The first truly cold mornings have arrived. Breath turns to mist, sidewalks stay frosty until noon, and some dogs start tugging toward home halfway through the walk.

Not every dog needs a coat, but many do. Here is a simple way to decide, plus a few habits that keep winter walks warm, dry and comfortable all season.

Does your dog need a coat?

A dog’s need for a coat depends on size, coat type, age and health. These dogs usually benefit from an extra layer:

• Small and toy breeds, which lose body heat quickly.
• Dogs with short, thin or single-layer coats.
• Lean dogs with little body fat.
• Puppies, senior dogs and dogs with health conditions.
• Dogs that have just been groomed or clipped short.

Climate matters too. Wind, wet snow and long waits at crosswalks can chill even a sturdy dog on a New York winter morning.

Thick, double-coated breeds often stay comfortable without one. When in doubt, ask your veterinarian what is right for your dog.

Watch for signs your dog is cold

Dogs tell us when they are chilly. Learn the signals and head home early when you see them.

• Shivering or trembling.
• Lifting paws off the ground, or walking with a hunched back.
• Slowing down, stopping, or trying to turn back.
• Seeking warm spots or burrowing into blankets once inside.

Cold tolerance can change with age. A dog who loved snow at three may need a jacket at ten.

Choose a coat that fits and stays on

A good coat covers the back and chest without limiting movement. Measure your dog’s chest, neck and back length before you shop, and check the size chart.

Our Black Winter Parka has a luxurious velboa lining and faux-fur trim at the neck. The hood is detachable, so your dog can wear it with or without. If your dog is between sizes, we recommend sizing up. It is made in South Korea, and sizes are limited, so check availability.

• Your dog should walk, sit and lie down easily.
• You should be able to slide a couple of fingers under the neck and chest.
• Watch for rubbing behind the front legs on the first few walks.

Plan shorter, more frequent walks

On the coldest days, two or three short walks are often better than one long one. Your dog still gets exercise and sniffing time without getting chilled.

• Walk during the warmest part of the day when you can.
• Avoid frozen ponds and icy edges.
• Keep your dog leashed in snow, where familiar scents are harder to follow home.
• Make up for shorter walks with indoor play, training games or a puzzle toy.

Keep coats dry, clean and ready

A damp coat loses its warmth. Dry your dog fully before dressing, and hang the coat to dry after wet or snowy walks.

Keep a Bamboo Bath Towel . Home is by the door. It is a thick bamboo and cotton blend that absorbs water fast, in a natural beige that is not chemically bleached. It comes in Medium (20 by 39 inches) and Large (24 by 47 inches), and it is washer and dryer safe.

After walks on treated sidewalks, wipe paws and the belly to remove salt and de-icer. Hand wash the parka in cold water and hang it to dry.

Give winter layers a home

Coats, sweaters, leashes and towels pile up fast in winter. A dedicated spot by the door makes getting ready quicker, and the coat dries in the open air.

The Mini Pet Clothing Rack is made of powder-coated steel with clean, straight lines. At 23.6 by 23.6 inches, it holds your pet’s outfits and outerwear, and the small bottom box keeps wipes or folded clothes close at hand. Hangers are sold separately.

One more tip: take the coat off once you are back inside. Dogs can overheat in a warm apartment while still dressed for the street.

Shop the post

• Black Winter Parka — $72
• Bamboo Bath Towel . Home is — from $12
• Mini Pet Clothing Rack — $249

Stay warm out there. Enjoy free shipping on orders over $75 to the continental U.S. on most items.