Long Back for Dachshunds and Co.

Dog Clothing for Dogs with Long Backs

Dachshunds and other dogs with comparatively long backs often require a dog jacket specifically tailored to their body shape. With regular dog clothing, either the back length or the chest girth may not fit: if the jacket fits around the chest, it may be too short on the back. Conversely, if it reaches the base of the tail, it may fall too loosely around the chest and belly.

The WOLTERS dog clothing in the 'Long Back' cut takes these special proportions into account. The models have an adapted back length and are intended for dogs whose bodies are long and relatively slim in relation to their chest girth.

Dog Jackets for Dachshunds and Similar Body Shapes

The 'Long Back' cut is particularly suitable for Dachshunds. Depending on the individual measurements, it may also be suitable for other breeds and mixed breeds with an elongated, slim build.

However, the breed alone does not determine the correct size and fit. Even within a breed, back length, chest girth, neck size, and body build can vary significantly. Therefore, always measure your dog carefully and compare their measurements with the size chart of the respective model.

If your dog has a long back and simultaneously a robust chest, a different cut may fit better. It is crucial that both back length and chest girth correspond with the sizing chart of the chosen jacket.

Why Do Dachshunds Need a Special Cut?

Dachshunds typically have a long body, relatively short legs, and a rather narrow chest and belly area. A normally cut dog jacket may end too soon on the back or fit too loosely around the belly if it is of sufficient length.

A jacket that is too short does not adequately cover the lower back area. Conversely, a jacket that is too wide may shift or stick out during movement. Additionally, longer belly sections can come into contact with dirt and moisture more quickly in short-legged dogs.

An appropriate cut should cover the back without extending beyond the base of the tail or restricting natural movement. At the same time, the clothing must fit securely around the chest and belly without squeezing or chafing.

Rain Jackets for Dogs with Long Backs

A lightweight rain jacket protects your dog's body in wet and windy weather. Particularly for short-legged dogs, the belly and chest are closer to the ground and can come into contact with splashes, wet grass, or dirt during walks more quickly.

Depending on the model, adjustable areas at the neck, belly, or back hem allow for additional fitting to the body. Reflective elements can enhance visibility in twilight and darkness, but they do not replace additional lighting.

When selecting, pay attention to the waterproof specifications. A water-repellent jacket is suitable for different weather conditions than a model with a waterproof membrane and specified water column.

Warm Dog Jackets for Dachshunds

Small and short-haired dogs can get cold more quickly at low temperatures. This is particularly true during slow walks, longer breaks, or when the weather is damp and cold. A padded quilted or winter jacket can offer additional protection.

How much warmth your dog actually needs depends on coat type, undercoat, age, health condition, activity level, and outside temperature. Not every Dachshund and not every dog with a long back automatically requires a heavily insulated winter jacket.

Observe your dog during the walk. Shivering, a tense body posture, raised paws, or a clear desire to abort the walk can indicate that they are cold. On the other hand, heavy panting or restlessness can be signs that the chosen clothing is too warm.

What Size Does Your Dog Need?

For size selection, back length and chest girth are especially important. Depending on the model, neck size should also be considered. Use a flexible measuring tape and measure your dog while standing straight.

The back length is measured from the shoulder blades to the base of the tail. The measuring tape should run straight along the back. The jacket must be long enough to cover the back but should not extend beyond the base of the tail or hinder the tail in its natural position.

Measure the chest girth behind the front legs at the widest part of the ribcage. Keep the measuring tape snug against the body without pulling tight. Then compare both values with the product-specific size chart.

How Dog Clothing Should Fit

A suitable dog jacket should sit close to the body without causing pressure points. Your dog should be able to move, sit, and lie down without restriction. In particular, the clothing should not chafe around the neck, chest, belly, and behind the front legs.

After putting on the jacket, check whether it shifts sideways or slips forward or backward on the back. Velcro fasteners, belly straps, and drawstrings should be securely closed but should not constrict the body.

Observe your dog carefully during the first walks. An unusually stiff gait, frequent scratching at the jacket, or attempts to shake it off may indicate an unsuitable size or fit.

Dog Jackets for Harness Wearers

Many dogs with long backs wear a harness when out for a walk. Selected dog jackets therefore have a closure opening in the back area, through which the lead can connect with the harness worn underneath.

Ensure that the opening is positioned above the attachment ring of the harness and that the jacket is not pulled upwards when leash is attached. The harness and jacket must fit together without shifting or putting pressure on the back.

Before each walk, check that the lead, harness, and attachment ring are securely connected. An opening in the dog jacket does not replace a check of the harness worn underneath.

Which Dog Jacket Suits Which Weather?

A lightweight rain jacket without warming lining is suitable for mild rainy days. In cool and changeable weather, a transitional or outdoor jacket with a light inner lining may be practical. For cold winter days, more heavily insulated models are available.

In addition to temperature, consider wind, precipitation, activity level, and duration of the walk. A dog that is continuously moving generates more body heat than a dog that frequently stops or waits outside.

Dog clothing should be removed after the walk. In heated indoor areas, heat can build up quickly under a padded jacket.

Proper Care of Dog Clothing

Dirt and moisture can impair the function and comfort of a dog jacket. Remove light dirt after the walk with a damp cloth or a soft brush.

When machine washing, always pay attention to the care instructions for the respective model. Many WOLTERS dog jackets can be cleaned on a gentle cycle. Use the recommended detergent and avoid products that are not suitable according to the care instructions.

Before washing, close Velcro and zippers. Afterwards, allow the jacket to air dry completely and regularly check seams, fasteners, elastic bands, and leash openings for damage.

Buy Dog Clothing for Long Backs at WOLTERS

Whether a Dachshund or another dog with an elongated and slim build: at WOLTERS, you will find selected dog clothing in the 'Long Back' cut. Depending on the weather and temperature, lightweight rain jackets, warming quilted jackets, and padded outdoor and winter jackets are available.

Carefully measure your dog's back length, chest girth, and, if applicable, neck size, and refer to the size chart of the respective model. This way, you will find a dog jacket that adequately covers the long back and sits comfortably on the body.