Best Dog Coat - Comparison and Reviews
Author: Becky Roberts
Last Updated: October 2024
We all want our canine companions to be comfortable, no matter the weather. Winters are becoming colder, so now is a good time to invest in a dog coat that will keep your pup warm and dry, even during the “ruffest” weather conditions.
All the coats we review below are designed to be comfortable and functional, with an emphasis on warmth, weight, and versatility. We found coats with an excellent rating and tons of features to fit any occasion. Whether you’re looking for something your dog can wear on the runway or something that can survive intense hikes in the mountains, our best dog winter coat list will have something for you and your pooch.
Best Dog Coat 2024 - Reviews
1. Scheppend Original Adidog Pet Clothes
The Adidog pet clothes range is designed to inject a bit of fun into dog apparel. The range comes in an array of styles and sizes, so no matter how large or small your dog, you can rest assured they’ll be comfortable and stylish in their best gear.
The Adidog jumpsuit is made from cotton material with a Sherpa fleece lining. It is durable, with double stitching in areas prone to tearing. It’s easy to put on and off, which is a huge bonus if you have a wriggly dog excited to go on their walk. It also features a hoodie for maximum warmth on frigid winter days.
The one issue that you may find with the Adidog pet clothes is finding the right fit. While there is a sizing chart that you can use to guide your decision, you may be forced to compromise, especially if you have a dog with a unique body shape, like a dachshund or greyhound. It’s a good idea to size up and then take in the slack where necessary.
No products found.
Pros:
- Durable
- Easy to put on and off
- Good quality materials
- Striking design and good rating
Cons:
- Not waterproof
- Sizing tends to run small
- Difficult to get a leash through if you use a harness
2. Zack & Zoey Basic Hoodie for Dogs
The Zack and Zoey range of winter dog coats are known for their high-quality materials and comfortable fit. The basic hoodie will keep your dog warm thanks to its blend of soft cotton and polyester. The shirt comes with front sleeves, but only holes for the back legs, which is ideal for dogs that hate feeling the confined feeling of a jumpsuit.
The basic hoodie is designed with your pet’s comfort in mind. The soft material is warm, comfortable, and durable, more than enough to keep them toasty in the middle of winter. The sweatshirt contains a slit at the back of the neck, so it’s easy to leash your dog when you’re out for a walk. You may struggle to attach a leash to a harness.
It is a great choice for the customer who wants a less flashy option than the Adidog coats, but who still wants clothes for city walking. The coat isn’t waterproof, but it is enough for a quick walk around the block before heading back to bed.
No products found.
Pros:
- Large range of colors and sizes
- High-quality, comfortable material, and robust construction
- Simple design that’s easy to put on and take off with Velcro closures
Cons:
- Not waterproof
- Some customers find the fit either too big or too small
- Not designed with harnesses in mind
3. JoyDaog 2 Layers Fleece Lined Warm Dog Jacket
If you live somewhere where a simple cotton coat won’t cut it, you should consider JoyDaog’s 2-layer fleece dog winter coat that offers perfect coverage for extra warmth. Designed for harsh winter conditions, the coat has two layers of fleece to keep your dog toasty warm at all times. It’s also windproof (but not waterproof).
The construction of the jacket is relatively robust, with sturdy stitches on areas that are prone to damage and tearing. It also has elastic edges at the waist and leg edges, which adds an extra layer of protection from cold winds. The metal snaps at the bottom of the jacket making dressing your dog a breeze and getting out of the jacket when you get home even easier.
While the dog jacket comes in a variety of sizes all the way up to XXXL, the manufacturers mainly recommend it for small dogs and puppies. If you do have a big dog, make sure that you use chest girth as your primary measurement and select a larger size if you’re unsure where your dog fits.
No products found.
Pros:
- Double fleece for double warmth
- Windproof
- Metal snaps make putting it on and taking it off easy
Cons:
- Can’t be used with a harness
- Even the largest size may be too small for certain breeds
4. Zack & Zoey Polyester Nor’easter Dog Blanket Coat
If you’re looking for a dog’s coat that is robust enough to survive the wilderness in cold weather, this is one of the best dog jackets for your needs. It is versatile and can be used for anything, from light strolls around the block to lengthy hikes in inclement weather.
