The best dog coats aren't always just for fun or a statement, they are genuinely beneficial dog walking accessories that will help keep your pup warm in colder weather. Some breeds of dogs do not have thick enough fur to keep warm in the chilly winter months, so a dog coat would be a massive advantage for them to feel comfortable.
Dog coats come available in a variety of sizes to fit all dogs, big or small. They are also normally windproof and water-resistant dog coats - keeping your dog warm and dry on walks through the inevitably rainy British seasons. If you love heading out for nighttime adventures with your pooch or need to nip out in low-light conditions, such as fog, you may want to consider getting a coat that has reflective strips. The reflective detailing will help cars, bikes, pedestrians and other hazards to see them, helping to keep your four-legged friend safe in the dark while putting your mind to rest on night walks.
Best dog coats at a glance:
• Best dog coat overall: ANCOL Muddy Paws Stormguard Coat – View on Amazon UK
• Best waterproof dog coat: Mikki All Weather Coat for Dogs & Puppies – View on Amazon UK
• Best reflective dog coat: REFLECT360 Reflective Waterproof Dog Jacket – View on Mountain Warehouse
When it comes to choosing a coat for dogs, remember that while all the features make them more practical, the most important thing is that your pup feels happy and content wearing it. Just like when humans try on clothes, you will be able to tell if your dog feels uncomfortable in their coat. You'll want to make sure your pup can move freely in the coat and do normal actions such as running, playing and going to the toilet without feeling restricted.
As well as being practical, dog coats can also be a fashion statement so if you want your pooch to be the envy of all their furry friends in the park, make sure you're choosing a coat that will win them points in the style stakes, too. We've rounded up all of the best dog coats that get big ticks from us for being practical and stylish - just don't forget to pick up a dog walking coat for yourself and then the both of you will be ready for whatever the great outdoors throws at you.
Best dog coats UK
Best dog coat overall
ANCOL/AmazonFor a coat that has both practicality and style in equal measure, consider the ANCOL Muddy Paws Stormguard Coat. It has a waterproof surface to keep the wet away from your pooch plus a cosy fleece lining inside for extra comfort and warmth on chilly days. The overall style and brown colour look very luxe and we love that it is an affordable coat that doesn't skimp on quality.
Customers online love how lightweight and easy to clean this jacket is as it's machine washable at 30 but is also the kind of material that's very easy to wipe clean for lighter dustings of mud and dirt. Some reviewers had issues with trying to find the right size for their pooch but found that the fact the fastening around the middle is Velcro and that it has leg straps too made getting the paw-fect fit easier.
Pros
- Both practical and stylish
- Cosy fleece lining inside for extra warmth
- Can be machine washed on 30 as well as wiped clean
Cons
- Some reviewers had issues with selecting the right size so we'd recommend checking the size guide
| Sizes: | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
Best waterproof dog coat
Mikki/AmazonDesigned with waterproof, windproof, and breathable materials, the Mikki All Weather Coat guarantees your dog stays comfortable and well-protected in any weather. The coat's two-legged design extends over the hips and thighs for added coverage, while reflective details improve visibility during low-light walks. With a full-length zip along the back, it’s easy to put on or remove, and adjustable toggles and pop fasteners allow you to customise the fit for your dog.
Pet owners praise the coat for its lightweight construction and the convenient harness opening that prevents it from interfering with a lead. Some reviewers mentioned that additional padding would be nice for extra warmth on colder days but still appreciate its effective windproof and waterproof design.
Pros
- Jacket has an opening for harness attachment
- You can adjust the fit of the coat with the toggles and popper fastenings
- Offers a good amount of coverage so it has a two-legged design with coverage over the hips and thighs too
Cons
- Some reviewers wished this coat had additional padding to keep their pooch warmer on cooler days
| Sizes: | S, M, L, XL |
Best reflective dog coat
REFLECT360
When visibility drops on dark, rainy, or foggy days, keeping your dog safe becomes a top priority. The REFLECT360 Reflective Waterproof Dog Jacket offers a standout solution with its fully reflective design, making it easy for your dog to be seen during low-light walks. By day, it’s a subtle grey, but when hit by headlights or a flashlight at night, the entire coat shines brightly, enhancing your dog’s visibility.
In addition to its reflective properties, the jacket is easy to put on, featuring an adjustable neck and chest strap for a comfortable, secure fit. It also includes a convenient harness hole, allowing you to attach a lead without compromising on your dog’s usual walking gear. While it may not be the most fashion-forward choice, the REFLECT360 excels in functionality, with its safety-focused design and added bonus of being waterproof to protect your pup from the rain.
Pros
- Makes sure your dog is visible in low-light conditions as it's super reflective
- Ensures the fit is snug but not restrictive as it has an adjustable neck and chest strap for the paw-fect fit
- Your pup will still be able to wear their harness etc. underneath as the coat is designed with a harness attachment hole
Cons
- The design isn't as stylish as others on our list
| Sizes: | XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL |
Best dog coat for size range
Idepet/AmazonWith a size range starting at small and going all the way up to 5XL, the Idepet Waterproof Dog Coat will be practical for pretty much every breed and size dog. Made from a mix of Nylon and Polyester, this coat is padded so it's sure to keep your pooch warm when you're heading out on a chilly walk and the outer is waterproof too so you shouldn't have a soggy doggy on your hands if you get caught in a shower on your walks. On each side of the zipper, you'll find a D-ring so you can easily attach your pup's lead to it.
