Although your dog has a natural fur coat, it may not be enough to keep him warm in cooler or cold weather. Whilst some breeds do come equipped with their very own external layering system, others have finer, lighter layers of fur and there are those which are not genetically suited to the environments in which they find themselves living.
It’s worth pointing out that many dog breeds which are kept as pets are not necessarily native to where they live and therefore not suited to winter weather without the help of a dog coat.
You could be surprised to see that your dog is extremely uncomfortable with winter temperatures — as uncomfortable as you’d be going outside without your coat.
Whilst it’s true that dogs maintain a normal body temperature a couple of degrees higher than a human’s, it’s kind to give them some help to stay warm and comfortable in cold weather.
That’s why we put together this TOP 10 DOG COATS buyers guide to help you make the right choice for your dog.
Table of Contents
Here’s a quick look at the Top 10 Dog Coats
- 2-in-1 Light Reflective Dog Coat
- Ginger Ted Waterproof Dog Coat
- Phunky Pets – Waterproof Dog Coat
- Ancol Muddy Paws Coat and Chest Protector
- Outhwaite Padded Dog Coat
- Timberwolf Extreme Wax Coat
- Reflective Dog Coat by Weatherbeeta
- UBEST Dog Coat Waterproof Jacket
- Rosewood Options Water Resistant Dog Coat
- Muddy Paws Stormguard & Fleece Lined Coat
In a Hurry? Then click here to see our favourite choice and a favourite with the buyers over on Amazon
Outside Temperature
Generally speaking, if the outdoor temperature is in the region of 45 degrees Fahrenheit or higher, the majority of breeds will cope without the need for a dog coat; so consider the time of day when you take your dog for a walk or run, bearing in mind that the temperature may well rise during the course of the day.
How warm your dog can keep himself will depend on its breed, size, type of fur and even its age. Smaller breeds and those with very short, thin fur and those which are smooth-coated will definitely benefit from wearing a coat when engaging in outdoor activities when the cooler season arrives.
The longer your pet is outside and exposed to lower temperatures, the more likely he will become cold and uncomfortable.
Keep an eye on your dog’s behaviour when the temperature drops – if he’s shivering, he’s feeling the cold and it’s time to get his coat out!
Different Breeds and Fur Types
The breed or type of dog will generally dictate what type of coat they have, and how well they are able to cope during the winter weather.
Solid, stocky dogs with some degree of muscle tone and fat are less likely to feel the cold than finely-built breeds, although the type of fur they have will also affect their tolerance to cool temperatures.
Smaller, smooth-coated and short, fine furred breeds will be the first to feel the cold; such breeds include Chihuahuas and similar ilk dogs. Finely built, lithe Greyhounds will also find it difficult to stay warm due to their thin, fine fur.
Breeds such as the Siberian Husky or the German Shepherd have double-coated fur which is designed for very cold weather and are therefore very unlikely to need a dog coat.
Which brings us to the in-between breeds such as the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, which whilst it’s true they are a stocky breed, with good muscle structure, they have a fine, short coat which can make them prone to feeling the cold.
When to Use a Dog Coat
Let’s be sensible about this – in very mild winter weather, few dogs will need protection from the cold other than perhaps a raincoat if it’s wet outside.
As every dog is different, it’s important to watch your own dog to see how they’re coping with the weather; if your pet has a thin, fine coat with not much muscle or fat, they’re more likely to feel the cold than a larger, thick-furred one.
If it’s really cold and also raining, your pup is likely to need something on the heavy-duty style, in which case a waterproof dog coat may be the best option.
Taking your dog on a long walking excursion? Consider a dog back-pack style as these have a variety of pockets and holders, designed to carry items such as treats, water, poop-bags etc.
During dark evening walks, a high-visibility dog coat may well be the best option; being made from brightly coloured, reflective material, they are designed for your dog’s safety as they can be seen by motorists and other pedestrians clearly in the dark.
In extreme cold weather, you may find that a fleece-lined dog coat is best suited for your canine friend.
Your dog is an important family member, do him a favour and keep as close an eye on him as you would the rest of your family during the cold season. Warm, happy and comfortable!
The products in this article – a collection of high-quality and practical dog coats – have been researched by ‘bowwowtech.co.uk’ and the results listed are in no particular order, however, they all fall into the class of Top 10 Dog Coats based on their Best Selling or Highly Rated factors. Clicking on any of the images or other links will take you to an external site where you have the opportunity to purchase or learn more about the product – Enjoy!
