The Very Best Dog Coats
Including waterproof insulated parkas, stylish raincoats, and fleece that even fussy pups will tolerate.
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You may not think your dog needs a jacket — but even for pups that love running around in the snow (like my 47-pound basset hound, Ringo), the rightcoatwill go far in allowing them to walk, play, and explore outside for longer periods of time. It will ensure your furry friend stays comfortable outside while keeping their fur dry and clean, and that means there’s less of a chance that they’ll need a bath after slushy or muddy walks. Plus, certain breeds (like short-haired French bulldogs or lean-bodied Greyhounds) need an additional layer of warmth because they aren’t able to retain enough of their own body heat. Other breeds, including dachshunds, corgis, or basset hounds, are low to the ground, meaning their undersides skim puddles or icy patches easily and need some extra protection. (I mean, can you imagine hitting your own belly on a snowbank?)
Luckily, there is no shortage of practical (and nice-looking) dog coats and jackets, with options available for every type of dog and dog owner. There are reversible down vests in bold colors, durable canvas work jackets in muted tones, miniature parkas complete withfaux-fur hoods, and even full-body snowsuits for dogs who start to shiver anytime the temperature drops below 50 degrees.
Along with finding the right level of warmth, you’ll need to consider the fit since comfort will likely determine how willingly your dog wears their clothing, and body proportions vary wildly from dog to dog. “It’s important that any coat fits well to allow for natural movement and to prevent any chafing or rubbing,” says Tory Waxman, a veterinarian and co-founder ofSundays, an all-natural dog-food brand. (She suggests bringing your dog to a store to try on different brands, as coat sizing can vary greatly.) Finally, it’s helpful to take your dog’s activity level into account; for example, does your pet hate getting their paws wet, or do the two of you spend hours outdoors? I tried to find dog coats for all kinds of scenarios, whether your pup only ventures out in a stroller or never skips an opportunity to explore the park.
To help you find the best outerwear foryourdog, we asked Waxman and more than a dozen other coolpet parents, dog walkers, and a New York City dog photographer about the dog coats and jackets they like most.
Updated on August 25, 2026
We’ve updated our favorite dog coats with the latest pricing and availability. I’ve also added a new dog coat for windy climates.
Our top picks
Whatwe’relookingfor
Size
Imagine the difference in body shape between a Chihuahua and a pug. While they might both be considered small dogs and might even wear the same-size coat, they have totally different neck widths, and the proportions of their chest and shoulders are very different. The more adjustable a coat is, the better it will fit a bunch of different kinds of dogs — and the more likely it is to fit your dog if you can’t try it on them before you buy. The best dog coats are designed with this in mind and are made of stretchy fabric with adjustable straps at the chest and neck to create a snug but comfortable fit. Ideally, the brand you’re considering will provide detailed size charts and offer a wide size range. Otherwise, you’ll have to rely on the recommendations of dog owners with the same breed as your pup and a bit of luck to find a coat online that will fit comfortably. But even if you’re buying a coat with adjustable straps, asoft tape measureis an essential tool to help you figure out the exact distance from your dog’s neck to tail — the most common measurement for coats.
Insulation
While a brawny Labrador retriever may need only a lightly lined shell in the winter, toy and miniature breeds will be much cozier on long walks in puffer-style coats (and, in some cases, snowsuit styles that offer full-body insulation). But no dog will be happy in a coat that weighs them down or restricts their movements, no matter how warm it is. We sought out lightweight coats that do a great job of keeping your pup’s temperature stable with extra points for those that protect their most sensitive areas: the neck, chest, and abdomen.
Durability
Not every dog will treat their new jacket like a chew toy, but you should still prioritize durability when deciding what coat to buy. Look for sturdy materials that also repel water or melting snow, like nylon or waxed cotton — this will help ensure your dog’s outerwear keeps them warm, whether they naturally have a dense coat or not. That’s why many dog owners dress their pups in a cozy sweater paired with a rain shell on cold, wet days. But in any season, a waterproof coat is an excellent way to cut back on grooming after taking your dog for a run in the park. Though better-quality coats tend to cost more, you can find some affordable options built to last. A great way of vetting a dog coat for durability is by talking to other dog parents and reading online reviews. All the coats on this list meet our standards for durability.
Washability
Your dog will probably have a favorite coat, which means it will get dirty faster than if they changed their wardrobe on a daily basis. For that reason, and because it will save you time and money, Waxman recommends looking for a coat or jacket that’s machine washable.
