Emma walked her beagle on their evening stroll. The wind was sharp and the ground frozen and her breath rose in mist. Max was not his usual self. He lagged behind with his tail tucked and his body shivering. Emma thought it was the wind but soon she realized she was wrong.
That stroll served as Emma’s wake up call. Not all dogs are born with a natural defense against the weather. Short haired, small, and even older dogs are often miserable in bad weather. That’s when a quality dog coat comes into play both as a stylish statement and a comfort and health necessity.
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When it comes to choosing the right dog coat, it’s about providing them with the comfort to enjoy all the seasons without wincing. From puffy winter coats to light summer sweaters, the correct coat can be the difference between a dismal walk and a joyful excursion.
Choosing the Right Dog Coat Is Not Difficult Anymore
So where do you even begin when choosing the right dog coat? With that many designs and materials available, it can feel slightly daunting. The secret is to imagine your dog’s coat like your wardrobe.
First, take into consideration the breed and lifestyle of your dog. Short haired puppies, older dogs, and small breeds are the most probable to appreciate a coat during cold weather.
Secondly, reflect upon the climate you reside in. If you live in a rainy metropolitan area, a water resistant style would be a godsend. Conversely, dogs in desert climates would benefit from air permeable materials to prevent overheating.
A quick checklist is the trick. Comfort comes first. Functionality is second. Looks are the third priority. Ensure that the coat fits comfortably. It does not impede movement and is constructed of appropriate material for the weather. After these basics are taken care of, you can totally go wild selecting colors or patterns that reflect your dog’s personality.
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How to Choose The Best Dog Coat
When winter weather comes calling we are not the only ones who struggle to stay warm and dry. Our dogs feel the chill too and a coat can be the difference between a shivering pup and a happy walk. Bad weather does not have to mean a day stuck indoors now.
Dogs handle the cold differently depending on their age, coat thickness, and body type. One thin coat is not enough in winter. Your furry companion can feel the cold if they are small, close to the ground, or have joint pain. A coat keeps their belly warm and shields the body from wind and frost. Lets dive into some of the best winter coats for dogs we’ve cherry picked for you.
Fleece-Lined Dog Coat
One of the favorite options for dogs, due to its design that will let them still move naturally are dog jackets. They feature a warm fleece lining made from wool or outdoor materials. The coat is very compact in the wardrobe and still provides ample protection for the body of the dog.
Eco Puffer Coats
Eco puffer jackets are traditional winter apparel for canines. Quilted compartments with heavy padding make them that much warmer. They often feature hoods and faux fur collars, but real fur is something to avoid. These are great for cold quick dogs or ones who have to be out in the snow for extended periods of time.
Petrageous Juneau Coat
The Petrageous Juneau Coat is an excellent waterproof jacket for everyday walks. It will also not be heavy on your pocket.We recommend outfitting your pup in one of the best raincoats for dogs when temperatures are mild.
Weatherbeeta ComFiTech Premier Free Parka Deluxe Dog Coat
The Weatherbeeta ComFiTech Premier Free Parka Deluxe Dog Coat was a front-runner for best overall dog coat.
This coat was the easiest to get on and off of all the options in our pool. Simply pull the jacket over your dog’s head, then attach the two Velcro straps on either side. Buckles or closures are not your headache anymore.
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How to Measure a Dog for a Coat
First you are going to use a tape measure. You can also use a string or a ruler if you don’t have one.
Start with the back length. Have your dog stand naturally on all fours and measure from where the neck meets the shoulders (around where the collar sits) all the way to the base of the tail. This tells you how much coverage the coat needs.
Next is the chest girth. Wrap a tape measure around the widest part of the rib cage, just behind the front legs.
Finally, measure the neck girth where your dog’s collar usually sits. You should leave a little bit of extra room, maybe a finger or two between your dog’s neck and chest just to make sure they have enough wiggle room for when they get the zoomies.