All products in this article can be found on amazon, any links which are clicked and subsequently purchased may provide us (bowwowtech.co.uk) with a small commission. Any commissions earned are reinvested to enable us to produce more articles and provide educational material to visitors to our site.
TOP 10 DOG COATS 2020 REVIEW
1. 2-in-1 Light Reflective Dog Coat
- Suitable for All Seasons
- Waterproof & Windproof
- Removable Polar Fleece Lining
- Light reflective band
With a removable polar fleece lining, this 2-in-1 dog coat from Danish Design is perfect for all weathers. Attach the fleece lining during the cold season or remove it for the warmer ones. Completely waterproof, windproof and breathable, this dog coat protects against all elements when enjoying outdoor excursions.
As well as adjustable Velcro fastenings, the built-in rear leg straps prevent the 2-in-1 coat from slipping, while the reflective band keeps your dog seen during the darker evenings.
Available in Blue, Green, Black, Khaki and Orange, with sizes ranging from 10 inch to 30 inch
Read More Customer Reviews on Amazon
2. Ginger Ted Waterproof Dog Coat
- Ideal for Greyhounds, Whippets and Lurchers.
- Adjustable Body and Front Straps
- Reflective Piping
- Fold-Down Wither Flap
This waterproof dog coat from Ginger Ted provides all-round comfort and is designed to keep your dog warm and dry.
Made from coated polyester, the dog coat is waterproof, windproof, breathable and washable. Lined with warm fleece, the coat also has adjustable front and belly straps as well as reflective piping on all edges, a wither flap and a harness/leash slot.
Available in Yellow, Navy, Red and Tartan, with sizes ranging from 16 inch to 30 inch
Read More Customer Reviews on Amazon
3. Phunky Pets – Waterproof Dog Coat
- Elasticated Chest Protector
- Velcro Fastenings
- Easy Lead Attachment
- Warm and Waterproof
This is a relatively lightweight jacket and with its warm, fleece lining can be worn through most of the year.
The high visibility, reflective piping ensures safety for your dog, making him visible and easy to locate in dim light situations.
The elasticated chest protector provides extra comfort and protection from the elements. The Velcro fastenings on the chest and neck make it easy to take on and off. There is a convenient hole behind the neck through which you can attach a leash to your dog’s collar.
Available in Black, Blue, Orange, Pink, Red and Yellow. Sizes range from X-Small (26cm) to XXX-Large (59cm)
Read More Customer Reviews on Amazon
4. Ancol Muddy Paws Coat and Chest Protector
- Velcro Fastening
- Elasticated Leg Straps
- Reflective Edge Tape
- Washable
This all-weather dog coat was inspired by professional outdoor pursuits equipment in quality ski wear.
The chest protector with Velcro fastening and elasticated leg straps, make this coat easy to put on and remove.
Reflective edge tape around all edges provides security and safety for your dog and with the leash attachment slit in the neck area, convenience and comfort are assured.
Available in Red, Blue and Chocolate, with sizes ranging from Small to XX-Large
Read More Customer Reviews on Amazon
5. Outhwaite Padded Dog Coat
- Fully waterproof
- Warm Padded Lining
- 11 sizes to suit most dogs
- Fully taped seams
Waterproof, windproof and washable, this padded dog coat is designed with durability and comfort in mind.
Cosy and comfortable to wear, the Outhwaite Padded Dog Coat comes in a wide range of sizes to suit most dogs.
High-quality materials are used to ensure durability, the fabric is specially treated to ensure your dog stays dry when out in the rain.
For larger dogs, the coat is provided with two underbelly straps.
Available in Blue, Black, Green, Red, Raspberry, and Maroon with sizes ranging from 10 inch to 30 inch
Read More Customer Reviews on Amazon
6. Timberwolf Extreme Wax Coat
- Ideal for The Larger Dog
- Waxed and Lined
- Safety Reflective Features
- Velcro Chest and Body Straps
A traditional blanket style dog coat, this Timberwolf Extreme Wax Coat is of superior quality, impregnated with a fine covering of wax.
The outer fabric, being waxed, acts as a water barrier, keeping your dog dry. The inner lining is cotton, keeping your dog warm.
Ease of putting on and taking off is provided by the Velcro chest and body straps as well as the elasticated leg straps.
