Buying guide for Best dog raincoats
You probably don't enjoy getting cold and soggy on rainy days, so why would your dog? The next time it rains, after you don your waterproof jacket, strap a dog raincoat onto your four-legged friend. You'll both stay warm and dry.
Hundreds of waterproof dog coats exist on the market. How do you sort the top-notch options from those best left on the shelf? There are a few things you'll want to consider, including the size of your dog and the climate you live in.
Key considerations
How big is your dog?
It's important to choose a raincoat that's the correct size for your dog. Some canine raincoats are only available in small or large sizes, so your dog may automatically be excluded. People with extra-small or extra-large dogs may need to search a little harder to find a raincoat that fits.
Once you've found a raincoat you like, measure your dog. Compare the measurements to the coat size guide to be certain you get the correct size. Sizes vary between brands and can be misleading. You might think of your pooch as a medium-size dog, but by another brand’s sizing, your pup may be a large or even an extra-large.
Do you want chest and belly protection?
Some dog raincoats offer protection down the chest and over much of the belly. You may or may not need this, depending on where you walk and how much your dog feels the cold. If you routinely walk through inches of mud and puddles, chest and belly protection is great for keeping your dog's underside warm, dry, and clean. Likewise, chest and belly protection is a boon for short-coated dogs who tend to get cold on rainy walks.
Some coats with chest and belly protection are put on the normal way but have a flap that must be fastened across the chest and belly afterward. Others require your dog to step into them; you then fasten the back.
How comfortable is your dog with the act of putting on a coat?
Some dog raincoats go over the head, like a sweater. Others are stepped into, as mentioned above. But for the majority of dog raincoats, you simply place the coat on your dog's back and fasten it around the chest and belly.
For nervous dogs — and dogs who aren’t fond of putting on coats at all — we highly recommend the latter type of raincoat, as it’s much less stressful.
Do you live in a cold climate?
While some dog raincoats are made of thin waterproof material, others have a padded lining for warmth. If you live in a cold climate, consider a well-padded raincoat for your dog. However, you live in a warmer climate, a lightweight raincoat is a better option. If you’re undecided, keep in mind that you could always layer a thin raincoat on top of a warmer dog sweater or coat on chilly days.
Features
Hoods
You can find dog raincoats with hoods, but these are more decorative than functional. The majority of dogs don't like wearing hoods, and the hood usually slips down anyway. The benefit of a hood on a canine raincoat is that it does provide some protection to the neck, even if you don't put it up.
Reflective strips
Although not all waterproof dog jackets feature reflective strips, many do. The strips provide extra visibility after dark and on overcast days, which is excellent for the safety of you and your four-legged friend.
Color
Great news for people who love bright colors and cute patterns: you can buy dog raincoats in a wide range of hues. We've seen everything from classic bright yellow to bubblegum pink. You'd certainly never lose track of your pooch at the dog park in something so distinctive! However, if you prefer a muted option, you can also find plenty of waterproof coats in blacks, blues, greens, grays, and so on.
Fastenings
Some fastening types are more convenient than others. Although standard buckles are secure, they take more time to fasten than Velcro or zippers. Snaps are also fairly quick to fasten, but they come undone more easily than some closure types.
Did you know?
If your chosen dog raincoat has chest and belly straps, they should be adjustable for a better fit.
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Dog raincoat prices
Basic dog raincoats start around $10 to $20. These tend to be lightweight with little padding. While this is fine for occasional use, it might not be the best choice if you live somewhere extremely wet.
Mid-range options cost roughly $20 to $50. You can find some excellent padded raincoats in this price range that are made by well-known brands.
High-end dog raincoats cost between $50 and $80. Expect these dog raincoats to be made of durable ripstop; a coat like this is ideal for regular use and for dogs who run off-leash through the undergrowth and occasionally snag their coats.
Tips
Be certain your chosen canine raincoat is truly waterproof. Some dog raincoats are more water-resistant than waterproof. Plus, cheap raincoats can have leaky seams, even if the manufacturer claims them to be waterproof.
Double-check sizing if your dog has a non-standard body shape. A dog with a deep chest or long body, for example, may not easily fit into a standard size.
- Pick a cut that won't interfere with your dog doing their business. Some dog raincoats are cut too far back on the belly, so it's hard for male dogs to urinate without making a mess.
FAQ
Q. Why should I buy a raincoat for my dog?
A. A raincoat can keep your dog warm and dry on wet days. If your canine companion is reluctant to go out in the rain, a waterproof coat might help them be brave enough to venture outside. A coat also helps keep your dog cleaner, particularly if you walk in muddy areas. Furthermore, getting soaked with rain can cause or exacerbate medical conditions in some dogs, such as rheumatism or limber tail, so a raincoat can help protect them.
Q. How do I keep my dog's raincoat clean?
A. The majority of dog raincoats can be machine washed and air-dried or machine dried on low. However, some require hand washing.
Q. Should I walk my dog in the rain?
A. As long as your dog is willing and doesn't have any health conditions that prevent it, there's no reason to let a spot of rain put you off your normal walking routine.