Best dog coat overall
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Size:16 sizes with adjustable back, neck, and chest |Insulation:Fleece lining that covers neck, chest, and belly |Durability:Water-resistant |Washability:Machine washable
This parka from Hurtta, which is originally a Finnish brand, is the best dog coat because of its completely customized fit. It’s adjustable at three points — the back length, waist, and neckline — and it’s made of rugged material, which works for all kinds of conditions and seasons. It’s also the most-recommended one by our experts, who suggest it for severely cold weather and for anyone having difficulty finding a coat that fits their dog’s body type.
When I tested the Expedition parka on Shea, my family’s Australian shepherd rescue, I noticed that she shivered less and couldhikefor longer in frigid weather thanks to the water-repellent exterior, which keeps her core dry (and prevents wet-dog smell). The adjustability also means the coat is easy to put on and take off, even when my active pup is wet or muddy. That’s also why Ally Steeves — who’s the owner of a Boston terrier namedChevy, a beagle mix named Pigpen, and a Jack Russell–Chihuahua mix named Harley — likes the Expedition. It “has a quick release around the body of the dog and then you can easily slide it over their head,” she says. Steeves also says that because this coat doesn’t have sleeves, it’s not restricting when her dogs are running down trails.
Beyond providing my dog with maximum mobility, I was impressed by other features like the stretchy hind-leg straps that keep the backside of the parka in place, even when Shea decides to roll around in some grass. I also appreciate the hidden attachment hole for quickleash hookups(or switching between a harness and collar), and reflective piping that offers visibility on nighttime walks. And although my pup hasmedium-length hairand is prone toexcessive shedding, the coat’s interior doesn’t hold onto much fur compared to the knitted dog sweater I’ve owned for years. The Expedition comes in 16 different sizes and is machine washable.
Best (less expensive) dog coat
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Size:Seven sizes, not adjustable |Insulation:Fleece lining that covers chest and belly |Durability:Not waterproof, but wind-resistant |Washability:Machine washable
If $80 is more than you want to spend on a dog coat, this $20 one from Amazon is another option that will fit a variety of pets, regardless of breed. Although it’s not adjustable like the Hurtta above, this fleece-lined coat is available in seven different sizes and has soft elastic piping that helps create a snug fit without discomfort. One Christmas, senior writer Liza Corsillo says her sister-in-law gave her parents two JoyDoag coats for their two medium-size rescue dogs, Rocky and Astro. She says she was so impressed with the simple and stylish design that she demanded to know where they were from, expecting the answer to beDog & Co. orLove Thy Beastor another trendy (but not cheap) destination for dog apparel. Corsillo says the design reminds her of a classic coach’s jacket or puffer vest from the ’80s with snaps instead of Velcro, which would pull fur and wear out over time. She adds that her parents’ dogs love wearing them even when hanging around inside. While the coat isn’t waterproof, one of over 13,000 positive reviews says, “It cuts the wind on a chilly/windy day,” and a reviewer who bought two for their dogs writes, “They wouldn’t protect them from a downpour but [are] good for light to moderate rain.”
Best dog raincoat
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Size:Six sizes, not adjustable |Insulation:Not insulated |Durability:Water- and wind-resistant |Washability:Machine washable
“Ruffwear makes great, high-quality raincoats, including a non-insulated one for warmer climates,” Waxman says. She likes that it has easy-on-and-off side buckles, extended coverage to keep hips and thighs covered, and reflective trim for visibility on evening walks. Kate Anello, a dog owner and project manager for Apple, is also a fan: “Ruffwear is the best,” she says. “It is the Patagonia of the dog world.” In addition to Waxman and Anello’s recommendations, this jacket also made our list of thebest dog rain jackets and rain boots, according to dog walkers. It’s not adjustable like the Hurtta, but it does come in six different sizes, including XXS, which is rare when it comes to dog performance outerwear. For really windy, rainy days, the collar extends to cover more of your dog’s neck, and the back has leg loops to keep the body of the coat in place.
Best quilted dog coat
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Size:Six sizes, adjustable waist strap and Velcro strap at chest |Insulation:Tartan lining, quilted waxed cotton insulation |Durability:Water-resistant |Washability:Machine washable
When Katie Spies, the founder and CEO of human-grade raw dog-food brandMaev, rescued her Italian greyhound named George, she says his foster mom advised Spies to buy a few dog coats to keep his slim frame warm in colder months. Spies saysBarbour’s quilted dog coat, which she’s owned for over three years (though it’s an older version that haspaw-shaped quilting), is the favorite because of its more relaxed fit compared to other outerwear with tight armholes or turtlenecks. Like the Carhartt coat below, the sturdy-looking style — which Spies says “elevates George’s less-than-rugged bod” — is sleeveless and fastens with Velcro at the chest. It’s also made with durable materials, like waxed cotton and has Tartan lining. Other features Spies likes:an opening for the leash that allows for easy attachment to a collar, and an adjustable waist strap that sits between the front and hind legs to keep the coat in place without limiting mobility.