Some dogs find snug jackets or jumpsuits restrictive and uncomfortable. The blanket-type style of this coat means that it is loose enough to fit almost any dog, while the Velcro straps ensure that the fit is still snug enough to keep your pet warm.
The dog winter coat is made from high-quality fleece with reflective striping and a cute pawprint design. Despite being made from 100% polyester, the fleece will keep your dog warm in snowy conditions and freezing temperatures. It also comes with a reversible waterproof side that can protect your dog from rain and snow.
If you’re worried about not being able to express your style, this jacket has you covered. There is a wide variety of colors to choose from, including bright pink, purple and orange, or black and grey for the more reserved. The dog coat is ideal for keeping your dog dry and looking good at the same time.
No products found.
Pros:
- Reversible coating with water resistance
- Reflective strips
- Blanket-style design and Velcro strips ensure a great fit for any dog
Cons:
- No size chart to help make the right choice for your dog
5. Kurgo Dog Jacket
The Kurgo dog jacket is perfect for dogs that love to go on hikes and runs with their owners. A converse problem with warm fleece jackets is that while they’re great for short walks, your dog may quickly overheat if you’re planning a longer hike or run. The Kurgo dog jacket has a smart cut that fits snugly around the chest while leaving the legs, belly, and rump exposed, lessening the coverage of these hot areas.
The athletic fit gives your dog an excellent range of movement and will keep them warm without running the risk of overheating.
The jacket is reversible with a water-resistant lining to keep your furry friend dry. It also has reflective piping for added visibility during low light and night conditions. The jacket is mainly for active dogs, and there is a zipper opening at the top that allows for both collar and harness leashing while still keeping your dog warm and cozy during long hikes. It’s made with a rugged nylon exterior for added durability, which is excellent if your dog is prone to charging through the bushes.
No products found.
Pros:
- Durable, rugged design and great features
- Provides warmth while still allowing your dog to remain active
- Has water resistance and is reversible
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Not as warm as fleece jackets
6. Fitwarm Waterproof Pet Clothes for Dog
Fitwarm has a range of dog snowsuits that are warm and water-, wind- and snow-proof. They come in a onesie-style cut with elastic leg openings and an elastic under the belly, ensuring perfect coverage for most breeds. It also features a furry hood for extra coverage and warmth.
Fitwarm dog clothes have a soft fleece-lined interior along with a weather-resistant exterior, providing both comfort and protection during the winter months. Due to the weather-resistant exterior, the onesie is quite stiff without much “give.” It can make dressing your dog a bit more finicky than you might like.
The onesie doesn’t come with a hole for harnesses or leashes, so your dog will have to wear their harness over the clothes. Also, Fitwarm products are mainly for small and medium-sized dogs and are not suitable for larger breeds. The largest breed recommended by the sizing chart is a boxer or bulldog, so if you have a breed bigger than these dogs, you’re out of luck.
No products found.
Pros:
- Inner fleece layer guarantees warmth even in the coldest weather
- The outer layer is wind-, water- and snow-proof
- High-quality materials
Cons:
- No space for harness or collar attachment
- Not suitable for larger dogs
7. PAWZ Road Large Dog Plaid Shirt Coat
Plaid is back in fashion, and there’s no reason why your dog should be left out of the loop. Available in two traditional plaid styles and two modern plaid styles, there’s something here for everybody. Apart from being stylish and having a high Amazon rating, the PAWZ plaid shirt coat is durable and warm. It’s made from a cotton and polyester blend, which makes it easy to wash and care for, as well.
Many coats for dogs come with hoodies that can potentially get in the way. These dog shirts have detachable collars that are easy to take off when not in use.
One of the best features is that the dog shirts have small Velcro pockets on the back that you can use to carry small toys, poo bags, or treats when you’re out and about. It also uses metal buttons for easy dressing and undressing.
One drawback is that the PAWZ plaid shirt is only suitable for medium to large dogs. It does come with five sizes, so you should be able to find a good fit for your particular breed of dog. So, unfortunately, small dogs will not be able to take part in the plaid fashion revolution of dog winter coats.
No products found.
Pros:
- Stylish
- Detachable hood
- Pockets on the back
- Lightweight and durable
- Machine-washable
- Velcro closures
Cons:
- Can’t fit small dogs
- No hole for harnesses or collars.
