Whippets, greyhounds and other sighthounds feel the cold more than many other dog breeds. Their short coats, low body fat and lean build mean they lose heat quickly, especially during colder months, windy walks or chilly nights indoors.
Because of this, many owners find themselves asking the same question:
Does my whippet need a jumper, a waterproof coat or pyjamas?
The answer depends entirely on when and where your dog is feeling cold.
A fleece jumper helps provide lightweight everyday warmth indoors or during cooler weather. Waterproof coats are designed to protect against rain, wind and freezing outdoor temperatures. Pyjamas are ideal for night-time comfort, colder homes and dogs that struggle to stay warm while resting or sleeping.
Understanding the difference helps you choose the right option first time while keeping your dog comfortable throughout the year.
Whippets and greyhounds are also built very differently from many other breeds. Their deep chest, slim waist and curved back often make standard dog clothing twist, slip or fit poorly, which is why proper sizing and sighthound-specific fit matters so much.
If you are unsure how to measure your dog correctly, you can read our full measuring guide here:
How to Measure Your Whippet or Greyhound for a Perfect Fit
Why Whippets & Greyhounds Feel the Cold So Easily
Sighthounds were bred for speed, not insulation. Unlike heavier-coated breeds, whippets, Italian greyhounds, lurchers and greyhounds have very little natural protection against cold weather.
Their thin coat and low body fat mean they can lose body heat quickly, especially:
- during winter walks
- in wet or windy weather
- while resting after exercise
- overnight in colder homes
- during colder autumn and spring evenings
Many owners notice signs such as:
- shivering
- curling tightly into a ball
- seeking radiators or blankets
- reluctance to go outside
- disturbed sleep at night
Older dogs, puppies and naturally slim sighthounds often feel the cold even more strongly.
When a Whippet Jumper Is the Best Choice
A fleece jumper is often the best option for everyday warmth when your dog does not need full waterproof protection.
Many whippets and greyhounds wear jumpers comfortably around the house, during cooler mornings or on dry autumn and spring walks. They provide warmth without the bulk of a heavier winter coat, making them ideal for dogs that prefer lighter layers or need extra comfort indoors.
Jumpers are especially useful for:
- cool indoor temperatures
- dry weather walks
- layering underneath a waterproof coat
- post-walk warmth
- dogs that dislike heavier clothing
- taking the chill off during spring and autumn
Because sighthounds have such little body fat, even a lightweight fleece layer can make a noticeable difference to their comfort.
Sleeveless styles are particularly popular with whippets and greyhounds because they allow natural movement while still keeping the chest, back and core muscles warm.
Many owners also prefer fleece jumpers for lounging and relaxing during the day because they are soft, flexible and less restrictive than heavier outdoor layers.
You can browse our sighthound fleece jumpers here:
When Your Dog Needs a Waterproof Coat Instead
While jumpers are ideal for lightweight warmth, waterproof coats are designed to protect against cold weather outdoors.
Rain, wind and freezing temperatures can make whippets and greyhounds uncomfortable very quickly, especially because their thin coat offers very little natural weather protection.
A properly fitted waterproof coat helps shield the body from:
- cold wind
- rain
- damp conditions
- winter temperatures
- muddy walks
- heat loss during outdoor exercise
Not all dog coats provide the same level of warmth, which is why understanding the different types can help you choose the right option for your dog.
Lightweight Waterproof Coats
These are ideal for milder weather or rainy walks when your dog needs waterproof protection without heavy insulation.
Fleece-Lined Waterproof Coats
These provide a warmer everyday winter option by combining a waterproof outer layer with soft fleece lining underneath.
Quilted Waterproof Winter Coats
These are the warmest option for colder winter weather. They combine:
- a waterproof outer layer
- insulated quilted padding
- warm fleece or sherpa lining
This layered construction helps trap warmth while still protecting against rain and wind during colder walks.
For many whippets and greyhounds, a quilted waterproof coat becomes essential during winter, particularly for older dogs or dogs that feel the cold easily.
You can browse our waterproof sighthound coats here:
Waterproof Whippet & Greyhound Coats
When Whippet Pyjamas Make the Biggest Difference
While jumpers and coats are mainly designed for daytime warmth and outdoor protection, pyjamas help keep whippets and greyhounds comfortable while resting, sleeping and relaxing indoors.
Many sighthounds struggle to stay warm overnight, particularly during winter or in homes with colder temperatures and draughts. Because whippets and greyhounds have so little natural insulation, they can lose body heat surprisingly quickly once they settle down and stop moving.
Pyjamas help provide gentle full-body warmth without the weight of a heavier outdoor coat.
Many owners find pyjamas especially helpful for:
- colder nights
- older whippets and greyhounds
- dogs that wake frequently due to feeling cold
- post-walk recovery
- anxious dogs that settle better with light pressure and warmth
- homes with tiled or wooden floors
- very slim or short-coated sighthounds
Unlike waterproof coats, pyjamas are designed purely for comfort and warmth indoors.
2-Leg vs 4-Leg Whippet Pyjamas
One of the most common questions owners ask is whether they should choose 2-leg or 4-leg pyjamas.
2-Leg Pyjamas
2-leg pyjamas cover the body and front legs while leaving the back legs free. They are often the easiest option for dogs new to wearing pyjamas because they allow maximum movement while still adding warmth across the chest, shoulders and body.