Reflective piping ensures your dog is seen during the evening and in dim light situations.
The XX-Large size is typically suitable for dogs such as the Labrador and German Shepherd breeds.
Available in Brown, with sizes ranging from Small to XX-Large
Read More Customer Reviews on Amazon
7. Reflective Dog Coat by Weatherbeeta
- Reflective dog rug for road safety
- Adjustable touch tape closure
- 220g warm fill
- Waterproof and breathable
With its 300-denier waterproof, yet breathable outer fabric, rainwater just shakes off this dog coat from Weatherbeeta.
Warmth and comfort are provided with 220g of polyfill fibre.
Warm and comfortable the dog coat with its high visibility features ensures your dog is seen at night.
A must for any dog owner looking for a dog coat to keep their family canine warm and comfortable whilst keeping their dog visible and safe.
Available in Yellow with sizes ranging from 30cm to 70cm.
Read More Customer Reviews on Amazon
8. UBEST Dog Coat Waterproof Jacket
- Leash Attachment
- Water Resistant
- Zipper Closure
- Machine Washable
This water-resistant, padded jacket from UBEST comes with D-rings on the back, eliminating the need for a harness.
Being made from the same materials as a human puffa jacket ensures your dog is warm and dry during cold winter weather, especially when they’re out playing in the snow.
The zip along the back creates a unique look, secure fit and makes it really easy to put on and take off; the safeguard feature prevents your dog’s fur from getting stuck in the zipper.
The UBEST padded dog coat is perfect for chilly days, with its soft padding providing outstanding protection against wind and rain, D-rings to attach the leash, zipper for ease of use and machine washable.
Available in Black/Red with sizes ranging from Small to 5XLarge (25 cm to 51 cm)
Read More Customer Reviews on Amazon
9. Rosewood Options Water Resistant Dog Coat
- Water Resistant
- Reflective Strips
- Adjustable Fastenings
- Inner Fleece Lining
This dog coat by Rosewood features a water-resistant outer fabric to protect against wind and rain and an inner warm fleece to keep your pet warm on chilly days.
The fully adjustable fastenings make it quick and easy to put on and take off and the reflective strips ensure your dog is seen on those darker evening walks.
Suitable for the smaller dog or a puppy, this water-resistant dog coat is available in Red/Black, size 10-12 inch.
Read More Customer Reviews on Amazon
10. Muddy Paws Stormguard & Fleece Lined Coat
- Suitable for Use with Harness
- Slit for Leash
- Velcro Fastening
- Chest Guard & Leg Straps
This great performance dog coat by Muddy Paws offers great protection against the worst of the winter weather and is washable.
Waterproof and with a soft, fleece lining, this dog coat will keep your pet dry and warm.
Designed for all-weather use, it features a chest protector, Velcro fastening, elasticated leg straps, reflective edging and a slit for ease of attaching the lead.
Available in Red & Blue. Sizes range from Small (26 cm to 36 cm) to XX-Large (66 cm to 77 cm)
Read More Customer Reviews on Amazon
Winner: Editor’s Choice
The Winner of our Top 10 Dog Coats (for me), has to be the 2-in-1 Light Reflective Dog Coat. The fact that it can be used throughout the year due to its removable fleece lining is a huge bonus to me. My pup loves this coat, he wears it with the fleece lining during the winter, and thanks to the large reflective area, we can be seen during our evening walks. The collar can be pulled up against his neck on particularly cold and windy days to keep him warm and cosy. The outer is waterproof, making it perfect for all those rainy days throughout the year.
Conclusion: Top 10 Dog Coats
To conclude this article of our selection of Top 10 Dog Coats, we’ll run through the main points when you want to buy a coat for your pooch.
You should make sure that you measure correctly before you make any dog coat purchase – one brand’s size of ‘medium’ can vary widely to that of another brand. Take into account the thickness of your dog’s fur – a thickly furred pup will not need as warm a dog coat as a thin/short-haired one. Keep an eye on your dog, you will soon know if he/she needs helps to keep warm on chilly days.
All products in this article can be found on amazon, any links which are clicked and subsequently purchased may provide us (bowwowtech.co.uk) with a small commission. Any commissions earned are reinvested to enable us to produce more articles and provide educational material to visitors to our site.
Bowwowtech. co.uk does not provide veterinary advice. Our aim is to provide the reader with information to enable them to make a good decision when making a purchase. All content is therefore for informational purposes only.