8. Gooby Padded Vest
One of the biggest complaints that dog owners have about coats is that they aren’t made to accommodate peeing, and this leads to frequent accidents and frequent washes. The Gooby padded vest is designed with dogs and Mother Nature in mind. A shorter cut enables your dog to answer the call without you having to clean up the mess afterward, which you’ll agree is an excellent feature for a dog coat.
The vest is made with high-quality materials that keep your dog warm and dry. It is water-resistant, wind-resistant, and won’t become soggy when exposed to snow.
It also comes with a D-ring, which means you don’t have to worry about how you’re going to leash your dog through the coat. It’s a harness and dog coat in one.
Gooby dog winter coats come with a zipper on the back to make dressing your dog a breeze, too. Some zippers are prone to pinching, but this coat has a protective guard to ensure your dog’s skin won’t get accidentally zipped in while retaining excellent coverage.
Also, because it’s unrestrictive and doesn’t have sleeves for the legs, most dogs will find wearing the coat a comfortable experience right from the beginning, which is perfect for nervous dogs.
No products found.
Pros:
- Built-in harness and leash attachment
- Warm fleece and outer material with water resistance
- Top zipper makes dressing your dog easy
Cons:
- Sizing can be deceptive, and it may be too big for your dog
9. Queenmore Cold Weather Dog Coats
The Queenmore cold weather coat for dogs is made to fit any type of dog and any type of lifestyle. The loft-style coat is versatile and can be adjusted for any body shape. It has a warm inner fleece layer, which will protect your dog in snowy and cold conditions.
The reversible water-resistant layer is useful when you’re on a hike or long walk in the rain, as it will ensure your dog stays warm and dry. The water-resistant side also has a reflective lining down the back, which is easily visible in low light and night-time conditions. It is a great feature on many dog winter coats with good ratings.
The jacket also comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, from vibrant pink stripes to more subdued red flowers. No matter what style your dog needs, you’ll find something that fits them perfectly, with many useful features included.
No products found.
Pros:
- Durable and robust materials
- Wide range of colors and patterns
- Versatile
Cons:
- Sizes run small
10. Thundershirt Sport Dog Anxiety Jacket
Lastly, if you have an anxious pet, then chances are you’ve heard of the Thundershirt. It’s the original calming shirt and is often recommended by vets for rescue dogs. It applies gentle pressure that calms fear and anxiety without the need for medication.
The jacket is an excellent replacement for calming pills and can be used for chronic and acute dog anxiety. If you have a constantly anxious dog, the Thundershirt will help settle them down. You can also use it during stressful events like thunderstorms, fireworks, vet visits, and travel.
The manufacturers are confident in their product and offer a 100 percent money-back guarantee if you find the product doesn’t work for you.
The Thundershirt is made of high-quality materials that are soft, breathable, and easy to clean, giving it a high usability rating. It’s adjustable so that you can find the ideal amount of pressure to apply to calm your nervous pet. It even has reflective stripes and contrasting colors to improve visibility both during the night and the day.
It only comes in two colors, fuchsia, and platinum, so you may find yourself limited in the style department.
No products found.
Pros:
- Scientifically proven to reduce anxiety in dogs
- High-quality construction and materials
- 100 percent money-back guarantee
Cons:
- Not useful for colder weather
- Not waterproof
How to Choose the Best Dog Coat
If you start shopping around for the best dog winter coats, you’ll quickly find that there are hundreds of dog costumes available. The choices can be overwhelming, and if you select the first one that catches your eye, you run the risk of purchasing a coat that isn’t suitable for your dog.
There are several considerations that you should keep in mind when shopping for a winter dog coat. By knowing exactly what your dog’s needs are, you can make an informed decision about which dog coat is the best for your pet.
What To Consider When Buying A Dog Coat
Climate
Winter isn’t the same in every part of the country. Some areas experience cold temperatures with dry weather, while others get whipped around by wind and snow. There are many fabrics that dog coats are made of, specifically designed for one aspect of winter weather, including:
- Fleece linings—your best option for extra warmth. You can use fleece jackets on their own if you have dry, moderate winters, or as an extra layer in colder areas. Due to their nature, fleece linings aren’t waterproof and will become soggy quickly.
- Waterproof or water-resistance is necessary if you receive a lot of wet snow or rain. You should look into dog coats that are waterproof or have water-resistance, usually forming the outer layer of a dog winter coat.