They are ideal for:
- everyday indoor wear
- milder nights
- dogs that prefer less coverage
- owners wanting an easier on-and-off option
You can browse our 2-leg whippet pyjamas here:
2-Leg Whippet & Greyhound Pyjamas
4-Leg Pyjamas
4-leg pyjamas provide the highest level of warmth because they cover all four legs as well as the chest, body and core muscles.
These are particularly popular for:
- colder homes
- winter nights
- elderly whippets
- Italian greyhounds
- very slim dogs
- dogs that feel cold easily
Because 4-leg pyjamas provide more coverage, correct sizing becomes especially important for comfort and movement.
When measuring for 4-leg pyjamas, the back measurement should stop at the base of the tail so the back legs fit correctly and stay comfortable while moving.
You can browse our 4-leg whippet pyjamas here:
4-Leg Whippet & Greyhound Pyjamas
Signs Your Whippet May Still Be Cold
Some whippets and greyhounds show very obvious signs when they feel cold, while others can be more subtle.
Common signs include:
- shivering or trembling
- curling tightly into a ball
- burrowing under blankets
- seeking radiators or heated spots
- lifting paws during walks
- reluctance to go outside
- restless sleep
- constantly changing sleeping position
- leaning against owners for warmth
Many owners are surprised by how much calmer and more settled their dog becomes once they are consistently warm both indoors and outdoors.
When Whippet Pyjamas Make the Biggest Difference
While jumpers and coats are mainly designed for daytime warmth and outdoor protection, pyjamas help keep whippets and greyhounds comfortable while resting, sleeping and relaxing indoors.
Many sighthounds struggle to stay warm overnight, particularly during winter or in homes with colder temperatures and draughts. Because whippets and greyhounds have so little natural insulation, they can lose body heat surprisingly quickly once they settle down and stop moving.
Pyjamas help provide gentle full-body warmth without the weight of a heavier outdoor coat.
Many owners find pyjamas especially helpful for:
- colder nights
- older whippets and greyhounds
- dogs that wake frequently due to feeling cold
- post-walk recovery
- anxious dogs that settle better with light pressure and warmth
- homes with tiled or wooden floors
- very slim or short-coated sighthounds
Unlike waterproof coats, pyjamas are designed purely for comfort and warmth indoors.
2-Leg vs 4-Leg Whippet Pyjamas
One of the most common questions owners ask is whether they should choose 2-leg or 4-leg pyjamas.
2-Leg Pyjamas
2-leg pyjamas cover the body and front legs while leaving the back legs free. They are often the easiest option for dogs new to wearing pyjamas because they allow maximum movement while still adding warmth across the chest, shoulders and body.
They are ideal for:
- everyday indoor wear
- milder nights
- dogs that prefer less coverage
- owners wanting an easier on-and-off option
You can browse our 2-leg whippet pyjamas here:
2-Leg Whippet & Greyhound Pyjamas
4-Leg Pyjamas
4-leg pyjamas provide the highest level of warmth because they cover all four legs as well as the chest, body and core muscles.
These are particularly popular for:
- colder homes
- winter nights
- elderly whippets
- Italian greyhounds
- very slim dogs
- dogs that feel cold easily
Because 4-leg pyjamas provide more coverage, correct sizing becomes especially important for comfort and movement.
When measuring for 4-leg pyjamas, the back measurement should stop at the base of the tail so the back legs fit correctly and stay comfortable while moving.
You can browse our 4-leg whippet pyjamas here:
4-Leg Whippet & Greyhound Pyjamas
Signs Your Whippet May Still Be Cold
Some whippets and greyhounds show very obvious signs when they feel cold, while others can be more subtle.
Common signs include:
- shivering or trembling
- curling tightly into a ball
- burrowing under blankets
- seeking radiators or heated spots
- lifting paws during walks
- reluctance to go outside
- restless sleep
- constantly changing sleeping position
- leaning against owners for warmth
Many owners are surprised by how much calmer and more settled their dog becomes once they are consistently warm both indoors and outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do whippets need jumpers indoors?
Many whippets benefit from wearing lightweight jumpers indoors during colder months, especially older dogs, puppies and naturally slim sighthounds. A fleece jumper can help keep body heat in while allowing comfortable movement around the home.
Are coats or pyjamas warmer for whippets?
They are designed for different situations. Waterproof coats help protect against rain, wind and cold outdoor weather, while pyjamas provide warmth and comfort indoors and overnight.
When should a whippet wear pyjamas?
Pyjamas are useful during colder nights, in draughty homes or for dogs that struggle to stay warm while resting and sleeping. Many owners find pyjamas especially helpful for older whippets and Italian greyhounds.
What is the warmest coat for a whippet?
A quilted waterproof coat with insulated padding and warm fleece or sherpa lining usually provides the highest level of warmth during winter walks and colder weather.
Are 4-leg pyjamas warmer than 2-leg pyjamas?
Yes. 4-leg pyjamas provide more body coverage and extra warmth because they cover all four legs as well as the chest and core muscles. Correct sizing is especially important to keep them comfortable and easy to move in.
How should a whippet coat fit?
A properly fitted whippet coat should sit close to the body without restricting movement. It should comfortably fit the deep chest and slim waist while staying secure during walks without twisting or slipping sideways.
How do I measure my whippet correctly?
The back measurement should be taken from the base of the neck along the spine. For coats and jumpers, many owners prefer slightly extra coverage past the tail for warmth. For 4-leg pyjamas, the measurement should stop at the base of the tail so the back legs fit correctly.
You can read our full measuring guide here:
