As the landscape is starting to transform into a winter wonderland, it’s time for us, paw parents, to make sure our dogs are properly dressed. Traveling with my dog in winter is a joy, but I always remind myself that keeping him warm and cozy is paramount. Whether I plan to go on a snowy mountain retreat or just have a chilly city stroll, I always equip my dog with warm gear. That’s why I’m always on the lookout for the best winter coats for dogs. Below are some of my favorites, and my dog has worn all of them. When wearing them, he never shivered, trembled, or cuddled in warm spaces. These coats allowed my dog to be his mischievous self even when the weather was unforgiving. So, leash up and get ready to take a look at some of the best options on the market!
Table of contents
- Kurgo Loft Dog Jacket
- Ruffwear Stumptown Dog Jacket
- Fitwarm Ruffle Quilted Dog Coat
- Canada Pooch Dog Snowsuit
- Vecomfy Winter Dog Hoodie
- Ruffwear Furness Dog Jacket
- Canada Pooch Everest Explorer Dog Jacket
- Carhartt Firm Duck Insulated Dog Chore Coat
- Pendleton Badlands National Park Dog Coat
- Lelepet Warm Dog Winter Coat
- Hurtta Expedition Parka
- Ruffwear Vert Dog Winter Jacket
- Kuoser Dog Winter Coat
- Our Verdict!
- How To Choose The Best Travel Winter Coats for Dogs
- Do dogs need a winter coat?
- Do dogs’ fur keep them warm in the cold?
- How do I know if my dog is cold?
Kurgo Loft Dog Jacket
13
Kicking off this list is the Kurgo Loft Dog Jacket, one of the most versatile and comfiest winter jackets for dogs of all sizes. I got the XS small variant for my tiny Chihuahua, but it’s also available in other sizes up to XL. Based on my test, it fitted my little friend perfectly. Even better, it has a reversible design, offering two color options in one. This allowed me to switch up my dog’s look and keep things fresh.
Though not fully waterproof, this jacket is still water-resistant. During testing, it was snowing, and this jacket performed well. It provided my dog with a sufficient amount of warmth. Another thing that you’ll probably love is its ripstop nylon fabric, which is known for its durability and tear resistance. Lastly, thanks to the fabric, it’s machine washable.
Pros
- There are so many colors to choose from.
- The leash access on the back allows you to attach your harness easily.
- It provides adequate warmth without the extra weight.
Cons
- May not be a good option for extremely cold weather.
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Ruffwear Stumptown Dog Jacket
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Ruffwear is a reliable dog apparel brand, and the Stumptown Dog Jacket has to be one of its best products. I think it boasts several features that make it a standout option. For one, it features a durable ripstop shell fabric that can easily last many winters. Plus, the DWR finish kept my dog dry even when it was snowing.
Moreover, the synthetic insulation kept my dog warm and cozy. Many pet owners also praise the vest-style coverage. It provides core warmth without restricting movement. Another thing that I want to point out is the soft lining. It was so soft and comfortable against my dog’s fur and he wasn’t bothered by the jacket at all.
Pros
- There are multiple sizes and colors to choose from.
- The leash portal is compatible with most harnesses out there.
- It’s warm enough to withstand the cold winter.
Cons
- On the pricier side.
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Fitwarm Ruffle Quilted Dog Coat
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I’ve seen so many different dog coats before, but the Fitwarm Ruffle Quilted Dog Coat has to be one of the prettiest. Available in pink, this is arguably the most adorable coat for small dogs. My Chihuahua looked so good wearing it. The jacket made him look a hundred times cuter. Plus, the ruffle details make this coat look more charming and unique compared to others.
When I first received this coat, its material reminded me of my own windbreaker. The polyester material blocks wind effectively, and the velvet lining provides adequate warmth. Despite its premium fabric and quality, this coat is relatively affordable. And aside from dogs, cat owners can also get this coat for their feline!
Pros
- This is one of the most adorable dog coats on the market.
- A versatile choice that can be worn for many occasions.
