With winter just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about how to keep your furry friend warm and comfortable during the colder months. A well-chosen coat can make a big difference, but with so many options available, it can be tough to know where to start. Here are five tips to help you pick the right coat for your dog.

1. Consider the Climate

The UK is generally pretty mild, but it’s also cold, windy, and very wet! As a result, it’s important to consider all three of the following elements to our Autumn/Winter climate when buying a coat(s):

  • Mild days: A lightweight fleece or softshell jacket can provide enough warmth for typical UK mild winter days.
  • Cold days: Opt for a thicker coat with insulation, such as one made of down or synthetic fill.
  • Wet and Windy days: A waterproof and windproof coat is essential for dogs living in the UK (because it rains nearly half the year!)

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2. Measure your Dog

This one is an important one to get right! You can’t just guesstimate and hope for the best, you need to make sure that you get accurate measurements by measuring your dog’s neck, chest, and back length to ensure a proper fit. You also need to make sure that your dog has room to move; the coat should be snug but not too tight, allowing your dog to move freely and not look like a sausage in its casing!

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3. Prioritise Comfort and Safety

You want your dog to be safe and comfortable, of course you do. So make sure to choose a coat made from soft, breathable materials that won’t irritate your dog’s skin. Also, consider a coat with reflective strips or bright colours to improve visibility during low-light conditions – you can also buy little clip-on lights or LED collars to ensure your dog is seen in the dark. If your dog wears a harness, ensure the coat has openings for the straps – some coats have a harness built-in, so will be worth considering.

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4. Think About your Dog’s Lifestyle

There’s no point in going all-out on an expensive hiking-gear coat for your coach potato pooch, so consider their activity level.

  • Active Dogs: A coat with extra insulation and warmth is ideal for dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors. Consider the hardiness of the coat too – will it stand up to wear and tear and forest floors?
  • Not-so Active Dogs: A lighter coat or a sweater can be sufficient for dogs that primarily stay indoors or just venture outside down the street.

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5. Personalise your Dog’s Look

If it’s not fashion it’s not fun! From classic parkas to stylish hoodies, there are countless options to choose from. Explore the variety of coats to choose from. And don’t forget to accessorise!  Add a scarf or a hat to complete your dog’s winter look.

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