Do dogs need a raincoat? Most dogs with a thick, water-resistant coat do not. Small dogs, short-haired dogs and dogs that get cold easily may be happier in one, and a coat can keep your living room cleaner after a wet walk. This guide helps you decide whether your dog needs a raincoat or boots, and how to choose a fit that works.
When a raincoat can help
- Small dogs. A small body loses warmth quickly and sits close to wet ground.
- Short or thin coats. There is less fur to keep the rain off the skin.
- Dogs that hate being wet. Some dogs will refuse to go out in the rain, and a coat can help.
- Cleaner homes. A coat keeps most of the mud and water on the outside.
If you are not sure whether your dog needs one, ask your vet. Watch your dog on the walk: if it shivers, hunches or wants to turn around, it is telling you something.
What to look for in a dog raincoat
- Fit. It should cover the back and chest without rubbing under the legs.
- Coverage. A hood or full-body cut keeps more of your dog dry.
- Visibility. A reflective strip helps on dark, wet days.
- Easy on and off. A coat that is hard to put on is a coat that stays in the cupboard.
A reflective, hooded coat
The Reflective Dog Raincoat with Hood is a hooded, full-body raincoat for small dogs. It covers the body and legs and has a reflective strip. It comes in orange, black, red or blue. The listing has a size guide:
| Size | Back (cm) | Chest (cm) | Dog weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 20 | 32 | 1 to 2 |
| M | 25 | 37 | 1.5 to 3 |
| L | 30 | 42 | 3.5 to 4.5 |
| XL | 35 | 47 | 4.5 to 6 |
| 2XL | 40 | 52 | 6 to 7.5 |
The listing says to allow 2 to 3 cm of difference, and to choose the larger size if your dog is between sizes. The strip adds visibility, but it does not replace watching for traffic.
A raincoat with a visor
For larger dogs, the Dinosaur Dog Raincoat with Clear Visor comes in sizes L to 3XL. It is bright yellow with green spikes and a clear visor over the face. It has waterproof raincoat fabric with a breathable mesh lining. The listing says it suits breeds such as the Pug, Corgi, Schnauzer, Shiba Inu and West Highland. Measure your dog first, using the neck, chest and back length in the size guide. Always supervise your dog while it wears the visor, and take it off if your dog seems unsure.
Boots for wet paws
Muddy paws are the other half of the problem. The Dog Rain Boots come as a set of four, with non-slip, wear-resistant soles and a drawstring at the top. They come in black, blue, orange, red, rose red or yellow. Measure your dog's paw standing on paper, then compare it with the size guide in the listing, from size 1 to size 7. Let your dog get used to the boots indoors first, and take them off after each walk.
Getting your dog used to a coat
- Let your dog sniff the coat first.
- Put it on for a minute indoors, with a treat, then take it off.
- Build up the time over a few days before the first rainy walk.
- Stop if your dog seems upset.
Frequently asked questions
Can my dog wear a coat all day?
No. Take it off when you are home, so your dog can dry and the fabric does not rub.
How do I measure my dog?
Use a soft tape measure around the neck, around the widest part of the chest, and along the back from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. If your dog is between sizes, choose the larger one. Our FAQ has the full steps.
What if it does not fit?
See the returns section of our FAQ for what to do.
More to explore
Browse the Walk & Explore collection for coats, boots and walking gear. Delivery times depend on where you live, so check the delivery questions on our FAQ. Use code LAUNCH15 for 15% off at checkout.
Related guide: How to walk a dog at night safely.