Inner Wolf Blog

When it comes to keeping your pup warm and dry, the question of whether or not they should wear a waterproof dog coat is one that often comes up. While there are a few factors to consider, the answer is generally yes. Here are a few reasons why.

Benefits of a Waterproof Dog Coat

There are a number of benefits to having your dog wear a waterproof dog coat. The most obvious one is that it will keep them dry and warm. This is especially important during the winter months, when temperatures can drop and rain and snow can make for a cold, wet day. Additionally, a waterproof dog coat can help protect your pup from dirt and mud, which can be especially helpful if they are an active pup who loves to explore.

However, one of the main benefits and actually a reason most people buy a dog coat is not for your dog’s benefit, as such, but for your own. That is to make the post walk clean up far easier. Simply removing a wet, and possibly dirty, dog coat is easier than having to towel off and have a damp dog for several hours. The smell, we all know that wet dog smell.

Types of Dog Coats

When it comes to finding the right waterproof coat for your pup, there are a few different types to choose from. The most common type is a raincoat, which is designed to be lightweight and keep your dog dry in wet weather. Most waterproof dog coats also have the benefit of keeping the wind off. Your dog's own insulating layer of hair then keeps them warm.

There are also winter jackets, which are designed to be warm as well as waterproof, and can be a great option for active pups. You then have a winter dog coat which are better suited to dogs with finer coats like, Boxers, Vizslas and Staffies etc. These also offer your dog a warm insulating layer keeping them warm as well as dry in the coldest of conditions. An excellent example of this type of th coat is the  Hurtta Expedition Parka

Finally, there are warm dog coats: fleece or knitted jackets, which are great for keeping your pup warm in dry conditions when they are outside, but can also be used indoors during cold nights.

Things to Consider

When it comes to buying a waterproof coat for your dog, there are a few things to consider. First, you’ll want to make sure that it fits properly. We have a  measuring guide video here to help explain how best to do this. We do try to avoid breed guides as a rule. This is because so many dogs do not fit in the breed standard, which is what these are based on. Also with so many crossbreeds (with special names) these also vary hugely in shape and size. We always recommend going on a measurement. 

Another matter to bear in mind too is the reference of sizes. A small in one make of coat will differ from a small in another make, and so on. Also this DOES NOT refer to what you consider your dog in size to be. It’s not, ‘Oh, I have a SMALL dog, therefore I’ll buy a small.’ Always measure! Most coats use back length as the size, the chest girth is adjustable.

A coat that is too tight or too loose can be uncomfortable for your dog and not sit correctly. Additionally, you’ll want to make sure that the coat is made of a material that is comfortable for your dog, as some materials can be itchy or uncomfortable. Finally, you’ll want to make sure that the coat is easy to clean, as it will likely get dirty from time to time.

There is also the issue of leg straps and whether or not to use them. At Inner Wolf we recommend only using them when needed. If the coat is slipping to the side or if the back of the coat is blowing around in strong winds. Other than this we say not to use them as many dogs find them uncomfortable. But, a coat having leg straps should not be a reason not to choose that design, you just don’t use them.

Overall, the answer to the question of whether or not a dog should wear a waterproof coat is generally yes. A waterproof dog coat can help keep your dog warm and dry, and can even help protect them from dirt and mud. When shopping for a waterproof coat, make sure to consider the fit, material, and ease of cleaning. With the right coat, your pup will be ready to take on any weather and make your job easier when you get home.