Does my dog need a jacket!
Laura Meudell
Dog jackets are always a controversial subject and there are two polar opposite opinions - "Fido already has a coat why would he need another" and then "fluffy he gets so chilly in the cold weather!"
Well there is no right or wrong answer to the question does my dog need a jacket it is on a case by case basis. Some things to consider when deciding on if or what jacket to buy are listed below.
Natural Coat Type - Some dogs are made to live in a chilly climates, such as Huskies and Newfoundlands and these Long-haired dogs already have a double-coat, adding another layer could make them overheated. Other dogs however are not so lucky, short-haired dogs like Chihuahuas and Greyhounds are more likely to need help staying warm.
Dogs Weight - Thin dogs don’t have as much fat to insulate them from the cold, so the extra layer provided by a winter jacket can be hugely beneficial.
Health - If your dog is sick or recovering from being sick, you’ll want to keep him extra warm so he gets better quickly!
Age - Senior dogs are more susceptible to illness, so it’s important to keep them warm and healthy.
Other reasons for dog jackets are for owners own ease. Soggy dogs smell and make a mess when you get home, fact! Most of our dogs cohabit with us in our homes and therefore practicalities have to be taken into consideration unless you are lucky enough to have a dog room.
Picking The Right Jacket For Your Dog
British weather can not be relied on from one day to the next. Monday- snow, Tuesday - sunny, Wednesday- gale force winds, the only thing we can be sure of its you are guaranteed to get wet at some point!
I try and test all the products I sell on my willing volunteers. This year is slightly different than the past as I lost my Doberman Waffle last year. She was the best tester of jackets as elderly and felt the cold but still very active. Some of her favourites are still on the below list (although new colours now available) and the Ruffwear K-9 Overcoat is still one of the best jackets available for functionality, durability and fit in my opinion.
Tried and tested
Waffle in her Ruffwear K-9 Overcoat.
Waffle was 11 when she passed and always felt the cold and hated getting wet, this jacket was ideal to keep her warm and dry
- Relaxed Fit with vest coverage and side-release buckles for easy on/off
- Burly weather- and abrasion-resistant shell fabric
- Warm, comfortable fleece lining
- Leash portal on back is compatible with most harnesses
Please note this colour no longer available
Bryher in his Ruffwear Lumenglow.
Bryher has just turned 1 and is a wirehaired x shorthaired German pointer. He is a hot dog and this is ideal for keeping him dry but not getting too warm
- High-vis, high-contrast colors for visibility
- Weather- and abrasion-resistant shell fabric sheds light moisture
- Reflective side panels for visibility in low light conditions
- Leash portal on back is compatible with most harnesses
Today we tried out the new updated Ruffweat Vert
Lupo is an 8 year old German shorthaired Pointer. These frosty mornings he is starting to feel the cold so felt a little extra would be good for him. He is very active but does get chilly!
- Shell fabric is windproof, waterproof, and breathable
- High-loft recycled polyester insulation provides warmth
- Oversized storm collar folds up for additional weather protection
- Leg loops provide secure fit option in windy conditions
- Leash portal on back is compatible with most harnesses
Quinzee Insulated Dog Jacket - Lupo in the Snow
Weather-resistant,75D polyester shell fabric and recycled 250g high loft polyester insulation provides warmth - Buy Now
Ruffwear Climate Changer Jacket is a fleece dog jacket is a quick-drying coat that provides coverage and warmth for dogs on morning missions and everyday pursuits in cold, clear conditions. - Buy Now
Ruff and Tumble Dog Drying Coat
Extra10% off current RRP or sales price with RAIN10 in checkout
valid until 30th November 2021
