer layer together for a special winter discount!
Pro Tip: Practice putting on their winter gear inside where it's warm. Treat it like a game, reward them with treats, and soon they'll be running to their winter wardrobe instead of hiding under the bed when they see their boots come out.
Winter pet safety refresher
Let's have a quick review sesh about winter pet safety. Here are some essential tips that'll help you both survive this arctic blast:
Know Their Limits: Just like humans, every pet has different cold tolerances. Your Husky might be living their best life in a snowdrift, while your Chihuahua is giving you the "absolutely not" eyes from under their blanket. Short-coated breeds, seniors, puppies, and pets with health conditions need extra protection and shorter outdoor sessions.
Time Potty Breaks Wisely: Schedule longer walks during the warmest parts of the day (usually between 11 AM and 3 PM) and keep morning and evening bathroom breaks quick and efficient.
Watch for Warning Signs: If your pet is lifting their paws, shivering, acting anxious, or showing any unusual behavior, it's time to head inside. They might not be able to verbalize "I'm cold," but they're definitely trying to tell you.
Indoor Exercise Is Your Friend: Those long, hot-girl winter walks can wait for warmer days. Get creative with indoor activities – hallway fetch, stair runs (supervised, of course), or even a good old-fashioned treat scavenger hunt can keep them physically and mentally stimulated.
Check Those Paws: Salt and ice can be brutal on sensitive paw pads. Always wipe their feet when coming inside – think of it as a post-winter-adventure spa treatment. Check between their toes for any ice buildup or signs of irritation.
Stay Hydrated (Yes, Even in Winter): The dry winter air can dehydrate your pet faster than you'd think. Keep that water bowl full and maybe even consider a pet water fountain for your particularly fancy friend.
Remember, if you're ever in doubt about whether it's too cold, it probably is. There's no shame in declaring an indoor day and turning your living room into a pet paradise. After all, some of the best fashion shows happen at home anyway.
Stay warm out there, pet parents. And remember – spring will come eventually. Until then, we'll be over here coordinating our pets' winter wardrobes and pretending we're all at a very exclusive Arctic fashion show.
Lizz Caputo is the Manager of Content Strategy at Figo, animal enthusiast, and owner of a rescued senior American Bully. Her hobbies include checking out new restaurants in her area, boxing, and petting dogs of all shapes and sizes.
