My Greyhound Space

Why are Greyhound coats so important? The answer to this is obvious when you look at the physical make-up of the "Grey".

Firstly, they have less fat to insulate them from the extremes of temperature. Secondly, they don't possess the thick fur found on most breeds of dog. The result of this is a dog that can suffer from hypothermia in cold weather and of course, hyperthermia when the sun is strong.

It has to be said that, like humans, Greyhounds vary in their sensitivity to temperature changes. Greyhound coats ensure your dog is able to cope. Another aspect of this is to compare their situation to humans. We can tolerate extremes of temperature very well indeed, but, we're far more comfortable if we're appropriately dressed for the prevailing weather. The older or weaker human can perish if not protected from extreme weather.

So, what is needed to afford your Greyhound the necessary protection?

A good warm and waterproof winter coat is essential. To not give such a sensitive dog this basic item is downright cruel. Your dog may not drop dead, but it will be very uncomfortable without one. The difference between surviving something and being comfortable must be appreciated.

Other Greyhound coats include light waterproof types for showery, warm weather. Many of these will fold up nicely and fit in a bag or pocket. Remember, a cold dog is one thing, a cold wet dog is something else again.

What about hot sunshine?

Here we have an altogether different issue to address. The problems relate to the colour of the dog. A white Greyhound - or any other dog for that matter - can be badly burned as they tend to have areas of exposed pale skin. If your dog is likely to be affected the nose and any other vulnerable areas should be watched and the necessary sun block applied if needed, as Greyhound coats can only cover the body.

Black and other dark coloured dogs absorb heat. There's no argument, black absorbs heat, white reflects, it's basic physics we all learned at school.

There are now reflective Greyhound coats available. These are great as they are a dual purpose garment. The UK isn't unique in having extremely changeable weather, so a "be prepared for anything" approach is required. Fortunately, reflective coats are wind and waterproof as well as being able to reflect the suns heat.

They really do keep a dog cool. Try this if you ever see a lucky Greyhound whose caring owner has kitted out for the sunshine. Having sought the owners permission, feel the top of it's head, then slide your hand under the coat. You will be amazed at the difference in temperature.

Of course, none of this means you should neglect the other aspects of dog ownership, fresh water must always be available and if it is unbearably hot, both you and your dog will be better off in the cool somewhere.

There's never been a better selection of Greyhound coats available.