This coat is one that comes highly recommended by real-life pet owners on Amazon, with over 9,400 reviews. Some of those reviewers did wish the zip was of better quality as it often got caught in loose material. However, areas it ranks highly for are the fact it's lightweight and easy to clean as well as being water resistant and providing warmth.
Pros
- Impressive size range from small all the way to a 5XL
- Padded to keep your pooch warm
- Material is waterproof to prevent your pooch from getting wet if you get caught in a shower
Cons
- Some reviewers felt the zip could be better quality
| Sizes: | S, M, L, XL, 2XL, XXL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL |
Best for style
With a dog coat as stylish as this Joules Cherington Dog Coat, looking good will be a walk in the park. Inspired by Joules' best-loved Cherington Coat for humans, you can now pair up with your pooch and twin with your furry bestie. Perfect for winter walks, it will provide extra warmth, even on the coldest of days, with its faux-fur trim for a parka-style look but if it's raining, you can easily remove the fluff to stop it from getting soggy. It's made from recycled materials and can be washed on a cool cycle too.
Customers online say this coat is of good quality and the sizing is pretty spot on too, although note this coat is suitable for medium breeds so if your pup is smaller or larger than that, it won't be suitable.
Pros
- Stylish, parka-look with detachable fur
- Made from recycled materials
- Machine washable at 30°C
Cons
- Only suitable for medium breeds
| Sizes | Medium |
Best zip-up dog coat
Morezi/AmazonHow adorable is this hooded yellow dog raincoat? Now you and your four-legged pal will stand out in the crowd in this stylish, vibrant Morezi Dog Zip Up Dog Raincoat with its nautical-inspired internal lining. Just like a human raincoat, it does up with a zipper and has buttons across the chest for an extra secure fit. If your pup has little legs, you can roll up the sleeves so that their movement isn't restricted. The coat is designed with a harness hole for practicality and it's also got pockets in the back so you can pop poop bags inside or your pup's favourite treat for being a good doggo on their walk.
In terms of sizing, some customers struggled with getting the right size for their pooch, especially those with larger breeds. Many customers recommended sizing up and the brand says you should measure the thickest part of your pet's chest and add 2cm to find the perfect size. That being said, customers rate this coat highly for being a quailty, comfortable coat that looks stylish while also being waterproof so it'll keep their dogs dry in the rain.
Pros
- Stylish yellow design with nautical-inspired lining
- Sleeves can be rolled up so it doesn't restrict the movement of pups with shorter legs
- Comes complete with a pocket that you can pop poop bags or a treat inside
Cons
- Some customers has issues with finding the perfect fit for their pooch so it is recommended you size up
| Sizes: | X-Small (38-42cm chest), Small (43-49cm chest), Medium (49-58cm chest), Large (606-9cm chest), X-Large (72-80cm chest), XX-Large (86-98cm chest) |
Luxury dog coat
Barbourwww.johnlewis.com
For dogs who live a life of luxury, why not get them their very own Barbour coat? This Barbour 2 in 1 Wax Dog Coat is a doggy version of the brand's famous wax jackets so it's ideal for any outdoor pursuits you and your pooch go on. What stands out the most for us with this jacket is the fact that the faux fur lining can be detached so on those days where it's warm but showery (think spring, summer and even autumn in the UK) your pup can stay dry without overheating and then the minute the temperature drops, you can re-add the furry inner to keep your pooch nice and toasty. It has a Veclro belt around the middle for easy fastening as well as style, plus a storage pocket at the back for those all-important treats.
Customers love the fact this coat can be used all throughout the year and they can adapt it to suit the weather outside. Customers do mention this is a more premium product but say the quality speaks for itself and is completely worth it.
Pros
- A doggy version of Barbour's famous waxed jackets so ideal for exploring the outdoors
- Designed so the faux fur inner can be removed so this coat can be used all year-round
- Storage pocket at the back to put treats and poop bags
Cons
- Customers online say this coat is a more premium product, however the quality of it is completely worth it
| Sizes available: | Small, Medium, Large |
Tested
Best dog coat with in-built harness
pawfect4pets.co.uk
This Pawpect4Pets Waterproof Dog Jacket with Harness is warm and comfy but also lightweight and breathable. It features a clever in-built harness with adjustable straps which means you can attach your dog's lead straight to the jacket via two D-rings and there's no need to worry about trying to get access to your hound's harness while they're wearing their coat.
It's waterproof with fluffy fleece lining inside so your pup will be able to stay warm as well as dry during showery walks. Our reviewer Natalie was particularly impressed with the size range of this jacket as it goes all the way up from a small to a 5XL. After measuring Dash, she chose a size medium but recommends that if your pup is in between sizes to size up to ensure the fit is snug but not too tight.
