A while ago I posted about how to improve my sheltie's coat. I read about how winter can really help coat come in. The only problem is that we heat with wood, so our house gets nice and toasty in the winter. Has anyone seen substantial improvement in their sheltie's coat during the winter? My sheltie doesn't have an undercoat- is it possible he could develop one during the winter? Some of you mentioned that your shelties spend a lot of time outside during the winter- how long should mine spend outside if his coat is going to improve? Advice appreciated. Thanks!
Winter Coat
- Thread starter Kelsey
- Start date
BarbV
Forums Celebrity
How old is your pup? And where do you live (i.e. what is your climate?) Pictures would help.
For some dogs, it can take up to 3-5 years to actually develop the full coat. Some dogs will never develop a full undercoat, but that's pure genetics.
Weather does play a factor, but I think not so much with our current breeding lines.
I've seen Shelties born and bred in Southern Cal with gorgeous full coats. And I've seen Shelties in the Great White North with very short coats.
And sometimes it depends on the dog. My Bacca bulks up when winter is coming. Indy pretty much stays the same.
For some dogs, it can take up to 3-5 years to actually develop the full coat. Some dogs will never develop a full undercoat, but that's pure genetics.
Weather does play a factor, but I think not so much with our current breeding lines.
I've seen Shelties born and bred in Southern Cal with gorgeous full coats. And I've seen Shelties in the Great White North with very short coats.
And sometimes it depends on the dog. My Bacca bulks up when winter is coming. Indy pretty much stays the same.
sable
Forums Enthusiast
How long in the winter do they stay out? Lady loves the cold weather, and Lucky used to, but he is 10. Lady will lay right in the white stuff. I let them out for short periods in the winter, Lady doesn't have the sense to come in when we go into a deep freeze, so I have to call her in.
Yep genes has alot to do with it. Lady and Lucky are both like their sires.
Brushing often helps also.
Yep genes has alot to do with it. Lady and Lucky are both like their sires.
Brushing often helps also.
BarbV
Forums Celebrity
Miles is three, and we live in Syracuse, NY- one of the cities with the worst winters in the US.How do you upload pics on this site?
Since you are not a premium member (and i encourage you to become one, btw), the easiest way is to post your photos on facebook, flickr, photobucket, etc and just copy the link over.
I live in Ottawa, Ontario, and our claim to fame is to be one the harshest winter capitals of the world. So I share your pain!