Why Your Dachshund Needs a Jumper like a Royal Romper in Winter (And How to Choose One)

At 2 Royal Hounds, our story began back in 2018 when I first started making custom-fitted coats for dachshunds. Over the years, I created thousands of fleecy coats, each one tailored to measure. They did their job, but something still felt missing.

It wasn’t until I looked closely at my own senior dachshunds, the late Lady Lottie and Sir Duke (RIP), that I realised what it was. Despite wearing their coats, they still shivered, especially as the cold crept in from underneath. Their bellies, so close to the ground, were left exposed.

That’s when the idea for Royal Rompers was born. In 2021, I shifted from standard dachshund dog coats to full-body jumpers, designed especially for dachshunds. The difference was instant and life-changing: once their underbellies were covered, the shivering stopped. My dachshunds were finally warm, snug, and comfortable through the winter.

Why Do Dachshunds Feel the Cold So Much?

Dachshunds may be small, but they have big needs when it comes to winter warmth. Their unique shape and coat type make them more sensitive to cold weather than many other breeds, which is why so many owners turn to dachshund dog coats and sausage dog jumpers in winter.

Here’s why:                                      

• Short legs mean their bellies are close to cold, damp ground

• Thin coats, especially for smooth-haired dachshunds, offer little insulation

• Low body fat makes it harder to retain body heat

• Small size means they lose warmth faster

• Senior dachshunds or dogs with health issues (like IVDD) need extra protection

That’s why finding a well-fitted winter coat for your dachshund is more than just a style choice. It’s an essential way to keep them healthy, happy, and warm.

The Health Risks of Letting Your Dachshund Get Too Cold

When a dachshund's coat or jumper is missing from their winter routine, the cold can affect more than just comfort. Prolonged exposure to chilly weather can lead to real health concerns, especially for miniature breeds.

Here are some of the risks:

• Muscle stiffness and joint pain – cold muscles tighten easily, which can make moving uncomfortable.

• Aggravated IVDD symptoms – dachshunds prone to back issues may find their pain worse in cold conditions. Read more about dachshunds and IVDD.

• Reluctance to toilet outside – shivering pups often refuse to go outdoors, leading to accidents indoors.

• Behaviour changes – clinginess, irritability, or withdrawal are signs your pup isn’t coping with the cold.

 Signs Your Dachshund Might Need a Jumper

Not sure if your pup really needs extra warmth? Watch for these tell-tale signs:

• Shivering or trembling

• Burrowing more than usual under blankets or cushions

• Avoiding cold surfaces like tiles or grass

• Cold ears, paws, or belly when you touch them

• Reluctance to go for walks on chilly days

If you notice any of these behaviours, it’s a strong indicator that your dachshund could benefit from a well-fitted winter jumper or coat.

Why Full-Body Dachshund Jumpers Matter in Winter

Unlike many breeds, dachshunds are particularly vulnerable in cold weather. Their shape and size make it hard for standard dog clothing to do the job.

Here’s why:

• Thin, single coats mean little natural insulation.

• Low-to-the-ground bodies pick up damp and cold straight from the ground.

• Temperature sensitivity makes it harder to regulate body heat, raising the risk of hypothermia.

• Older dachshunds often need extra warmth to keep joints and muscles comfortable.

A standard dog coat only covers the top half, leaving vital organs and muscles exposed. A full-body dachshund jumper protects where they feel the cold most—the underbelly—keeping them truly warm and comfortable all winter.

Perfecting the Fit: Dachshund Jumpers Made for Their Shape

Making the move from custom-made to ready-to-wear sizes was no small step. But after years of tailoring, I had a strong understanding of the sizes dachshunds naturally fall into. I worked with professional graders, developed patterns, and refined them over and over again, at least half a dozen times.

My goal was simple: a perfect fit that kept dachshunds warm while allowing them to move freely and walk without restriction. Whether it’s a dachshund jumper or one of our miniature dachshund jackets, each piece is designed to suit their long backs and short legs.

Today’s Royal Rompers reflect that dedication, combining comfort with practicality. Check our dachshund sizing guide.

What to Look for in a Dachshund Coat or Jumper

When choosing a winter coat or jumper for your dachshund, keep these essentials in mind:

• Fit is everything – designs should suit their long backs and short legs.

• Warm, durable fabrics – fleece or wool for insulation, with water-resistant layers for damp days.

• Easy to get on and off – helpful for wriggly pups or senior dachshunds with stiff joints.

• Toilet-friendly design – look for underbelly coverage that still allows easy toileting.

• Style and safety – bright colours or reflective details add visibility on winter walks.

Whether you’re choosing sausage dog jumpers or miniature dachshund jackets, the key is a tailored fit. At 2 Royal Hounds, every Royal Romper is crafted with this in mind—practical, protective, and dachshund-approved.

Keeping Dachshunds Warm, Healthy & Happy

For me, Royal Rompers aren’t just clothing, they’re comfort, protection, and love sewn into every stitch. From Lady Lottie and Sir Duke to the thousands of dachshunds now wearing them, the mission has always been the same: to help dachshunds live their happiest, cosiest lives through winter.

So when the cold weather sets in, don’t leave your dachshund shivering. A well-fitted dachshund dog coat or jumper is more than just a fashion statement; it’s an essential part of their health and well-being.

Ready to keep your pup cosy this winter? Explore our full range of Royal Rompers and dachshund coats, designed for the perfect fit.

FAQ – Dachshund Coats & Cold Weather

Over the years, we’ve heard so many questions (and myths!) from dachshund owners about coats and jumpers. To help you feel confident about keeping your pup cosy, here are some of the most common questions we get, answered with both experience and facts.

Do dachshunds really need coats in winter?

Yes. Dachshund dog coats and jumpers aren’t just fashion; they’re essential for comfort and well-being. Their thin coats, small size, and low-to-the-ground bodies make them more sensitive to the cold than many other breeds.

Won’t my dachshund overheat in a jumper?

No, not in winter. A well-fitted dachshund jumper is designed to keep your pup warm without being too heavy or restrictive. Just be mindful indoors, remove the jumper if your dachshund seems too warm or restless.

 Are dog coats just for fashion?

That’s a common myth. While sausage dog jumpers and coats can be stylish, their main purpose is protection and warmth. A good winter coat for a dachshund keeps them cosy, supports their health, and even makes winter walks more enjoyable.

 How do I know if a dachshund coat fits properly?

The coat or jumper should be snug but not tight, covering the chest and belly while leaving room for movement. A miniature dachshund jacket should never restrict walking or toileting. If your pup can walk, run, and sit comfortably, you’ve found the right fit.

 Should dachshunds wear coats indoors, too?

Sometimes. Smooth-haired or senior dachshunds may benefit from a light jumper indoors, especially in draughty houses. For active pups, save the dog coat for outdoor use to avoid overheating.