Reviewed by Commercial Content Editor, Natalie Corner and her pooch, Dash: "I've bought a fair few dog jackets for my pooch (pictured) and this is definitely the best one. I measured just behind his front legs and around his chest to get the right size, but I'd say if your pup is in between sizes, I'd recommended to order the next size up to get the perfect fit. It's so easy to slip-on and the zipper on the back means it's a snug fit but not too tight, he loves wearing it! It came in handy with the recent stormy weather!"
Pros
- Designed with a built-in harness for ease and safety
- Fleece-lined to keep your pooch warm on cold days
- Impressive size range from small up to 5XL
Cons
- We'd recommend sizing up if your pooch is in between sizes to ensure the fit is snug but not too tight
| Sizes | Small, Medium, Large, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL |
How we chose the best dog coats
All of these coats for dogs have been hand-selected by our team of Take A Break Pets shopping experts. We carefully considered waterproofing, warmth and quality in our selection of the best. Our team has spent hours investigating and researching dog coats to make it easier for you to find the very best, and we'd never recommend a product we don't believe in.
With pets big and small on our team, where possible we'll share the best products that have been tried and tested by our own furry friends who have given their paw of approval. And, with help from veterinary experts, we share their knowledge to ensure everything we choose is paw-fect for your pet.
Best dog coat FAQs
Do dogs need to wear a coat?
Most dogs can handle small periods in cold weather, but certain breeds feel the cold more than others, and your dog will benefit from wearing a coat. Additionally, If dogs are older, ill, or have thin furs such as whippets or greyhounds then they will benefit from a dog coat as they feel the cold much faster.
How do I keep my dog safe in the cold?
As things are getting a little chilly outdoors, it's very important to keep our dogs healthy and happy. So, we've got some expert tips on how to keep your pooch safe in the cold with the help of John Smith, pet expert and founder of a personalised shop for pet lovers, Yappy.com:
1. They may need an extra layer - as your dog can feel the cold just like you. It's worth investing in some thicker, warmer coats for winter walks. Breeds that "struggle when temperatures dip include small dogs such as Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers," according to John. Also, breeds with thinner hair (such as Greyhounds and Great Danes) also "struggle to maintain a warm body temperature". On the other hand, a Siberian Husky or Alaskan Malamute - with their beautiful, thick coats - will be able to cope with the cold "without any extra protection".
2. If the temperature is too low, stay indoors - as this is too much of a risk for your pup ", especially for smaller dogs with thinner coats," says John. If the temperature has dropped below -7, you're better off not taking your dog for a walk. As an alternative, John suggests "spending some time playing with them indoors" instead.
3. Look out for signs when you're out for a walk - as these will let you know if it's too cold for your dog. If they start "shivering, whining, or licking their paws, then that's a clear sign your dog is uncomfortable, and it's best to head home," says John. Believe it or not: dogs can get hypothermia, too. Make sure to be aware of these signs, too. John lists them as "shaking, lethargy, dilated pupils and a low heart rate". If you're concerned, you must wrap them up warm in a blanket or dog towel - and seek emergency assistance from your vet.
4. Don't leave them in the car - during the summer months - and the winter months, too. In the winter months, your car won't overheat, however, "the temperature in the car can often be the same as the temperature of a refrigerator". Therefore, John adds that leaving your dog in the car during the winter can increase the risk of hypothermia.
5. Check their paws! - is John's final tip. Unfortunately, ice, snow and grit can often wear down their pads. This "can be painful and uncomfortable for your dog," says John. Plus, it's very common for their little noses to become "dry, crackled and bleed" during the colder months when being outside. John suggests investing in nose and paw balm. Hopefully, this will "keep their paws and nose moisturised" during the winter months - and prevent cracking.
What temperature does a dog need a coat?
Here's a handy guide on what temperature a dog may need a coat:
Below 10⁰C - Some small to medium-sized dogs might need to be walked in a jumper or coat depending on the length of their fur, activity levels, and how long they'll be outside.
Below 5⁰C - Certain larger dog breeds can be affected by the cold weather and may need to wear a coat. Pay close attention to their fur length, time spent outside, and behaviour when in the cold.
Minus 5⁰C or less - Although you know your dog best, please be wary when walking any breed or size of the dog in such low temperatures as this can cause frostbite and paw injuries.
How do I measure my dog for a coat?
In order to measure your dog, you will need to take three measurements:
Chest: Start by measuring the thickest part of your dog's chest which is behind their front legs. Allow for a few extra centimetres when choosing the size so they can have extra room for mobility.
Length: To measure the length of your dog, make sure your dog is standing properly and not sitting or lying down. Start by measuring along your dog's backbone from the base of the neck to 5cm from the base of the tail.
Neck: The last measurement you need to take is around the girth of the neck and add a couple of centimetres to allow room for movement and for a dog lead.
Rosie Floyd is a Senior Home & Pets Product Writer for Take A Break Pets, specialising in all things dogs. She grew up always having at least one dog as part of the family and has experience in owning a variety of breeds, including Labradors, Cockapoos and Yorkshire Terriers.