How to Pick the Perfect Winter Blanket for Pets

They may have a built-in fur coat, but your pet is definitely feeling the days and nights getting colder as much as you are. So, why not make their favorite spot in the home extra-warm and cozy with a brand-new plush winter blanket?

But don’t purchase just any ole blanket.

For tips on choosing a winter blanket for your furry friend, we turned to Chewy’s own Bed & Furniture Product Developer Jill Lazinsky, who shared five things to consider while browsing winter blankets:

Where you live
The size of the blanket
The material
Your pet’s health needs
Your décor

Consider Where You Live

Not all of us experience a snowy, frigid winter. So, your climate and environment should be taken into consideration when shopping for winter blankets.

PetFusion Premium Cat & Dog Cooling Blanket

“Pet blankets come in a variety of fabrics, but it all comes down to the environment,” Lazinsky stresses. “A pet blanket should be durable enough for play but cozy enough to make them feel safe.”

Live in a cold location? Look for blankets that keep your cat or dog warm. Fleece and sherpa blankets will get the job done.
Live in a warmer location? You’re better off with blankets that contain cooling technology that helps your pet stay warm when it’s cold and cool off when it’s hot. PetFusion’s Premium Cooling Blanket boasts this fancy feature.

Get the Right Size

Getting a blanket that’s big enough for your pet (but not too big!) is a must, according to Lazinsky.

Large dogs should have enough room to stretch and lounge, while small dogs will be comfortable without getting tangled from a more oversized blanket.

A good way to measure for your ideal pet blanket is to match the size of your dog bed or cat bed.

Consider the Material

As mentioned, fleece and sherpa are great materials for keeping your pet warm. But what materials are easiest to maintain and clean (read: machine washable)?

“Your main goal should be to give your pet security and comfort but should also make your life as the pet parent easier, too,” Lazinsky says.

Here's what you should know about microfiber, fleece and sherpa blankets, the three most common fabrics for pet blankets that also keep your fur babies warm:

Microfiber

Strong, sturdy, yet soft material
Insulating
Moisture-wicking
Machine washable

We like: PetFusion Microplush Quilted Blanket ($28)

Fleece

Durable material: soft enough for snuggles yet sturdy enough that it won’t shred, tear or wear out easily
Dries quickly
Machine washable

We like: Allisandro Microplush Fleece Polyester Blanket ($33)

Sherpa

Durable, super-soft fabric
Lightweight
Moisture-wicking
Dries quickly
Machine washable

We like: Frisco Sherpa Blanket ($16)

And while no blanket is 100 percent chew-proof, some pet blanket materials hold up better than others. Microfiber and fleece are more difficult for pets to shred, Lazinsky says. However, “the use of blankets should be monitored by a pet parent if your pet is known to be a chewer.”

Consider Your Pet’s Health Needs

Winter can be a tough time for aging and elderly pets, and the right blanket can help them feel more comfortable.

For example, for senior pups with incontinence issues:

Consider a waterproof dog blanket, like PetAmi’s Waterproof Throw Blanket.

Waterproof pet blankets include a water-resistant membrane or inner liner between the flannel fabric and the sherpa fabric that prevents leakage through the blanket.

Many are also machine washable for easy cleaning.

For pets who get anxious or stressed:

Calming blankets could help them relax.

Best Friends by Sheri's Calming Lux Fur Blanket is not only made with a soft-to-the-touch vegan faux fur material but it also has some weight to it (it's two pounds).

And according to Harvard Health, weighted blankets basically simulate a comforting hug, which in turn is believed to help calm and settle the nervous system.

Match your Décor

Having a blanket just for pets doesn’t mean you have to compromise on personal style. No way! And there are lots of choices available to match and blend into whatever interior design choices already exist.

Molly Mutt pet blankets, for example, come in a variety of patterns that you and your pets will enjoy–from feminine and floral patterns to more classic patterns.

For blankets that combine ultra-soft materials for ultra-warmth, while also looking super chic, turn to Frisco’s Eyelash faux fur blankets. They're available in three colors, boast a double-sided design with faux fur on one side and velvet on the other, and are machine-washable for easy cleaning.

Is Your Home...

What to Avoid

The ultimate goal for your dog or cat’s blanket should be comfort, whether that means snuggling with it in their pet bed, lounging with it on the couch, or providing extra padding placed on the floor.

Not many safety concerns will creep up, but just in case, avoid pet blankets that…

Have large, knit holes or netting, that can lead to paws getting stuck
Have features such as pom-poms or tassels that your pet will want to chew or tear off, to prevent your pet from ingesting any harmful materials

Found the perfect one? Great! As you await the delivery of your winter blanket, continue the pampering by planning a mommy-and-me spa night—and we vote facials. This DIY blueberry facial is safe for you and your dog.

More Ways to Stay Warm This Winter: