Just as chilly weather makes people feel cold, so does our furry friends! Your doggies are naturally as uncomfortable in frosty weather as you would be if you wandered out buck naked.
Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian Huskies, and other dogs with thick furs have exceptional tolerance to cold weathers; however, small, light-bodied, and short-haired breeds are highly vulnerable to cold and could use an additional layer to warm them up. Fortunately, there are plenty of sets available to protect your pup from the cold.
Selecting the best dog coat for your adorable companion can be overwhelming – there are numerous cuts, fabrics, functions, and styles to choose from! Your dog will certainly look adorable in any coat you pick, but the only thing they’ll notice is whether it makes them warm and comfortable.
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Why My Dog Needs a Coat?
A dog’s hair serves as a nature-made protection against the elements of the crisp season. Nonetheless, you wouldn’t want to risk your dog quivering in the unpredictable icy weather. As a dog owner, you need to decide whether getting a coat would benefit your furry friend. Remember, your pal’s capacity to physically keep himself warm depends on his size, breed, and age.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, thin-haired and short-legged breeds are more likely to become cold faster as they have less body fat to keep them warm. Similarly, dogs with heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or hormonal imbalance may have difficulties regulating their body temperature and are more susceptible to extreme temperatures.
Dog coats are great covers for keeping most small and thin haired breeds warm and cozy in winter seasons. Likewise, keeping your old pal snug with a dog coat during a winter evening is also one way of showing you care.
Getting a coat for your pal can make a meaningful difference in his well-being; the only clear danger is when your pet suffers from excessive heating. Thus, you need to be perceptive as not all dogs are comfortable wearing coats.
How to Choose the Best Dog Coat
With the temperature steadily dropping, your companion may either be very excited or extremely reluctant to play outside. On that note, it might be time to pick a coat for your pup. Here are some tips to help you look for the perfect dog coat so that you and your best bud can still enjoy your daily walks together:
Decide whether your dog needs a coat
Maybe you’re pondering about whether your dog really needs a coat for the season. Dogs come in different shapes, sizes, and types of fur – all of which are important criteria to take into consideration. While some dogs have more insulating body fat, others are not that fortunate. Thin, smaller, and short-haired dogs are generally in need of some extra layers. Here are a few dog breeds which are good prospects for wearing a dog coat:
- Papillion
- Greyhound
- Chihuahua
- Small Terriers
- Whippets
Additionally, aged dogs, young pups, dogs with a frail immune system, and dog breeds accustomed to hot climates are most likely candidates in need for some extra insulation.
Take your dog’s measurements
Just like buying dog boots, you need to make sure the coat you’re buying your dog fits him perfectly. To get the right length and have the perfect comfortable and snugly fit, you need to take into consideration your pup’s measurements. Make sure the design is tailored for your dog’s breed. Below are some guidelines to measure your dog’s size:
- Place your dog in a standing position
- Measure the circumference of your dog’s neck and girth
- Measure from his collar until the base of his tail
A perfectly fitted dog coat should fully cover both neck and belly. It should be snug but not close-fitting.
Examine the materials
Think of the most important feature that would benefit your pooch the best. Each coat type has key features specifically matched to take on the changing challenges of the winter weather. Examine the warmth and thickness of the material instead of checking its style and color. If a coat looks amazing but doesn’t keep your dog warm and comfy, it defeats the purpose of buying it. Here are some materials that make up the best coat:
- Waterproof material – tailored for moist snow and rainy conditions.
- Fleece lined fabric – works as self-contained insulation in cool and dry weather.
- Unlined shells – perfect for light rain, windy conditions, and mild temperature.
- High-loft, synthetic insulation – provides warmth in cold temperatures, great for dry snow.
Check the design
Dog coats come in a variety of styles and types. Ideally, coats for dogs are not about the trends but to help your dog adjust to extreme and low temperatures to make them feel more comfortable and happy in the snow. Below are some important considerations in choosing the perfect coat design:
- Washable – make sure the coat can easily be washed.
- Functional – look for a coat with enough leg openings to allow your dog to play without restrictions.
- Visible – keep your pooch safe by choosing a design with reflective stripes.
- Warm – the design should be focused on providing plenty of insulation.
- Comfortable – search for designs that will stay comfortable even after washing it many times.
- Safe – avoid choosing coats with small pieces and dangling threads that he can swallow or get tangled with.
Look for designs that are free of hooks, buttons, or tags.