- It’s true to size.
Cons
- It’s only available in pink.
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Canada Pooch Dog Snowsuit
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I really think the Canada Pooch Dog Snowsuit is criminally underrated. This jacket checks all the right boxes, especially for dog breeds that need full-coverage coats. Thanks to the thermal lining and faux-fur filling, my dog was able to embrace the cold winter weather without freezing. As a pet owner, I was excited to see him play comfortably in the snow for long periods of time without getting the cold.
Though I only tested this snowsuit once, I could tell that it’s highly durable. It’s the kind of winter coat that won’t show any signs of wear and tear even after many uses. My dog loves to destroy its bite pillows, and I was amazed that this snowsuit could survive him. Since this is a Canada Pooch product, you shouldn’t expect it to be cheap. However, considering the amazing features it offers, I don’t think it’s expensive either.
Pros
- Easy to put on and take off.
- This snowsuit offers great coverage.
- It’s available in a variety of sizes.
Cons
- Some dogs may need some time to get used to the suit.
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Vecomfy Winter Dog Hoodie
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Best Hooded. The Vecomfy Winter Dog Hoodie is a must-have for pet owners who want to prioritize head protection. That’s because unlike many other choices out there, this one comes with a hood. My dog has worn this hoodie before and I could tell he loved it. The hood protected his ears and head properly, preventing him from feeling the cold when he was outdoors.
To keep dogs warm, this hoodie features a soft fleece lining and polyester filler. The fleece trapped heat effectively and my dog never shivered when wearing the jacket. Combined with the polyester filler, this jacket is warm, lightweight, and easy to care for. Overall, I highly recommend this great little coat that’s capable of doing big things.
Pros
- There are six different designs to choose from.
- It’s available in various sizes for all types of dogs.
- A nice choice to protect the head from the cold weather.
Cons
- Choosing the right size can be tricky.
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Ruffwear Furness Dog Jacket
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When talking about the best winter jackets for dogs, the Ruffwear Furness Dog Jacket has to be included in the conversation. With this awesome jacket, your furry companion can now explore the great outdoors deeper and longer with you. I’ve tested so many winter jackets before, and this one has to be one of the warmest ones. Its high-loft synthetic insulation provided my dog with exceptional warmth without being bulky.
Like many other high-quality models, this jacket also comes with a water-repellent shell that protects dogs against snow and light rain. What’s more amazing, however, is the StormSleeves technology. These sleeves provided my dog extra protection from the weather without restricting his movement. This feature truly sets it apart from its competitors. Need another review? Check out this Pawsitively Intrepid review video!
Pros
- There’s a reflective trim for increased visibility at night.
- It boasts a 3/4-length weather-guarded zipper for easy on and off.
- This jacket offers full coverage around the neck, back, belly, hips, and thighs.
Cons
- It costs more than many other jackets.
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Canada Pooch Everest Explorer Dog Jacket
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Most Stylish. If your dog loves to pose and has their own aesthetically pleasing Instagram account, you may want to consider the Canada Pooch Everest Explorer Dog Jacket. With a faux-fur-lined hood and trim, this jacket made my tiny dog look even more beautiful. On top of that, the jacket has a simple and streamlined design that’s both modern and timeless.
Of course, this jacket is more than just eye candy. For one, the water-resistant shell is highly reliable. It kept my dog warm and dry during a snowy walk. Plus, the fleece lining isn’t just warm but also soft. Better yet, this jacket features reflective accents to improve visibility in low-light conditions. The red color also helped me to spot my dog more easily.
Pros
- One of the most stylish dog coats on the market.
- It’s easy to put on and take off.
- It’s available in various sizes.
Cons
- While it’s warm, it may not be enough for extremely cold climates.
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Carhartt Firm Duck Insulated Dog Chore Coat
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Carhart is a reputable winter jacket brand that has produced tons of winter gear like warm hats and winter jackets. I’m a huge fan of the brand, and I didn’t think twice when offered to test the Carhartt Firm Duck Insulated Dog Chore Coat. This is a winter essential for your four-legged friend. One of the biggest selling points is its material. Made from tough, water-repellent duck canvas, this coat kept my dog toasty without adding extra weight.
