Do Belgian Malinois Need Clothes? It’s a question many Malinois owners ask when winter or rain rolls around. These agile herding dogs have a short, double coat, so they handle many outdoor conditions better than a hairless pup or a thin-coated breed.
In fact, Malinois fur is described as “weather-resistant” on the outside with a warm undercoat, and healthy adults can usually tolerate mild cold and snow. However, they aren’t built for Arctic-level cold, and prolonged exposure to severe weather can be risky.
Experts note that fit adult Malinois can handle down to about 20°F (–6°C) for short periods, but once temperatures drop below freezing or the dog gets wet, it’s wise to add an extra layer. So, do Belgian Malinois need clothes? Not all the time – but in certain conditions they certainly can benefit from jackets or coats.
Belgian Malinois are naturally tough and high-energy, which helps them generate body heat during exercise. Still, owners should monitor weather conditions. Long exposure to cold, wet weather can lead to hypothermia or illness. The breed site points out that if your Malinois’ body temperature falls below 99°F (37.2°C), it’s a sign of hypothermia.
Wet fur can also stress your dog’s system. Veterinarians warn that cold, damp air can lead to serious respiratory problems like pneumonia in dogs. In other words, keeping your dog warm and dry isn’t just about comfort – it’s about health. A good waterproof coat “will mean a lot for their health,” the Malinois blog notes, likening a rainy walk without a coat to walking outside in the rain without an umbrella.
When Should You Dress Your Malinois?
A Belgian Malinois doesn’t need a sweater for every walk – their own coat protects them in normal cool weather. But there are times when an extra layer helps. Here are key conditions when Belgian Malinois may benefit from wearing clothes:
- Cold or Freezing Temperatures: When the mercury dips below around 20°F (–6°C), even a Malinois can start to feel it]. Outdoor play should be very brief if windchill is under 20°F. In those conditions, a warm dog jacket can keep them cozy and prevent shivering or hypothermia.
- Heavy Rain or Snow: Malinois fur is somewhat water-resistant, but in driving rain or wet snow they will still get soaked. A waterproof raincoat keeps the dog’s coat dry and blocks cold rain from soaking the skin. This prevents chills and “wet dog” odor, since the jacket stops water from saturating the fur. If you want to neutralize a wet dog smell, our recommendation is to apply a few drops of lavender essential oil on the coat. Eucalyptus oil can also give a dog wonderful scent after walking in the rain.
- Very Windy Conditions: A strong wind can drive cold air through the coat and pull body heat away. A windproof layer helps block that wind. Coats labeled “windproof” or with a tight weave offer extra protection, as in the Malinois Rain-Proof Ruffwear, which is both windproof and waterproof.
- Puppies, Senior Dogs, or Shaved Dogs: Young puppies and elderly Malinois get cold faster than prime adults. If your Malinois has been shaved or has a thinner coat for any reason, he’ll have less natural insulation. For these dogs, even moderately chilly weather can cause discomfort. In such cases it’s better to be safe and put on a warm coat.
- Long Outdoor Activities: If you’re taking your Malinois on long hikes, camping in winter, or extended play in the snow, a coat is wise. Active dogs can generate heat, but when they stop to rest they cool quickly. A lightweight jacket can keep them from getting chilled during breaks.
- After Baths or Swimming: Even on a warm day, a wet Malinois can lose heat quickly once he stops moving. Towel off fully, and consider a drying jacket if he’ll be outside again soon (the Ruff Weather coat has a warm cotton lining which helps him dry off and stay warm).
As you can see, the answer to “Do Belgian Malinois Need Clothes?” usually depends on the weather, activity level, and your dog’s individual tolerance.
Can Belgian Malinois Live Outside?
Well, not always. Unlike northern breeds like Huskies, Malinois don’t have heavy insulation. If they spend a lot of time in too cold or too hot weather, it can put them at risk of hypothermia or heatstroke. Belgian Malinois should have a proper shelter where they can rest, chill, and sleep in case of extreme temperatures. Besides, they should not spend a lot of time in rain or snow because it can make them vulnerable to cold, pneumonia, and other issues.
How to Measure Your Malinois for a Coat
If you decide your Malinois could use a jacket, the next step is getting the right size. An ill-fitting coat won’t keep your dog warm or could rub uncomfortably. Always measure carefully before buying.
Follow these steps to measure your dog:
- Back Length (Topline): Have your Malinois stand on all fours. Measure along the top of his spine from the base of the neck (where the collar sits) to the base of the tail. This gives the jacket length it needs to cover most of the back.
- Chest Girth: Wrap the tape measure around the widest part of his ribcage, just behind the front legs. This is often the largest circumference; make sure the tape is snug but not tight (you should be able to slip two fingers under the tape).
- Neck Circumference: Measure around the base of his neck where the collar normally sits. Again, use the two-finger rule to keep it comfortable.
Tip: Always measure your dog while he is standing and relaxed. If he’s between sizes on a brand’s chart, lean toward the larger size (it’s better to have a slightly loose coat than one that squeezes).
Recommended Jackets for Belgian Malinois
If you’re convinced that your Malinois could use some doggy apparel, here are two breed-specific options that fit the bill:
- Ruff Weather Belgian Malinois Jacket – A heavy-duty winter coat designed for Malinois. It’s made of fully waterproof material with a warm cotton-fleece lining. In other words, it keeps your Malinois dry in rain or snow and warm in the cold. Reflective straps improve nighttime visibility. It comes in colors like black and red, and sizes from XS to XL. Just be sure to measure your dog carefully – the product page even reminds you to do so before ordering. Owners appreciate that it’s adjustable for a perfect fit.
- Malinois Rain-Proof Ruffwear – A versatile all-weather jacket built for medium-to-large dogs (sizes 2XL to 6XL). This one is also waterproof and windproof, made from a cotton/fleece blend. It’s described as lightweight and machine-washable, so it won’t feel bulky on your dog. According to the manufacturer, it “ensuring that your pup stays cozy and dry even in the rainiest of days”. Plus it has reflective accents like the Ruff Weather coat. If you need something primarily for rain protection (lighter weight), this is a great choice.
Both jackets are built to handle wet and cold weather while fitting the Malinois body shape. They even look cool on these working dogs.
Conclusion
So, do Belgian Malinois need clothes? The answer is: sometimes, yes. In moderate weather they usually don’t – their double coat handles many conditions on its own. But in extreme weather, the right clothing can be a big help. Warm, waterproof dog coats protect your Malinois from rain, snow, and bitter cold, keeping him comfortable and healthy. They prevent the coat from getting soaked (and smelling!) and guard against hypothermia or chills. The AKC even advises that coats may be needed in very cold conditions, especially for puppies or seniors.
If you live in a region with harsh winters or wet seasons, it’s wise to have a sturdy Malinois-sized jacket on hand. Just remember to measure your dog carefully and choose a high-quality coat (like the two recommended above) that is truly waterproof. That way, going outside remains fun for both of you – and you won’t have to worry, “Do Belgian Malinois Need Clothes?” as long as you dress them appropriately, they’ll be happy to romp in any weather.
Read also: What are the Best Collars for Belgian Malinois?
What Is the Best Harness For a Belgian Malinois Puppy? 5 Picks
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