Best dog coats for wet walks, warmth and drying off

Dog running in snow wearing coat — (Image credit: Alamy Stock Photo)

Most dogs aren’t bothered by wintry weather, but just like humans, some feel the cold more than others. Many will be fine for short periods outside without wearing an extra layer. But if your dog has thin fur, minimal fat insulation – such as whippets and greyhounds – or they’re old, young, underweight, they’ll benefit from wearing a coat. And the best dog coats have all the features you may need – you can choose a waterproof dog coat, a warm one, a drying dog coat for after a wet walk, and dog coats with a harness hole for those who don’t use a traditional lead.

The best dog coats come in a wide range of sizes (chest, neck and length), so take care to measure your dog carefully and get the perfect fit. If you are using them for his walks in particular, then he needs to be able to move freely. There are specialist dog coats available in more extreme shapes such as dachshunds and greyhounds, so there’s no need for their haunches to be out in the cold!

Designed to allow you and your dog to spend longer outside, and minimise the impact of dirt and water on your return home. Features a layer of insulation filling to give some protection from the cold. The materials include Hydro-Comfort Technology making the material breathable and waterproof for maximum comfort. It also includes a reflective stripe along the side of the coat for night-time visibility.

Every dog needs a drying coat to keep him snug as he dries off after a wet walk or a bath. This “dog dressing gown” is ultra-absorbent yet breathable. It dries your dog quickly, with double-thickness towelling for comfort. Manufacturers say it is the number one multi-purpose dog towel robe on the market for indoor and outdoor use, as well as travel. It has also featured as a winner on BBC1’s The Customer is Always Right.

A dog coat’s principal function is to keep the dog warm when it would otherwise get too cold and start shivering. A dog’s need for a coat is dependent primarily on the individual – their breed, coat type and age. The type of coat required depends on the weather, and what the dog will be doing. An active dog on the go may still need a coat, for instance if they are a light build such as a whippet, or walking out in sub-zero temperatures and wintry wind. And so, we’ve selected a variety to suit all purposes, breeds, sizes and activities in a range of budgets.

Small or naturally lean breeds such as whippets feel the cold more than most, and so they will benefit from an extra layer. Some dogs will visibly shiver, especially if your daily walk doesn’t involve any vigorous exercise for them. Also puppies and senior dogs, particularly those with arthritis or weakened immunity, will enjoy a bit of pampering in cold weather. The less they move, they more they need additional insulation.

It really depends on the breed, and also the age and health of your dog – and it’s the same when it comes to deciding when it’s too cold to walk your dog. Thick-coated dogs do not need to wear coats at all. Huskies lie down and sleep on the snow without a second thought. As a general rule, when the temperature dips below around 5ºC, you may start considering a coat for dogs with short or medium fur, especially if they will be standing around for any length of time.

Chilly winds, snow and frost are all indicators that the weather is cold enough to merit putting your dog in a coat. However, for those dogs that are working hard outside – for example gundogs, huskies, pastoral breeds – a coat will be a hindrance, and likely to be completely unnecessary as they will generate body heat running around. But when they come home wet and muddy and need a bath, that’s the moment when one of the best dog drying coats will be hugely appreciated!