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Choosing warm gear from our list of the best winter jackets for dogs can help your pup stay toasty and dry on the coldest and slushiest days of the year. Whether you and your pup are heading out for extended winter fun or just running out for a quick potty trip, adding extra layers of warmth and waterproof material can make the outing much more pleasant. But for some dogs, wearing a winter jacket is a must for their health.
For small dogs that have trouble retaining body heat, a winter coat or vest gives them an extra layer of insulation to help keep their little bodies warm. In older dogs, conditions such as arthritis and weakened immune systems can cause problems with temperature regulation, leaving pups to catch a chill. Even dogs with thick and long coats can feel discomfort in the cold as heat regulation declines with age. You can prepare for a dip in temperatures by bundling them up in a warm winter jacket.
Our list of the best winter jackets for dogs will help you find your pup’s perfect choice. But before we get to our favorites, here are a few things to think about before making your choice.
Things To Consider Before Buying Winter Jackets For Dogs
Climate
Depending on your region’s precipitation, temperature, and wind chill, your dog may need a fleece sweater or a warm, insulated winter coat. A coat with multiple layers and plenty of insulation may be necessary during extreme winter weather. When it’s snowing, raining, or hailing, you’ll need a water-resistant outer layer and a hood (if your dog is ok with it). When it’s windy, you’ll need the extra protection of windproof fabrics.
Material
It’s important to choose something durable. The seams and fasteners of a winter dog coat can quickly wear down when put on and taken off many times in a day. Depending on your dog’s breed and energy level, you may want to consider Velcro instead of zippers, buckles, D-rings, and snaps. Try choosing a fabric that can be machine washed to ensure a quick clean-up in case of an accident.
Sizing
Despite its obvious importance, sizing is crucial. To ensure your dog’s coat isn’t too long, measure his weight, neck length, and chest circumference. Sizing charts can be found on most manufacturers’ websites or in product descriptions. In addition to protecting your dog’s neck and belly, you’ll want to ensure your pup can move freely. Slipping in and out of the neck and leg holes should be an easy process too. They should not be too tight or too loose. Otherwise, chewing may occur.
Reflective Strips And Trim
Is your walking route surrounded by cars? Is it common for you to walk at night or in low light? Both you and your dog will be safer if you wear a winter dog coat with reflective materials.
The Best Winter Jackets For Dogs And Other Cold Weather Gear
1. iHeartDogs Buffalo Plaid with Paws Flannel Dog Vest: Best for Warmth & Style
In this cute and festive dog vest, your pup won’t mind braving the cold because the warmth of home always comes along, thanks to the double-lined flannel. Adjustable velcro straps make for a snug and comfy fit, while the cute design will make your dog the most stylish hound around. And while buffalo plaid is already adorable, we added pawprints to make it even more attractive. A slim keyhole allows easy leash attachment, so you’ll be ready for a walk in a snap. When it gets dirty, just toss it in the wash, and it’s ready again. Plus, for every flannel vest sold, we donate seven meals to hungry shelter dogs.
Key Features
- Stylish buffalo plaid with pawprints
- Adjustable velcro straps
- Fully-lined
- Machine washable
- Every purchase feeds hungry dogs
Pros
- Fully adjustable
- Double-lined flannel
- Available in sizes S-XXL
- Machine washable
Cons
- Your pup will wish you had a jacket to match theirs!
Any dog will find a fit with all the size options this heavy-duty jacket offers, and every dog parent will love the convenience of touch-tape closures. With a warm polyester lining, large collar, and full belly strap, your pup will stay toasty for the duration of your walk when dressed in this durable coat. The triple weave 1200 denier fabric is waterproof and breathable to keep your dog dry on the wettest days. And for walking at night, reflective strips provide high safety and visibility.
Key Features
- Waterproof and breathable
- Reflective strips for added safety
- Easy to put on and take off
- Leash hole opening
- Available in various sizes
- Available in multiple colors and patterns
- Machine washable
Pros
- Well made and warm
- Thick and sturdy
- Easy to put on
- Waterproof
- Full coverage for the chest and belly
Cons
The Canada Pooch North Pole Parka is stylish and keeps your dog warm and dry. The outer shell is completely water-resistant, and the lining is soft, warm fleece. It’s also insulated with thick faux-fur insulation for total warmth. And the faux-fur trimmed hood adds style to your dog’s look. The hood can be snapped into place to prevent it from falling forward. Moreover, this coat features dual Velcro closures on the chest and belly, making it easy to put on and take off. It also includes a spacious pocket! Your dog will be so warm and cozy with this cute coat.
Key Features
- Water-resistant
- Thick faux-fur insulation with a quilted look
- Faux-fur trimmed hood
- Ribbed cuff sleeves
- Dual Velcro closure on the chest/belly
- Available in black or red
Pros
- Stylish
- Great quality
- Easy to put on and take off
- Fits true to size
- Perfect for all dogs
- Water-resistant
Cons
- Overly-stiff Velcro closure on the chest/belly area
Keep your dog’s body temperature stable in cold weather with the Hurtta Summit Parka. It’s well suited for a quick stroll or a long hike, and taking it on and off your pup is fast and easy. Simply slide the jacket over their head and secure the buckle at their waist. Waterproof yet breathable Houndtex coating protects dogs from snow and light rain, while 3M reflectors provide nighttime visibility. The belt, collar, and back length can be adjusted for a perfect fit and freedom of movement. Loops on the back keep the jacket securely in place while keeping the wind out. Even if your dog doesn’t like coats, they won’t mind this insulated yet lightweight option.
Key Features
- High-visibility 3M reflectors
- High neck to protect from the wind
- Back leg attachment loops to secure the coat in place
- Harness and leash opening
- Lightweight
- Non-restricting
- Available in various colors
- Available in various sizes
- Designed for active dogs
- Machine-washable
Pros
- Super warm
- Lightweight
- Breathable
- Durable
- Waterproof
- High-visibility 3M reflectors
- Houndex coating
Cons
Featuring a two-tone reversible design, Kurgo Loft Jackets lend your dog two stylish looks. The vest-style coat allows your dog to move freely and stay warm without overheating, thanks to ripstop nylon and 140g Polytech fill. Lightweight but warm without the bulk, it’s an ideal choice for active and athletic dogs. No hoods or sleeves also allow ease of movement, and a zipper opening on the back offers easy access to a collar for attaching a leash or harness. Available in an array of color choices and made with reflective piping for visibility at night. Fits great even on wide-chested dogs like Bulldogs and Boxers. Plus, Kurgo offers a lifetime warranty.
Key Features
- Reversible design, 2 in 1 coat
- Vest-style for freedom of movement
- Ripstop rugged nylon
- 140g Polytech fill
- Reflective piping
- Zipper opening leash/harness access
- Water-resistant
- Velcro closure on the belly
- Machine washable, air dry
Pros
- Lightweight
- Fits great
- Keeps your dog dry
- Durable
- Waterproof
Cons
- Runs short on the back for some dogs
This stylish coat is the most popular choice among dog parents because of its affordability and reversible design. It’s like you get two coats in one. Durable, lightweight, and insulated with thick polyester fiber, it keeps the winter chill off your dog. And it’s waterproof! The plain side is ideal for keeping your pup warm and dry on rainy days or in wet snow conditions. Leashes or harnesses can be attached through the buttonhole, and the raised neck offers wind protection. As well as providing ample coverage, your dog can move freely without feeling restricted, thanks to its elastic chest design. The Velcro closures on the chest and neck make this coat easy to put on and take off.
Key Features
- Stylish and durable
- Waterproof, windproof, and warm
- Insulated with thick polyester fiber
- Made of polyester and terylene cotton
- Reversible design, 2 coats in 1
- Velcro closures around the neck and chest
- Elastic chest design
- Buttonhole for leash/harness
- Lifetime money-back guarantees
Pros
- Stylish
- Reversible design
- Well-made and durable
- Fully waterproof
- Washes well
Cons
- Velcro closure seems to bother some dogs
As a durable coat designed for hard-working dogs, the Carhartt Chore Coat promises to keep them warm and dry no matter the weather, thanks to 100% ringspun cotton duck canvas with water-repelling action. A quilted nylon lining adds extra insulation, while a corduroy-trimmed collar keeps your dog’s neck warm. The neck and chest are fully adjustable to ensure a comfortable and snug fit. Simply slide it over your dog’s body and secure the Velcro tabs at the neck and chest to put it on and take it off. Available in five colors, including Hunter Orange.
Key Features
- Quilted nylon lining for warmth
- Corduroy trimmed collar that tucks into the coat
- Easy on and off with adjustable Velcro tabs
- Two riveted pockets on each side for storage
- Machine washable
- Available in 5 colors, including Hunter Orange
- Available in 4 sizes
- Does not restrict movement
Pros
- Durable
- Designed for hunting and hard-working dogs
- Water-repellent
- Warm lining
- Easy to put on and take off
Cons
- No leash/harness hole opening
- Handwash only
When decking your dog out for winter, don’t forget the boots! These water-resistant canvas outdoor dog boots protect against snow, rain, and mud. And with fleece lining, they’ll keep your dog’s paws toasty warm all winter. Ultra-wide openings make it easy for any pet parent to put these durable boots on their dog. The Velcro strip helps to secure the boot around your dog’s leg to ensure the bootie does not fall off when walking.
This size two option is ideal for medium breeds, but Canada Pooch makes these boots in varying sizes so every pup can find a fit. And with rubber grips on the soles, these anti-slip boots are great for walking outdoors, even in the slippery, icy winter slush. To put them on, insert the paw, adjust the toggle at the top of the boot, wrap the reflective strap around the leg and use Velcro to secure it.
Key Features
- Anti-slip rubber
- Easy to wear
- Waterproof
- Velcro strap
- Paw protectors
Pros
- Designed for snow and rain
- Mud protection
- Ultra-wide opening
- Rubber grip on sole
- Pack of four boots
Cons
- Rubber sole becomes brittle with use
Keeping your dog warm in the winter can be a real challenge without Muttluks Original Fleece-Lined Boots. They protect dogs’ paws from ice, rain, salt, and snow in extreme cold and winter weather conditions. The soft shell outer fabric is waterproof, breathable, and windproof, ensuring warm paws even during the coldest winter days. Designed with specially formulated leather that adapts to the unique shapes and movements of your dog’s paws, these shoes offer barefoot comfort while protecting those sweet feet from the winter’s worst. Plus, reflective straps increase the safety and nighttime visibility of your dog for those adventures that continue long after the sun goes down.
Key Features
- Stretchy
- Leather soles
- Adjustable
- Reflective straps
- Blizzard-proof winter warmth
- Waterproof
- Flexible
- Reflective accents
Pros
- High-tech waterproof material
- Fleece inner lining
- Accented with reflective material
- Soft and comfy
- Flexible leather soles
- Breathable
Cons
- May wear out after a few months of heavy use
When gearing up for cold weather, ice melt products can be a great aid in helping your pup get their business done. And unlike traditional rock salt de-icers, Pet-Friendly Ice Melt is a time-released product made in the USA. Their non-hygroscopic ice melt is environmentally formulated with biodegradable soil-supporting compounds, making it less harmful to plant life than competitors. Natural Rapport’s Pet-Friendly Ice Melt also reduces corrosion rates on concrete, metal, and wood by 75%. The easy-to-apply cap allows you to use the perfect amount every time. Plus, the green-colored crystals won’t clump and helps you see exactly how much you’ve shaken out. Simple and effective, it saves you time and money while clearing a spot for your pup to go potty.
Key Features
- Fast-acting formula
- Organic technology
- Non-hygroscopic ice melt
- Easy to apply cap
Pros
- Safer for pets
- Works fast
- Safer for concrete, metal, and wood
Cons
With any of the choices on our list of the best winter jackets for dogs and other cold weather gear, your pup will be ready for whatever winter throws their way! Whether it’s snow, sleet, rain, or slush, a winter coat will keep your dog warm, toasty, and dry through all the chilly fun. Now, you and your pup get bundled up and get outside!
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