The durability of this jacket is also worth praising. My dog is always up to something crazy. After testing, the jacket didn’t show any sign of wear or tear at all. Plus, the adjustable straps ensured a comfortable fit for my dog. In addition to that, you can find this coat in multiple color options. I’m sure you and your dog will love this coat a lot.
Pros
- Adjusting the fit of the coat is easy thanks to the hook-and-loop straps.
- The quilted liner offers extra warmth.
- It has a simple but stylish design.
Cons
- It’s not machine washable.
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Pendleton Badlands National Park Dog Coat
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Most Comfortable. When it comes to comfort, the Pendleton Badlands National Park Dog Coat takes the cake. I’m very happy that I had the chance to let my Chihuahua wear this coat, as now I know what kind of coat to get him. This fleece-lined coat was able to keep my furry pal warm on a cold day. When I touched the coat, I was shocked by how soft and warm it was. No wonder my dog didn’t want to let the coat go.
“Pet owners looking for a stylish and cozy dog coat to boot should definitely check this one out. It’s really well made and does everything a proper dog coat should do.”
WOW Travel
This vintage and stylish coat is available in six different sizes and 10 beautiful color combinations. No matter how many times you wash it, it won’t pill. And speaking of which, it’s machine washable! Another thing that surprised me was the fact that this coat is reversible. Paying one for two different looks does sound like a good deal, right? By the way, did you know that Pendleton also makes some of the best dog sweaters?
Pros
- The hook-and-loop belt offers easy and off.
- This coat is both machine washable and dryable.
- It comes with a cut-out to hook your leash to your dog’s collar.
Cons
- Unfortunately, it’s not waterproof.
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Lelepet Warm Dog Winter Coat
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With winter just around the corner, it’s time to prepare your dog for the potentially cruel weather. While there are so many winter coats for dogs on the market, the Lelepet Warm Dog Winter Coat remains a standout. My dog has worn this coat before, and he didn’t show any signs of discomfort. One of the features that I like the most is its water and wind-resistant fabric, keeping rain and snow out.
This is a small detail, but I was so excited when I found a reflective strip on the neckline. I let my dog wear it at night and the reflective strip was bright enough to let me spot my dog easily. And while it’s available in many shades, you’ll want to check out the orange variant if you want the best visibility. On top of that, the coat comes in a variety of sizes to fit dogs of all breeds.
Pros
- Though affordable, it doesn’t skimp on features.
- Adjustable closures for a secure, comfy fit.
- It’s both warm and comfortable.
Cons
- It’s a bit too small for some dogs.
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Hurtta Expedition Parka
3
Best Insulation. Though my Chihuahua is small, it’s a fearless one and big on adventures. And when he met the Hurtta Expedition Parka, I could see he was more than excited. This winter coat is specifically designed for short-haired dogs and those without undercoats. Despite that, based on the official website, many people have claimed that it’s also a good option for other types of dogs that need insulation in extremely cold conditions. Talk about versatility!
The key feature of this parka is none other than its 300D shell fabric. It’s highly durable and water-resistant. My dog was able to have fun outside even when it was slightly raining and pretty windy. Plus, the warm, insulated lining can keep your four-legged family member warm in temperatures as low as -15 ºF.
Pros
- With a zip closure, it’s easy to put on the parka and take it off.
- The adjustable straps offer a custom fit.
- There’s a reflective trim for added visibility.
Cons
- It runs a bit big.
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Ruffwear Vert Dog Winter Jacket
2
Best Quality. My dog and I were recently lucky enough to test the Ruffwear Vert Dog Winter Jacket, and I must say, this product is a game-changer. The waterproof and windproof shell kept my dog dry and cozy even though the weather then was pretty cold and windy. On top of that, the recycled materials provided my little friend with reliable insulation that won’t damage the environment.
