On cold Tasmanian mornings, no one wants to step outside and Gigi and Bloom make their feelings known. When the back door opens they hover in the doorway with their paws shifting on the mat and little eyes looking up as if to say, you first. Without a jumper they start to shiver within seconds and there is no way they are going out in the cold.
The only thing that will inspire them to move is when their soft superfine merino knits are on and then something changes, the shaking eases and their posture lifts. They trot out into the garden with quiet determination. I’ve seen it enough times now to know that for them a jumper isn’t just an extra layer, it’s the difference between retreating back to their cosy beds and stepping out to enjoy a walk, something that they love so much.
Why Small Dogs Feel the Cold
Small dogs lose heat faster than larger dogs and this makes them more vulnerable to frosty mornings and chilly winds. In a recent ABC News article University of Adelaide Associate Professor Susan Hazel explains that dogs “less than 10 kg, and ones that are less than 5 kg, even more so” can benefit from wearing an extra layer in cooler weather.
The Right Jumper Makes the Difference
For petite pups like Chihuahuas, Maltese, and Toy Poodles wearing the right jumper offers them both warmth and comfort. When this jumper is well fitting and made from 100% Tasmanian superfine merino wool it is naturally breathable, soft against sensitive skin, and helps regulate body temperature, keeping your dog warm without overheating.
When to Reach for a Jumper
In the same ABC article, Dr Hazel notes that “if your dog is shivering or reluctant to go outside, a jumper can make a real difference.” These cues are a clear sign your small dog would benefit from an extra layer, especially in the cooler mornings of late winter and early spring.
Why Fibre Choice Matters
Unlike synthetic fabrics, a knit made of superfine merino wool is naturally temperature regulating, odour resistant, and entirely biodegradable. It’s also gentle on skin, which is especially important for small dogs that feel every seam and texture. Choosing high quality natural fibres ensures that your pup’s jumper will be comfortable for long wear and will last through many seasons.
The Gigi & Bloom Approach
Every Gigi & Bloom jumper is handcrafted in Tasmania from locally sourced superfine merino wool. Our knits also have the benefit of being lightweight yet insulating and this allows your dog to move freely while staying warm. With colours inspired by Tasmania’s landscapes these knits are as beautiful as they are functional because keeping your pup warm should never mean that they are compromising on style.
More Than Just Warmth
When I see Gigi and Bloom in the doorway now, they’re no longer hesitant to go outside when it’s cold. Because they are wearing their soft superfine merino jumpers they’re ready with their tails up prepared to step outside and enjoy a walk. This means they are warm, yes, but it’s also the comfort and confidence that lets them move through the seasons with ease.