Waterproof Dog Jackets
Rainy strolls need not conclude in a soaked pup. Waterproof dog coats render your furry pal dry, and content no matter what the intensity of the drizzle. They are constructed with durable materials such as nylon or polyester. They shield from rain and wind. No one likes a wet doggy! We have handpicked some of the top choices for you!
Ruffwear Jet Stream Cooling Vest
The Ruffwear Jet Stream dog cooling vest efficiently cools dogs during light and fast, high intensity adventures through shading and evaporative cooling feature.
Hurtta Cooling Dog Vest
With Hurtta cooling products you can make your dog feel comfortable even in warm temperatures. Do not forget to watch your dog’s condition closely outside. All Hurtta dog cooling products are non-toxic and safe, since their operation relies on the cooling effect of evaporating water.
L.L.Bean Squall Hardshell Dog Jacket
This classic hardshell jacket is tough on rain but soft on comfort. Made with a water repellent nylon outer shell and lined with cozy fleece, it shields dogs from both rain and chilly winds. The Velcro straps make dressing your pup quick and painless. It’s basically the doggy version of your favorite weatherproof jacket.
Laura’s dog Milo used to hate rainy walks. He shivered and rushed home at the first drop of rain. Then Laura tried one of the above-mentioned waterproof jackets. Milo stayed dry and warm and even wanted to keep walking. Now rainy days mean happy strolls instead of cancelled plans.
Read more: waterproof dog coats
Breathable Dog Coats for Summer
Who says dog coats are just for winter? The breathable dog coats for summers do more than shield your pup from a chilly breeze. They’re designed for comfort, protection, and style your dog desires. Your pup can wear a coat even in the sun without melting that keeps it ready for walks every time.
Dog Core Cooling Vest
The Core Cooling Vest is a fur coat you can never really take off. Simply wet the vest with cool water, wring it out, and strap it on. As the water evaporates, it takes your dog’s body heat with it, keeping him fresh and comfy. Re wet as many times as is necessary to make it to the end of the outing.
Crufts Pet Cooling Vest
Hot days don’t have to slow your pup down. The Crufts Pet Cooling Vest is to keep dogs cool as a cucumber, even in the summer sun. Simply soak it in water, wring it out, and let your dog wear it.. The evaporative cooling effect does the rest. No more “hot-dog days” where your furry friend is panting in the shade.
Jake’s Labrador Bella used to dread summer walks. She panted heavily, slowed down quickly, and wanted to head back home. After Jake tried the summer coats for dogs, things changed. Bella stayed cool and energetic, even under the midday sun. Now instead of hiding from the heat, she happily trots alongside Jake, tail wagging all the way.
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Lightweight Dog Coats
Trail Light Dog Jacket
An ultralight emergency jacket for dogs, providing a protective shield against wind, rain and snow. This dog jacket packs into itself, making it easy to bring along on all types of activities.
Dog Lightweight Windbreaker
A windbreaker is similar to your dog’s daily hoodie. Perfect for spring, fall, or breezy park walks, these jackets slip on and often have reflective strips for visibility. They fold up so compactly that you can carry one anywhere and be ready when the gusts arrive.
Lelepet Reversible Dog Puffer Jacket
This plush dog coat is constructed from high-quality polyester that provides windproof and water-resistant protection in the cold winter season. The heavy filling is lightweight and soft, keeping your dog warm and comfortable while avoiding the feeling of being heavy.
A Colorado backcountry hiker learned the importance of selecting the proper dog coat when her border collie encountered an unexpected snowstorm. The Dog lightweight windbreaker she had brought along preserved him from wetness and cooled him sufficiently to finish the hike without any problems.
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Conclusion
Dogs might not be able to inform us that it is cold to the bone or that rain pinches like needles.
But drooping tails and shakes of their furry bodies convey it all. Weather will always ruin the best of plans and choosing the right dog coat can swing things around overnight. It is a protection that makes your friend warm, dry, and ready for action.
From puffer coats that trounce the cold to light windbreakers for windy strolls, options today turn over no stone. Choosing the right dog coat means your pet gets to experience every walk in rain or shine. The entire world is a little lighter when your dog struts along with a bounce in his stride.