Deciding whether or not your pup needs a waterproof dog coat may seem like a difficult decision at first, but the reality is that most dogs don't love wet weather - which is why a comfy waterproof can make all the difference.
As well as preventing your dog's fur from getting completely drenched, these coats can help to keep excess water to a minimum, providing pups with an extra layer of protection from the rain.
When shopping for a waterproof dog coat, one of the most important considerations is choosing the correct size and style. You should also think about the coat features and quality of material used.
To help you find the best waterproof dog coats in the UK, we’ve created a guide that includes everything you need to know:
- Are waterproof coats good for dogs?
- 6 types of dog coats:
- The best waterproof dog coats (UK)
- The benefits of using a waterproof dog coat
- How to measure a dog for a coat
Photo: Meekonose wears Barc London's Coral Wind & Waterproof Puffer Jacket
Are waterproof coats good for dogs?
Wearing a waterproof dog coat can help to prevent a dog's fur from becoming completely soaked, reducing the likelihood of them feeling chilly.
The extra layer of protection a waterproof dog coat can provide works to keep dogs dry and warm, increasing their overall enjoyment during walks.
6 Different Types of Dog Coats:
Find out more about the different types of waterproof dog coats available, and the benefits each coat offers:
1. Dog Raincoats with Hoods
Waterproof coats that come complete with hoods help to keep water out of dogs eyes during rainy walkies.
A dog raincoat with hood can be used by all dogs, but is most useful for long-haired pups and breeds with long facial hair and fringes.
Photo: Millie Moo wears Barc London's Pink Waterproof Coat
2. Waterproof Dog Coats with Harness Hole
If you regularly walk your dog with a harness, then the waterproof coat you choose should feature a harness hole.
Without this addition, you won't be able to attach the lead to your dog's harness while they wear the coat.
3. Puppy Coats
Because puppies haven't yet developed their full coats of fur, they can be more vulnerable to cold and wet weather.
Waterproof puppy coats for small dogs are designed to keep younger pups sheltered from cold.
They're an important addition to your puppy's essential accessories.
4. Waterproof Dog Coats with Underbelly Protection
This type of rainproof jacket is particularly useful for smaller breeds and shorter dogs that are closer to the ground.
As well as keeping pups warm, a waterproof dog raincoat with underbelly cover helps them stay clean and covered from muddy splashes!
Photo: Pepe wears Barc London's Blue Dog Raincoat with Underbelly and Legs
5. Dog Raincoats with Legs
While most waterproof dog coats get fitted around a pup's forelegs, these dog coats provide coverage for their hind legs too.
They provide the most protection from rain, however it’s important to choose a dog coat with legs that is breathable, as they can be more restrictive than other types of coats.
6. Water & Windproof Dog Coats
These coats are ideal for keeping dogs warm and dry in cold weather.
Primarily designed for autumn and winter, windproof dog coats usually feature padding that is thick enough to provide a shield, but light enough to prevent dogs from overheating during wet walks.
Photo: Bonnie wears Barc London's Windproof Cream Puffer Jacket
The benefits of using a waterproof dog coats:
While a waterproof dog coat might not be the right solution for all dogs, rainwear is becoming extremely popular in the dog community, with more and more people recognising the benefits this apparel can bring.
There are lots of benefits to opting for a waterproof dog jacket, including:
1. Keeps dogs healthy:
When dogs get cold or run down, they are more susceptible to sickness. A coat can help your dog stay warm and protected from illness.
2. Increases motivation:
While some dogs love snow, others are less excited to step outside during winter. For dogs that feel the cold, a dog coat can help to provide an added layer of warmth and comfort.
3. Protect older dogs and puppies:
Just like us humans, puppies and older dogs are more vulnerable to colder temperatures. A waterproof coat can help these dogs adapt to wet, winter weather.
4. Reduces shake and splash when home:
After getting very wet, dogs tend to shake themselves to get rid of the excess water. A dog coat can help to reduce the amount of splash post-dog walk, keeping your home clean and dry.
5. Helps dogs stay visible in the dark:
During winter, the evenings tend to get dark early, which means that many people end up walking their dogs in reduced visibility.
Colourful waterproof coats help dogs stay safe and visible, and some even come with reflective patches to help drivers spot you in the dark.
The best waterproof dog coats (UK):
The best waterproof dog coat for your pup will depend on its breed, size, age and individual needs. Some factors to consider when choosing the best waterproof dog coat in the UK are:
Material: Is the coat made from a lightweight, breathable material? It shouldn’t be heavy or uncomfortable for your dog to move around in.
Size: Have you chosen the correct size fit for your pup? Not all coats are right for all dogs, so it’s important to find the right type of waterproof with the desired fit. As an example, dog coats for small dogs should accommodate their shorter legs and bellies closer to the ground!
Quality: A good raincoat is an investment for your dog’s winter walkies. Choosing a coat that has been made to a high quality will ensure durability and longevity.
Features: What specific features are important to you? If you usually walk your dog with a harness, it’s important to find a waterproof dog coat with harness hole.
Time Of Year: Some coats are better suited to certain times of the year - waterproof jackets tend to suit the autumn months and April showers. Whereas in winter when the temperatures drop and the UK experiences light snowfall, your dog may need a coat that offers more insulation.
How to measure a dog for a coat
Discover how to measure your dog for their new waterproof coat in four simple steps:
To take your dog's measurements, you're going to use a soft measuring tape. If you don't have one to hand, you can use a piece of string or ribbon instead, but please note that this may result in less accurate measurements.
Step 1: Measure the Chest
The first measurement you'll need for your dog's coat is chest size.
Wrap the soft measuring tape around the widest part of your dog's torso, which is usually just behind their front legs.
Step 2: Measure the Back
Once you've measured your dog's chest, you can align the tape to measure your dog's topline.Start at the lower neck, and run the measuring tape to the base of the tail.
Step 3: Measure the Forelegs
If measuring a dog for a raincoat, then a couple of extra measurements should be taken to ensure the coat legs are the correct length and cuff size.
Wrap the tape around the foreleg (above the elbow). Then, run the tape from the base of their chest down the inner leg to the elbow.
Step 4: Compare your Dog's Measurements
Once you have followed the three steps above and noted down all of your dog's measurements, you can compare them to the size charts below to find the correct fit.
💡 Top Tip: At Barc we offer small waterproof dog coats and coats for larger breeds. If your dog's measurements fall between sizes, we suggest going up a size.
| Water / Wind Resistant Dog Puffer Jackets |
| Jacket Size | Chest | Back |
| XS | 47cm | 32.5cm |
| S | 61.5cm | 43cm |
| M | 77.5cm | 54cm |
| L | 93.5cm | 63.5cm |
| XL | 104cm | 69cm |
| Raincoats |
| Coat | Chest | Back | Arm (len/cuff) |
| XS | 38cm | 25cm | 10.5/8cm |
| S | 52.5cm | 25cm | 11.5/9.5cm |
| M | 70cm | 44cm | 15.5/10cm |
| L | 86.5cm | 55cm | 17.5/12cm |
| XL | 97cm | 59cm | 19/12.5cm |