Additionally, you want to make sure it has a dog collar or a harness where you can clip the lead on.
9 of the Best Dog Coats On the Market
Reports show that an average of US$2,883 is spent by pet owners on 22 “common expenses” for their dogs. Providing your pup’s basic necessities has undoubtedly become expensive over the years. But as a loving keeper, giving the best for your furry companion is a priority. Thus, here are some of the best product recommendations that may help you find the optimum coat for your dog:
Ruffwear Powder Hound
Built for Adventures
Don’t let the chill stop you and your pooch from enjoying outdoor adventures. Keep your companion protected from the elements with this insulated coat. The Ruffwear powder hound is a hybrid weather-resistant coat that provides the warmth of artificial insulation which makes it perfect for cold weather activities.
It also doesn’t get wet, muddy, and dirty – the lower fabric is tailored to shed dirt, snow, and water so you can cuddle with your doggies while playing at snowbanks. Its sleeved design provides precise coverage which allows for maximum warmth without limiting your dog’s movement. The reflective trim also allows you and your companion to go extra miles of adventure. Apart from all of these, dressing your pooch will be a breeze with its zippered closure.
Why We Like It:
- It fits perfectly and keeps pooches warm
- Comes with a great quality build
- The insulated inner-fly perfectly prevents the fur from getting caught when zipping
What We Don’t Like:
- The coat is tailored nicely but can be very expensive
- It has a great fit, but the arm part may be too tight to certain types of dog
Kurgo Loft Jacket
Adjustable, Reversible, and Reflective
Let your dog brave the chilly season with this stylish reversible dog vest ideal for runs and hikes. The vest has an adjustable hook and loop closure that allows for a custom fit and reflective piping for easy visibility during walks at night. It is a lightweight dog weather coat molded from comfortable, Microtomic ripstop material that provides durability.
The coat allows for freedom in movement and is water resistant. Furthermore, it has a machine washable zipper opening on the back that encloses a harness where you can readily attach a leash. The most notable factor about this coat is its reversible style which allows you to change from one color to another.
Why We Like It:
- Perfect for large chested dogs
- Its water-resistant feature makes it an excellent purchase
- It is very lightweight and does not restrict your dog’s movements
What We Don’t Like:
- Sizing does not fit for all dogs. If your dog is between sizes, you might not find a great fit
- Velcro attachment gets easily undone with highly energetic and active pups
Hurtta Pet Collection Summit Parka for Dogs
Simple and Efficient
The Hurtta Summit Parka is an easy and smart way to keep your dog cozy in cold weather. It’s designed to protect your dog’s chest, sensitive abdomen area, and important muscle groups. It is quick and uncomplicated to put on and take off as you won’t need to lift your dog’s legs. All you need is to simply fasten the buckle around the waist.
The Summit Parka has a waterproof and breathable Houndtex coating ideal for light rain or snow as well as built-in high-visibility 3M reflectors. Its notable features include an adjustable belt, collar, and back length that allows for a perfect fit and freedom of movement.
Why We Like It:
- Ideal for skinny and deep-chested dogs
- Comes with adjustable neck and chest functions for more rooms for movement
- The jacket is customizable
- The top layer is waterproof
What We Don’t Like:
- Not good for heavy snows and energetic dogs
Zack & Zoey Polyester Nor’easter Dog Blanket Coat
Durable, Soft, and Comfy
Zack & Zoey Polyester Nor’easter dog blanket coat is a snug, soft, and long-lasting machine-washable dog coat. This jacket features a water-resistant reversible shell, reflective stripe, soft plaid fleece, and a paw print on the back. It has a neck and belly Velcro closures which allow for an adjustable fit.
Why We Like It:
- Excellent reversible dog jacket
- Comes with a cute patterned fleece inside
- Fits well for heavier dogs with some room to spare for movement
What We Don’t Like:
- Nice coat, but the sizing is a bit off
Weatherbeeta Reflective Parka 300D Deluxe Dog Coat
Dry and Warm
The Reflective Parka 300D Deluxe dog coat is made of a durable 300 Denier fabric that offers the right amount of warmth. Its features include covered adjustable hook and loop closures, full coverage of the belly and chest, and elastic rear leg bands. The coat also has reflective stripes and a highly-visible color which is great for night walks and during hunting seasons.
Additionally, it is 100% waterproof, provides shelter from wind and rain, and offers medium warmth without being restrictive.
