Most dogs aren’t bothered by wintry weather, but just like humans, some feel the cold more than others. Many will be fine for short periods outside without wearing an extra layer. But if your dog has thin fur, minimal fat insulation – such as whippets and greyhounds – or they’re old, young, underweight, they’ll benefit from wearing a coat. And the best dog coats have all the features you may need – you can choose a waterproof dog coat, a warm one, a drying dog coat for after a wet walk, and dog coats with a harness hole for those who don’t use a traditional lead.
The best dog coats come in a wide range of sizes (chest, neck and length), so take care to measure your dog carefully and get the perfect fit. If you are using them for his walks in particular, then he needs to be able to move freely. There are specialist dog coats available in more extreme shapes such as dachshunds and greyhounds, so there’s no need for their haunches to be out in the cold!
Do be aware, that some dogs have wonderfully thick coats designed to cope with freezing temperatures, such as huskies, and they may well be happier than ever out in the cold without extra layers. Likewise, most dogs will not need to wear a coat indoors, and will quickly overheat, so always monitor your pet’s wellbeing.
Best dog coats for every occasion
Ancol Muddy Paws Stormguard Dog Coat
Sizes: XS–XXL
Colours: Bright pink, navy, red, chocolate or high-vis
RRP: From £18.29
Warm and waterproof, this pragmatic coat has been inspired by professional outdoor pursuits clothing. It has a cosy fleece lining to insulate your dog from the cold, an enduring waterproof exterior to keep them dry and a chest protector strap to keep them clean and dry from puddles.
It features an elasticated neck for easy removal and snug fit, elasticated back straps, reflective edging tape for visibility and a neck flap with lead slot.
Kurgo Loft Dog Jacket
Sizes: XS–XL
Colours: 8 options
RRP: From £27.49
Great for active walks. This jacket includes a zipper opening to wear with your dog’s favourite harness. This reversible jacket is an athletic fit that allows the dog to walk and run freely. It is made from durable ripstop material to prevent itchiness.
The “Loft” technology is designed to keep the dog warm without overheating, adding warmth not weight. It is water-resistant with insulation.
It features a reflective trim for visibility in the dark, and an adjustable hook and loop belly closure for custom fit.
Can be worn with the Kurgo Fleece Sweater – also with harness hole – on bitterly cold days.
Henry Wag Waterproof Dog Coat
Sizes: XS–XXL
Colour: Blue/grey
RRP: From £24.99
This waterproof coat includes a lead and harness access slot with protective flap cover.
Designed to allow you and your dog to spend longer outside, and minimise the impact of dirt and water on your return home. Features a layer of insulation filling to give some protection from the cold. The materials include Hydro-Comfort Technology making the material breathable and waterproof for maximum comfort. It also includes a reflective stripe along the side of the coat for night-time visibility.
Adjustable collar for a snug fit, and an elastic head hole to ensure even broad-headed breeds can be easily dressed, as well as elastic leg straps to keep the coat in place.
WeatherBeeta Explorer Dog Coat
Sizes: 25–80cm
Colour: Navy
RRP: £59.99
Designed with the idea that you can go and explore anywhere, at any time. It has a waterproof ripstop polyester outer with really soft lining and a warm 160g polyfill, and a belly wrap with adjustment points for the perfect fit.
The waterproof zipped harness/leash hole making it compatible with both collars and harnesses, and the two draw strings and toggles allow adjustment for the neck collar for ultimate fit, with stretch fabric around leg arches for comfort and to prevent rubbing. The reflective logo and piping increases visibility in the dark, too.
Don’t be put off by “Medium” often featuring in the name of this coat – it’s referring to the level of filling, rather than the size.
Ruff and Tumble Classic Dog Drying Coat
Sizes: XXXS–XL, plus 6 breed-specific sizes
Colours: 10 options
RRP: From £36.95
Every dog needs a drying coat to keep him snug as he dries off after a wet walk or a bath. This “dog dressing gown” is ultra-absorbent yet breathable. It dries your dog quickly, with double-thickness towelling for comfort. Manufacturers say it is the number one multi-purpose dog towel robe on the market for indoor and outdoor use, as well as travel. It has also featured as a winner on BBC1’s The Customer is Always Right.
The inside layer wicks moisture from the coat, and their body heat pushes the moisture through to the outer layer of towelling. Accessories include a long adjustable hood/collar, a handy hanging loop, and an extra wide belly flap for maximum coverage. Plus adjustable velcro and elasticated leg straps for the perfect fit.
Morezi Greyhound Waterproof Coat
Sizes: XS–XXXL
Colour: Red, pink or navy
RRP: From £24.99
For dogs with requiring special contouring in the coat shape, Morezi has some great options. Whippets and greyhounds tend to feel the cold more than most dogs, due to carrying minimal fat. These coats are contoured specifically for the shape of the greyhound, whippet and lurcher breeds, and with seven available sizes, you should be able to get the perfect fit.
They have a waterproof outer layer, an inner fleece and an adjustable drawstring round the high collar to keep the draughts out. There is also a reflective section and piping round the coat for visibility in low light. There is also a harness hole.
Morezi also does a dachshund version.
Should my dog wear a coat?
Some dogs never need to wear a coat – and some climates mean they’ll never need an extra layer of insulation. Dogs with thick coats, who were bred to live or work in cold weather, such as huskies and many of the pastoral breeds, have perfectly adequate natural insulation with their own fur, which is often triple-layered.
Small or naturally lean breeds such as whippets feel the cold more than most, and so they will benefit from an extra layer. Some dogs will visibly shiver, especially if your daily walk doesn’t involve any vigorous exercise for them. Also puppies and senior dogs, particularly those with arthritis or weakened immunity, will enjoy a bit of pampering in cold weather. The less they move, they more they need additional insulation.
Dogs should not need to wear a coat indoors, when it’s mild weather – or because you think it looks cute.
When is it cold enough for dogs to wear coats?
It really depends on the breed, and also the age and health of your dog – and it’s the same when it comes to deciding when it’s too cold to walk your dog. Thick-coated dogs do not need to wear coats at all. Huskies lie down and sleep on the snow without a second thought. As a general rule, when the temperature dips below around 5ºC, you may start considering a coat for dogs with short or medium fur, especially if they will be standing around for any length of time.
Chilly winds, snow and frost are all indicators that the weather is cold enough to merit putting your dog in a coat. However, for those dogs that are working hard outside – for example gundogs, huskies, pastoral breeds – a coat will be a hindrance, and likely to be completely unnecessary as they will generate body heat running around. But when they come home wet and muddy and need a bath, that’s the moment when one of the best dog drying coats will be hugely appreciated!
You may also enjoy reading…
Credit: Alamy Stock Photo
Credit: Alamy Stock Photo
Credit: Alamy Stock Photo
Credit: Pastel Pooch Boutique
Credit: Future
Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits.