Based on my experience, the fit of this jacket is spot on. I tested the XS variant on my dog and he was able to move freely. I also noticed that it has extended coverage, which is perfect for keeping dogs warm in winter. Putting the jacket on and taking it off was also easy as all I had to do was press the side-release buckles. A+ for everything! Check out Muslibordercollie’s review for more information!
Pros
- The oversized storm collar offers extra protection from the weather.
- Though warm, it’s still highly breathable.
- It’s built to last a long time.
Cons
- It’s a bit more expensive compared to other models.
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Kuoser Dog Winter Coat
1
Best Overall. With over 52,000 glowing reviews on Amazon, the Kuoser Dog Winter Coat truly deserves the number one spot on this list. This coat is specifically made to cater to the comfort and warmth needs of our furry friends while providing a fashionable look that we appreciate. One of the things that I love the most about this coat is its material. The combination of polyester and cotton offered my dog a good balance of warmth and durability. Not to mention, the outer layer is waterproof. I’ve tried pouring a small amount of water onto the coat and it didn’t absorb the water at all.
When it comes to fitting, this coat is available in a wide range of sizes, from XS all the way to 3XL. The one that I tested was XS, and it fitted my little Chihuahua well. Not to mention, the adjustable Velcro straps made it easy to put on and take off. Best of all, this relatively affordable coat has a reversible design.
Pros
- Aside from being waterproof, it’s also windproof.
- The inside of the coat is lined with fleece, keeping dogs warm and cozy.
- There are so many different designs to choose from.
Cons
- It may not cover the entire length of dogs with longer bodies.
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Our Verdict!
After considering the price, warmth, comfort, and style, I think the Kuoser Dog Winter Coat is the best overall choice. After all, there’s a reason why it has the most positive reviews on Amazon. That said, everything is subjective, and I understand that it may not be the best option for you. Thus, to make things easier, I’ve categorized some of my picks based on the following criteria, so take a look!
- Best Quality: Ruffwear Vert Dog Winter Jacket
- Best Insulation: Hurtta Expedition Parka
- Most Comfortable: Pendleton Badlands National Park Dog Coat
- Most Stylish: Canada Pooch Everest Explorer Dog Jacket
- Best Hooded: Vecomfy Winter Dog Hoodie
How To Choose The Best Travel Winter Coats for Dogs
When choosing a winter coat for your four-legged friend, there are several important things to consider to make sure they’re comfy even during the colder months. Here are the factors to keep in mind:
Size and fit
Ensuring a good fit is always essential. Your dog coat should be comfortably snug, keeping your dog warm without being too tight or restricting their movement. So, you’ll want to measure your dog’s length, neck, and chest circumference, and compare the measurements to the manufacturer’s size chart for a perfect fit.
Material
When choosing a coat for your dog, you should prioritize high-quality materials that offer both insulation and waterproofing or water resistance. I recommend choosing a coat with a windproof and waterproof shell that comes with a soft, warm lining made of fleece.
Coverage
Finally, you should also think about how extensive your dog’s coat is. Some coats can cover your dog’s whole body, while others only focus on their core. The more coverage a coat provides, the better it protects against harsh weather, particularly for short-haired breeds or those lacking an undercoat.
Also, if your dog is an avid adventurer like you, you should check out our specially curated lists of the best dog supplies for camping and the best paddleboards for dogs.
Do dogs need a winter coat?
It depends. If your place often has snow and ice along with chilly winds during winter, chances are your dog will need a proper winter coat.
Do dogs’ fur keep them warm in the cold?
A dog’s fur can keep them warm in the cold, but its effectiveness depends on the coat type. Dogs with a double coat can stay warm better thanks to the better insulation, but dogs with a single coat will be more susceptible to cold temperatures.
How do I know if my dog is cold?
Usually, when a dog is cold, they will start to shiver or tremble. Other signs include a hunched posture, slow movements, walking with their tail tucked, and pale gums.