Whippet Clothes Guide › Do Whippets Need Coats?
From Houndz in the Hood, based on the fitting notes of founder Terri Goodwillie, who has made breed-fitted dog clothes in New York City since 1999. Updated October 2026.
Short answer: yes. Most Whippets need warm clothes whenever it is cool outside, and many need a layer indoors too. A Whippet’s slim shape, long legs and low body fat mean it gets cold quickly, and the most useful thing you can do is cover the legs as well as the body. That is why we recommend a four-leg bodysuit rather than a coat.
Why Whippets get cold so quickly
- Low body fat. A lean sighthound build leaves little insulation under the skin.
- A slim, tall frame. There is a lot of body surface for the amount of dog.
- Long legs. Bare legs lose heat on every walk. Covering the legs, especially in winter, helps a Whippet stay much warmer.
- A deep chest and high tuck. The chest and belly sit close to cold air, wet grass and snow.
Whippets can feel the chill indoors as well, in a cool house, an air-conditioned room or a car. That is why the Whippet line has clothes for every season, not just for winter walks.
Signs your Whippet is cold
- Shivering or trembling, even on short walks
- Refusing to go outside, or rushing back to the door
- Lifting paws or hunching up
- Curling up tight or burrowing under blankets indoors
If you see these signs, your dog needs more coverage, not just a thicker layer on the back.
Why a bodysuit, not a coat
A coat covers the back and sides. On a Whippet that leaves the chest, belly and all four legs bare, and those are exactly the places a Whippet loses heat. A four-leg bodysuit covers the chest, belly and all four legs. Ours stretch to go on, with no velcro, zippers or clasps, have a discreet opening on the back for a harness or leash, and are cut to allow all bodily functions. Because the legs hold the suit in place, it stays put when your Whippet runs.
That is why a bodysuit is always our recommendation, whatever the weather. Match the fabric to the day:
- Fall and spring, or all winter where winters are mild: Indoor/Outdoor Bodysuits ($70), which can be worn inside too
- Cold, windy winter walks: Heavy Fleece Bodysuits ($84)
- Wind and snow into the 20s: Windblock Fleece Bodysuits ($90)
- Below 35°F with a hood: Extra Heavy Fleece Hooded Bodysuits ($95)
- Strong wind and snow, 25°F to 10°F: Extra Heavy Windblock Fleece Hooded Bodysuits ($105)
Sweaters and sweatshirts can be handy extras around the house, but for keeping a Whippet warm outside, the bodysuit is the better choice.
See how cold is too cold for a Whippet for the full temperature guide.
Ready to find your Whippet’s fit?
Browse all Whippet clothes, check the Whippet sizing guide, or send us your dog’s measurements (or email admin@houndzinthehood.com) and we’ll help you choose.
Frequently asked questions
Do Whippets need coats?
Most do. Whippets have a slim shape, long legs and low body fat, so they get cold quickly. A four-leg bodysuit that covers the chest, belly and legs is the better choice than a coat, which leaves those areas bare.
Do Whippets need clothes indoors?
Many do in a cool house, air-conditioning or the car. Jammies are made for sleeping and lounging, Rompers for air-conditioning and travel, and the Indoor/Outdoor Bodysuit can be worn inside and out. Heavy, Windblock and Extra Heavy fleece are for outside only.
Why does my Whippet shiver?
Low body fat and long, bare legs give a Whippet little insulation, so it feels the cold quickly. Shivering on walks is a common sign your dog needs more coverage, such as a bodysuit that covers the legs.