Why We Like It:
- Good quality and nice fit
- Suitable for cold and rainy seasons
- Provides great chest and neck protection
What We Don’t Like:
- The inner seams are rough and may rub on your dog’s armpits
PetRageous Designs Juneau Dog Coat
Stylish and warm
Keep your pooch safe from the elements with this stylish, windproof, water-resistant, and heavyweight coat. The PetRageous Designs Juneau dog coat guarantees a cozy and sufficient fit with its fuzzy fastener back closure and elastic leg straps. It is designed for extra comfort with a full chest coverage and a convenient collar opening where you can readily add or remove a leash. It also has reflective stitching that keeps your dog visible at night.
Why We Like It:
- Easy to clean and strap
- Good quality construction
- Keeps pups extra warm
What We Don’t Like:
- Sizes run small, the back folds over and lifts up – you need to constantly pull it back down
Gooby – Padded Vest
A Multi-Functional Option
The Gooby padded vest keeps your dog comfy, warm, and dry. It doesn’t get easily soggy, is lightweight, and protects your furry friend fully from the cold. It includes a protective guard that prevents dog skin and fur from getting zipped accidentally. Putting on and taking off the coat is completely struggle-free since its zipper is located in the back. Attaching a leash won’t also be a problem because you can secure it without needing an extra harness.
Why We Like It:
- An exceptional vest that provides great value and functionality
- Super lightweight and satisfactorily thick
- It’s nice and puffy and fully keeps the cold air out
What We Don’t Like:
- The coat is not machine washable as the zippers break easily when washed
RUFFWEAR – K-9 Overcoat
Classic Overcoat Jacket
The K9 overcoat from Ruffwear is a convenient jacket with many functions made of durable materials and are specifically designed for active dogs. Water and wind-resistant, its fleece lining keeps your dog warm and comfortable. The design provides a roomier fit and good coverage. Side-release buckles make it simple for your pup to wear, and it also includes reflective accents which keep your pup visible in the dark.
Why We Like It:
- The fabric is durable and customizable
- The coat is easy to put on and the straps can readily be adjusted
- Designed to be water-resistant
What We Don’t Like:
- It does keep your dogs dry, but their chests can get easily wet due to poor sizing
Kuoser Cozy Waterproof Plaid Dog Coat
Cute & Snuggly Coat For The Cosiest Dogs
The Kuoser cozy waterproof plaid dog coat has a lot to offer pooches who love the outdoors. Made from high-quality materials, and designed to stand out, it’s a really great option for most small, medium and large dogs.
The coat is made from polyester fiber, cotton and terylene. This great combination of materials provides a snuggly, warm inner layer and a water-resistant outer layer for perfect all-weather walking. With the hook and loop closure, collar and harness hole, and elastic chest design, it is also really easy to put on and off your pet, for quick walk preparation.
Owners who like their pets to look smart will appreciate the leather labels and 6 different colors and patterns available to choose from. Will you choose plaid for a stylish, classic look? Or how about sports luxe with a quilted design? There’s something to suit every pet, all available in 7 sizes too, for the perfect fit.
Why We Like It:
- 6 colourful designs
- Available in 7 different sizes
- Easy to get on and off
- Warm and water-resistant
What We Don’t Like:
- Fitting may not be as precise as with a custom coat
- Fabric water resistant not waterproof
FAQs
Q: Are winter coats necessary for dogs?
A: It actually depends on your location. If you’re from a snowy or cold region, then your dog will most likely need a winter coat, especially if he’s used to living in a warm climate.
In extremely cold seasons, even dogs that are used to living in cold regions will require a winter coat. That said, even if you own thick-furred breeds like huskies or chows, it’s still best to secure a winter coat just in case.
Q: When should I start training my dog to wear a coat?
A: Like you would when training your dog to wear a dog life jacket, you want to train him while he’s still a puppy. This way, he’ll become more comfortable wearing it until he grows up. Fortunately, you can still train an older dog by having him wear the coat for short periods of time, all by giving him treats if he behaves well.
Once he gets used to it, you can then extend the duration until he becomes more comfortable.
Final Thoughts
With proper preparation and research, you will surely be able to select the perfect warm coat for your companion. As mentioned earlier, getting the proper overcoat for your dog can mean a lot to his well-being. Hence, being sensitive to your pal’s tolerance to cold is very important in deciding whether buying a dog coat would be helpful to your pup.