Petalumaco-founder Caroline Buck is also a fan of Barbour’s dog coats, but she owns the (slightly more affordable)diamond quilt design. She says it’s sturdy enough to withstand the daily wear and tear caused by her twooutdoorsypets, who “get so excited when I bring out these out and happily get dressed.” Buck says she also appreciates that the companyprioritizessocial and environmental responsibility.
Best dog coat for layering
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Size:Nine sizes, adjustable back bungee |Insulation:Sherpa lining |Durability:Water-resistant |Washability:Machine washable
“My dog’s almost always wearing a sweater in the colder months, so I’m naturally drawn to outer layers that fit well over them,” says Tennille Teague, founder ofJust Fred. That’s why this puffer coat is her favorite for her rescue pup, Rizzo: “It has a lot of stretch through the belly and chest, which makes layering easy.” The fleece lining is what originally caught Teague’s eye, and she says it’s incredibly soft and has held up beautifully over the years. “There’s also a functional little drawstring at the back near his tail that keeps the coat from riding up or flapping around,” she says, adding that it’s “a small thing, but surprisingly helpful.” Another thing to note: This coat doesn’t have leg holes which makes putting it on and taking it off much easier and less constrictive.
Best dog coat for windy climates
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Shedrow K9 Vail Dog Coat
Size:Nine sizes, adjustable chest and belly strap |Insulation:Fleece lining |Durability:Water- and wind-resistant |Washability:Machine washable
I bought this dog coat from a local pet store called Hounds of York in Toronto for my basset hound, Ringo. It was exactly what he needed for the windy and often wet weather that whips off Lake Ontario and up into the city streets. The rugged 420-denier outer polyestershell and fleece lining kept Ringo warm and shielded his body from freezing temperatures. I also appreciated that the coat has an adjustable chest and belly strap; it not only makes the fit customizable, but keeps keep the coat securely fastened around his frame. It also has reflective detailing for visibility at night plus a harness hookup located along the back.
Best full-body snowsuit
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Size:Eight sizes, not adjustable |Insulation:Poly-fill insulation that covers the chest and legs |Durability:Water-resistant |Washability:Machine washable
Because small dogs are more vulnerable to the cold, Waxman recommends this neon-yellow snowsuit from New York–based brand Love Thy Beastfor petite pups who are going out to play in the snow. But that doesn’t mean big dogs can’t benefit from a snowsuit as well. In addition to the added insulation, the extra coverage helps reduce the need for grooming (and thawing) when they come back inside. And this suit comes in sizes up XXXL. The quilted nylon coat is water-resistant and insulated with a lightweight poly-fill. Plus, it features both a hole for harness hookup and a D-ring at the neck for use without a collar or leash.
Best puffer vest for small and medium dogs
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Size:Six sizes, adjustable back bungee |Insulation:Poly-fill insulation |Durability:Water-resistant |Washability:Machine washable
If your dog refuses to wear a coat with sleeves, you might consider a puffer vest instead that’ll keep their core warm without affecting their mobility. Three dog owners we talked to recommend this reversible one from Little Beast: Risa Miyamoto, owner of a Pomeranian namedMokutan; product-development expertLila Habermann; and Greenpoint dog momKelly Mittendorf. “Sofi lacks natural insulation, and the Little Beast puffer vest adds the perfect level of puffiness to keep her warm while still allowing her to move, jump, and play,” says Habermann, who layers it over dog sweaters when she takes her senior Chihuahua out for walks in the winter. “The first time she put it on, she was so comfy she went directly to sleep.” Mittendorf keeps her Shih Tzu Burger’s fur short to prevent matting and says this vest helps keep him warm when they go outdoor dining in Greenpoint.
Best raincoat for small dogs
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Size:Nine sizes, not adjustable |Insulation:Not insulated |Durability:Water- and wind-resistant |Washability:Machine washable
If looking good in the rain is a top priority, Wagwear’s nylon rain jacket, which is recommended by Miyamoto, is an excellent choice. It comes in nine solid colors with contrasting drawstrings and a stylish front zipper that’s easy to use and makes it look like a real human raincoat. “There’s something very embarrassing about matching with your dog but also very sweet and funny,” saysDusen Dusendesigner and dog owner Ellen Van Dusen, who makes matching dog and person sweaters and is also a fan of the Wagwear.
Best coat for big dogs
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Size:Four sizes, adjustable Velcro straps at chest and waist |Insulation:Quilted nylon insulation |Durability:Water-resistant |Washability:Machine washable
Carhartt’s classic chore coat for dogs is a top choice for several owners I interviewed.Approved by Fritzfounder Danielle Heeren loves walking her dog Fritz in this coat. “We always get so many compliments when he is wearing his work jacket,” Heeren told me. “He really looks like a cool guy from the neighborhood!” She adds that the Carhartt is a winner because it’s warm and reversible, plus it has a reasonable under $50 price tag.
It also comes recommended by Mittendorf; Yena Kim, the owner of two Shiba Inus named Bode (a.k.a.Menswear Dog) and Luke; and Will Ferman, a New York City dog photographer and dog walker. Ferman likes that it keeps midsize and large dogs warm without limiting their range of motion. Kim agrees, saying that, as well as going with everything in Bode’s closet, the sleeveless design is more comfortable for many types of dogs because it won’t rub against or snag on the fur of their armpits. Plus, it saves time by keeping dirt and mud off the back and sides of rambunctious dogs like Luke, who rolls around on the ground at the park. “When we get home, all I have to do is clean off his legs and paws, rather than give him a whole bath, which is a lot of effort,” she says. The heavy-duty duck canvas has a water-resistant coating and the quilted nylon liner adds insulation. Should you want your dog to carry their own poop bags or treats, this coat also has two large pockets on the back. And because it’s made by Carhartt, this coat has the most widespread brand appeal of all the coats we’ve written about. As evidenced by Heeren, it will probably get you the most compliments, plus it would make matching outerwear with your dog extremely easy.
Best horse-blanket dog coat
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Size:11 sizes, adjustable straps at neck and waist |Insulation:Faux-shearling lining, waxed cotton exterior|Durability:Water- and snow-resistant |Washability:Machine washable
This horse-blanket coat comes recommended by Mei-i Zien, the owner ofMaison de Pawz, who says it still receives high marks for durability and insulation after her long-haired ChihuahuaMarcelhas worn it for eight years. Zien highlights the water- and wind-resistant exterior and thefaux-shearling-lined interior, which has kept her dog warm during the biggestsnowstormsto hit New York City. It’s also easy to put on, and Zien says it’s very secure thanks to an adjustable neck opening and straps that crisscross around your pet’s body. While many coats on this list have an opening for aleash attachment, this one is equipped with a built-in D-ring, allowing it to act as a dog’s outerwear andharness. Zien prefers this all-in-one design because it prevents bulky layering underneath the coat, which can be heavy on Marcel’s smaller frame.
Best sweater dog coat
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Size:11 sizes, stretchy material |Insulation:Double fleece insulation |Durability:Not water-resistant |Washability:Machine washable
Unlike the other outerwear on this list, Gold Paw’s fleece coats are free of zippers and buttons, which makes them appear similar to pull-over sweaters. They’re also the least likely to bother a fussy dog, Waxman says,because they allow for maximum flexibility, whereas some of the bulkier coats hinder natural movement. This also makes them a good fit for many different types of dogs, as the stretchy fabric molds to the shape of your pup. With two layers of fleece that hug a dog’s body, this coat does a great job of insulating and the soft material is reversible.
Some more dog jackets we’ve written about
Our experts
• Kate Anello, dog owner and project manager for Apple
• Caroline Buck,Petalumaco-founder
• Liza Corsillo, Strategist senior writer
•Ellen Van Dusen,Dusen Dusendesigner and dog owner
•Will Ferman, a New York City dog photographer and dog walker
•Lila Habermann, product development expert and dog owner
•Danielle Heeren, founder of the dog-accessories brandApproved by Fritz
• Yena Kim, the owner of two Shiba Inus named Luke and Bode (a.k.a.Menswear Dog)
•Kelly Mittendorf, Greenpoint dog mom
• Risa Miyamoto, makeup artist and owner of a Pomeranian namedMokutan
• Nicole Sciria, owner of a rescue dog namedBenny
• Katie Spies, founder and CEO of human-grade raw dog-food brandMaev
• Ally Steeves, owner of a Boston terrier namedChevy, a Beagle mix named Pigpen, and a Jack Russell–Chihuahua mix named Harley
•Tennille Teague, founder ofJust Fred
• Tory Waxman, veterinarian and co-founder ofSundaysdog food
• Mei-i Zien, owner ofMaison de Pawz
Additional reporting byLiza Corsillo.
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