- Unlined shells are fleece-less jackets, ideal for autumn and spring, where conditions are milder. They are usually windproof, lightweight, and can handle a light rain, as well.
Coat Quality and Durability
Ideally, you want a coat that is as high-quality as possible. You will often need to factor in your budget as well, though.
It’s always a good idea to stick to high-quality coats from reputable sellers since they will last you much longer than low-quality products. It doesn’t mean that more expensive coats are always higher quality, or that you can’t find good quality coats for affordable prices, but you should always be careful if a deal sounds too good to be true. Check the rating before buying.
Some pets are rougher on their coats than others. Dogs that hurtle through the wilderness are more likely to damage their coats than dogs that prefer sedate walks in the park. If you have an active dog, you want the most durable dog coat possible. Look for features such as extra stitching on areas that are prone to tear, and coats that are made from durable materials, like nylon or polyester.
Sizing for Large and Small Dogs
Sizing is often the primary concern when it comes to buying dog coats. While many manufacturers agree to provide sizing charts, you still run the risk of getting a coat that is too small or too large.
Some dogs, such as greyhounds, corgis, and dachshunds, have strange body shapes that may not work with some dog coat styles. One option is to be on the lookout for breed-specific coats, which can cater to your dog’s unique anatomy. Even then, if you’re buying dog coats online, you need to have some patience to find a suitable dog coat for your dog.
The length of the dog is usually from the shoulder blades to the base of the tail. You can measure the chest by finding the fattest part of the chest and measuring the circumference, and then also measure the narrowest part, as well. It is important to ensure that the coat will fit snugly without being too tight.
The final measurement is the circumference of your dog’s neck, which will help you find a coat that isn’t too small. You want to use a measuring tape (and plenty of treats) for this process. You can also wrap a bit of string around your dog and use a ruler or tape measure to determine the length of the string.
Do You Need a Waterproof Dog Coat?
It depends on your climate. If you live in an area where you receive a lot of rain, snow, or mixed precipitation, then the answer is ‘yes.’ If you only experience light rain or snow, you can probably get away with a coat with water-resistance instead. The main difference between the two is the volume of water they can protect your dog from before they are soaked.
Waterproof dog coats are essential if you take your dog for long walks in cold and wet conditions. If your dog gets even a bit wet, they’ll quickly start getting cold, even with a coat on.
FAQs
1. Do dogs really need jackets?
While dog jackets may seem a bit frivolous, they are essential for keeping certain dogs warm and comfortable during winter. Big, hairy dogs like Malamutes and St. Bernard’s with thick fur coverage are obviously well-insulated against the cold and don’t require jackets. Dogs with lower body fat or thinner hair, however, may suffer significantly during wintertime.
It is especially true for breeds like the Greyhound, French Bulldog, and many terriers, all of which struggle to generate enough heat to keep them warm in the middle of winter. If you find your dog refusing to go out for a walk, there’s a good chance it’s too cold for them. Even hairy dogs, like Corgis, can suffer in winter as their bellies are often in contact with snow and chilly sidewalks.
Apart from certain breeds, there are also other dogs that can benefit from a warm jacket, including:
- Puppies
- Sick dogs
- Dogs with diabetes, kidney disease, or heart disease
- Senior dogs
- Dogs recovering from an injury
- Arthritic dogs
2. At what temperature should a dog wear a coat?
When your dog should wear a coat will depend on several factors, including climate, dog size, and dog breed. A general rule of thumb is that anything lower than 45 degrees is fine for most dogs. Only when the temperature is lower than that will you need to put a coat on your dog.
The guideline may apply to most dogs, but vulnerable breeds that are lean, short-haired, or from a warmer climate will need their coats before this threshold. The best way to decide whether to put a coat on is to listen to your dog. If they’re reluctant to go outside, or they have started shivering, it’s a good indication that they’re getting cold.
If they start panting, you may need to take the coat off since your dog is overheating. You can also speak to your veterinarian about which breeds are more prone to getting cold and whether they agree that your dog should wear a coat.
3. Can my dog wear a coat indoors?
Most dog winter coats are designed for outdoor use. Dogs are prone to overheating quickly, and wearing a hot jacket inside will be uncomfortable and even unhealthy for your dog. You may also find that prolonged use of a dog jacket results in chafing and irritation.
Rather use dog blankets and dog beds to keep your dog warm indoors. Leave the dog winter coat for the quality time you spend outside.
