You might not think your dog needs one of the best waterproof dog coats – after all isn’t that what nature gave him? However, most dogs don’t actually love wet and windy weather, and the best waterproof dog coats will prevent his fur getting drenched and him soaked to the skin.
Even those dogs that look like they’re enjoying themselves on a rainy walk (looking at you, springer spaniels), will come home shivering and sorry for themselves if they spend too long outside in a downpour. And some dogs simply won’t step outside on a wet day, so for dogs that feel the elements, a waterproof coat may ensure they get the exercise they need. And from a human perspective, wet dogs smell and take a long time to dry – unless you have one of the best dog drying coats!
Best waterproof dog coats
Fjord Raincoat
Sizes: 14 sizes
Colour: Black, blue, purple, orange/black, dark grey/green
This company, Non-Stop Dogwear, is a Norwegian brand which specialises in durable, functional and ergonomically designed products. As befits a product made in much harsher, more wintry climes than we experience in the UK, this is highly waterproof and windproof. It has a durable polyester shell to protect your dog from the elements, with a 15,000mm water column (a way of measuring waterproofness, meaning the garment can handle a 15m high pipe filled with water against the fabric, without the water penetrating). The breathable membrane allows ventilation and reduces condensation. Plus, it has drainage holes in the chest area, which prevent water collecting there.
I tested this coat on my spaniel Fidget and I was seriously impressed. Like most springers, Fidget is highly active and doesn’t really see the need for a coat, but he barely noticed this one. The fit is fantastic. Most coats slip when Fidget starts dashing about in the undergrowth or running full-pelt, but this allows him to move freely, while leg straps keep the coat in position. I like the cinch points that can be tightened for a perfect fit. It’s lightweight so ideal for active dogs who warm up running around – perhaps with a more sedate animal you could put a fleece on underneath. It’s also stylish – I love the high neck, which looks good as well as being practical for further protection.
We went out in horrid wintry weather, and Fidget returned home largely dry and very contented, and I didn’t have to spend time drying him off. I’d give this coat a maximum five stars!
Henry Wag Waterproof Dog Coat
Sizes: XS–XXL
Colour: Blue/grey
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.
Accessories include a lead and harness access slot with protective flap cover, and a reflective stripe along the side of the coat for night-time visibility.
Adjustable collar for a snug fit, and an elastic head hole to ensure even broad-headed breeds can be easily dressed, as well as elastic leg straps to keep the coat in place.
WeatherBeeta Explorer Dog Coat
Sizes: 25–80cm
Colour: Navy
Designed with the idea that you can go and explore anywhere, at any time. It has a waterproof ripstop polyester outer with really soft lining and a warm 160g polyfill, and a belly wrap with adjustment points for the perfect fit.
The waterproof zipped harness/leash hole making it compatible with both collars and harnesses, and the two draw strings and toggles allow adjustment for the neck collar for ultimate fit, with stretch fabric around leg arches for comfort and to prevent rubbing. The reflective logo and piping increases visibility in the dark, too.
Ancol Muddy Paws Stormguard Dog Coat
Sizes: XS–XXL
Colours: Bright pink, navy, red, chocolate or high-vis
This pragmatic coat has been inspired by professional outdoor pursuits clothing. It has a cosy fleece lining to insulate your dog from the cold, an enduring waterproof exterior to keep them dry and a chest protector strap to keep them clean and dry from puddles.
It features an elasticated neck for easy removal and snug fit, elasticated back straps, reflective edging tape for visibility and a neck flap with lead slot.
Morezi Greyhound Waterproof Coat
Sizes: XS–XXXL
Colour: Red, pink or navy
Whippets and greyhounds tend to feel the cold more than most dogs, due to carrying minimal fat. These coats are contoured specifically for the shape of the greyhound, whippet and lurcher breeds, and with seven available sizes, you should be able to get the perfect fit.
They have a waterproof outer layer, an inner fleece and an adjustable drawstring round the high collar to keep the draughts out. There is also a reflective section and piping round the coat for visibility in low light. There is also a harness hole.
Morezi Dachshund Waterproof Coat
Sizes: S–L
Colours: Red or navy
A waterproof dog fleece coat with a specially contoured shape to suit dachshunds, corgis and other long-backed short-legged breeds.
It has a strong durable outer fabric, with quick fastening adjustable body and front straps. There is a harness hole on the upper back of the jacket.
Trespaws Seadog Dog Waterproof Coat
Sizes: XXS–L
Colour: Yellow
A dog raincoat with a hood that packs away into a pocket. Made from waterproof fabric with reflective trims. It has a harness access point, and adjustable hook and loop fastenings.
The hood might be more of a fun accessory than a genuinely useful item, but for dogs that spend more time on the pavement than in and out of brambles, this is an eye-catching outfit!
Barbour Waterproof Dog Coat
Sizes: XS to XL
Colour: Olive
Waterproof coat with a tartan lining and cord collar. It has reflective trim for improved visibility and a keyhole opening for a harness. Barbour is well known for making weatherproof outdoor clothing. Iconic and authentic, Barbour thrives on the unique values of the British countryside, so your dog will look and feel the part.
How to choose the best waterproof dog coat
Material is key when it comes to choosing the best waterproof dog coats. It should be lightweight and breathable to enable your dog to exercise as normal without being weighed down or restricted. The correct size and fit is also vital to enable him to move freely. Some manufacturers make breed-specific coats, for example for greyhounds and dachshunds, appropriate for the variety in shapes, which is something to bear in mind.
Is dog fur water resistant?
There are certain dog breeds that can cope better with wet weather than others. Typically, you’ll find that these are the dogs that are bred to work in or around water, and those that love to swim. For example, Newfoundlands were bred to work on ships and even in life-saving duties. Labradors originally worked alongside fishermen, while poodles, the Nova Scotia Duck-Tolling and Chesapeake Bay Retriever were bred to retrieve waterfowl, and the otterhound to hunt – no surprises here – otters.
Water-loving breeds tend to have thick double coats, with a layer of oil that not only repels water, but also provides the dog with insulation from the cold and wet. However, they are only water-resistant not hermetically waterproof, and the longer they stay out in the wet, the more soaked those thick coats will get.
On the other hand, there are other breeds with fine, single-layer coats, that really feel the cold once they get wet. These are the breeds that will particularly benefit from adding a waterproof layer.
How to wash a waterproof dog coat
As with all waterproof fabrics, including those used for human garments, the less detergent and soap used on them the better as this can affect the coat’s waterproof properties. Lightly brush off surface dirt and mud.
Check the care label, as it should give specific instructions, but typically they should be washed on a gentle cycle, at a maximum of 30º with a slow spin, using a standard non-biological soap or a waterproof washing liquid. Never use fabric softener on waterproof materials.
Check out this advice for keeping horse rugs waterproof, which follows the same principles.
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No need for a drip dry: the best drying coats for wet dogs
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Squeaky clean: dog shampoos to wash, condition and nurture healthy coats
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