As frosty temperatures set in across the UK, many pet owners are reaching for coats and jumpers for their four-legged friends to wear while out on winter walks.
But does your pooch really need extra layers to keep warm during the colder months and do they actually enjoy wearing them?
Pet parents love dressing up their furry friends, spending an impressive $5.85B (£4.5B) on pet clothing annually - and as Black Friday approaches, Google searches for 'winter clothes for dogs' has increased by 47 per cent.
Dog owners are especially enthusiastically buying pet clothes for winter, as they assume their pooch might get chilly while out on winter strolls.
However, according to professional dog trainer and behaviourist at Woofz by nove8, Annie-May Levy, not all dogs need or enjoy winter coats - in fact, your pet can be at risk of overheating.
Read on to discover Levy's tips on how to dress your dog for winter walks - and whether you should.
According to Levy, not all breeds of dogs are in need of winter coats or jumpers.
Short-haired breeds, small dogs, and those with low body fat - including Chihuahuas, Whippets, Dachshunds and Greyhounds - are more vulnerable to cold and may benefit from a coat.
According to professional dog trainer and behaviourist at Woofz by nove8, Annie-May Levy, not all dogs need or enjoy winter coats - in fact, your pet can be at risk of overheating
Older and less energetic canines are also more sensitive to cooler temperatures and may benefit from additional warmth.
However, thick-coated breeds, such as Huskies, Chow Chows and German Shepherds, are typically well-prepared to withstand the cold.
Levy has highlighted a range of common physical symptoms that could signify your pooch is too cold, including: shivering, holding up paws and moving slower than usual.
If your dog is displaying these signs, or if it appears they are signalling to return home, it's perhaps the appropriate time to either warm up or cut the walk short.
It's important to look for lightweight, water-resistant and insulated materials that provide warmth without adding bulk, such as lined or padded coats.
Levy added: 'Stretchy fabrics with adjustable straps work best as they allow your dog to move freely while remaining comfortable.'
Levy said: 'Yes, overheating is possible, especially if they're overdressed or the weather warms up unexpectedly.'
Signs that your pooch could be overheating include: increased heart rate, panting, drooling, restlessness, agitation or pacing.
To prevent your dog from overheating, Levy advises to avoid needless layering and stick to a single warm coat.
It's crucial to check under their coat regularly, and if they feel too warm or start panting heavily, remove a layer.
In order to choose a coat or jumper than fits comfortably, ensure you measure your dog's length from head to tail, chest circumference, and neck circumference.
Choose garments with adjustable straps, particularly if your dog's build doesn't fit regular sizes.
Levy added: 'And I suggest avoiding wearing anything excessively tight or that restricts movement as well.'
In order to choose a coat or jumper than fits comfortably, ensure you measure your dog's length from head to tail, chest circumference, and neck circumference (stock image)
According to Levy, boots can efficiently protect sensitive paw pads from snow, ice, salt and grit.
Additionally, snoods and dog scarves can help keep ears and necks warm in cold weather.
However, it's important to make sure these additions are comfortable and safe for your dog and don't interfere with their vision or mobility.