Best Cold Weather Coats and Jackets for Dogs of 2025
keep your dog warm and cozy during the winter
We found the dog jackets that will keep your furry friend toasty in freezing temps. Photo by Jae Thomas
February 18th, 2025
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Whether you’re planning winter hikes with your dog, or want to learn how to ski and snowshoe alongside your furry best friend, the best cold-weather coats and jackets for dogs will keep your pup warm during chilly outdoor adventures.
Dogs handle the cold differently depending on their age, coat thickness, and body type. Thick-coated northern breeds would probably opt to sleep outside in the snow in sub-zero temps, while breeds with very short coats may not even like going outside to potty in the cold. Choosing a winter coat for your dog will largely depend on their cold tolerance and the climate you live in.
As a dog trainer, dog sport competitor, and dog show exhibitor, I’m a bit obsessed with making sure my dogs are comfortable and able to perform in a variety of conditions, and that often includes dog coats for cold weather. Miso, my five-year-old Border Collie mix, is very cold intolerant. She has a short single coat, and basically no hair on her belly. If I walk her in the cold and we stop moving, she often shivers. She 100% needs a jacket in all temperatures under 30 degrees, or she’s visibly uncomfortable.
Dashi, my Rough Collie, is the opposite. She has a thick double coat and doesn’t often look cold. She enjoys romping in the Colorado snow, even if it’s in the negatives outside. However, she’s an agility dog, and recently had a minor soft tissue injury. When it’s very cold out, I often put a jacket on her to keep her muscles warm and reduce the risk of injury. I do have to be careful to make sure she doesn’t overheat though, since her coat offers a good amount of insulation on its own.
My two dogs and I tested 12 of the best cold-weather dog jackets and coats, and determined which ones were the warmest, which ones offered the most waterproofing, and which ones had superior fit and range of movement for the dogs. Ultimately, 11 jackets made it onto this list, and five were named winners for various categories.
My personal dogs, Miso and Dashi, were my main testers, and their friends, Mimmo, Ruby, Connor, and Gigi the Rough Collies; Mack the Australian Cattle Dog mix; and Tide the Border Collie also assisted in testing. Don’t worry, all of the tester dogs were fairly compensated with tasty treats for their hard work.
My tester dogs tried out each jacket in a variety of temperatures from negative two degrees up to 45 degrees. We also tested in snow and heavy wind. In addition to using the coats in these conditions, I also simulated some tests for more quantifiable results, including the warmth rating and the waterproofness rating. For warmth, I tested how well each jacket retained heat using a hot water bottle. To test waterproofness, I ran each jacket under the sink for one minute to see how much (if any) moisture soaked into the outer fabric.
The best winter dog jackets offered good (but not extreme) insulation, free range of movement for the dogs, proper fit, and were easy to put on and off. We also awarded jackets that offered a large range of sizes, so Miniature Pinschers, Greyhounds, and every size in between can benefit from them.
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Comparison table
| DOG JACKET | TREELINE AWARD | SHELL MATERIAL | INSULATION | AVAILABLE SIZES (BACK LENGTH) | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Non-stop Dogwear Glacier Jacket 2.0 | Best overall Read why |
Polyester; TPU membrane | 100 g PrimaLoft Black | 24-90 cm | $109-119 |
| WeatherBeeta Dog ComFiTec Premier Free Parka | Best affordable Read why |
1200D coated nylon | 220 g polyfill | 10-32 in | $70 |
| Hurtta Exterme Warmer III ECO | Best for extreme cold Read why |
Not listed; taped seams | Ball fiber | 10-26 in | $105 |
| Ruffwear Powder Hound Dog Jacket | Best for snow Read why |
75D polyester; stretch side panels | 250 g polyfill | 13-42 in | $100 |
| Non-stop Dogwear Fjord Raincoat | Best for rain Read why |
Polyester; TPU membrane; taped seams | Not insulated | 24-90 cm | $95-99 |
The winners
Best overall cold weather coat for dogs: Non-stop Dogwear Glacier Jacket 2.0
Material: Polyester; TPU membrane
Insulation: 100 g PrimaLoft Black
Warmth rating: Second-tier insulation; shed 3.4 degrees in our lab-style warmth test
Available sizes: 24-90 cm
Reflective: Reflective trim on the hips and chest, reflective logo on mid-back
Waterproof: 10,000mm water column waterproof rating; water beaded off and didn’t soak in during testing; light soaking in during longer exposure to water
Sizing: Runs true to size
What we liked: Free range of movement for the dogs, Primaloft insulation, lightweight and packable, large variety of sizing; great fit; thoughtful extra features
What we didn’t like: A bit pricey
Non-stop Dogwear is constantly impressing me. The Norwegian brand’s products are size inclusive, fit well, and constantly outperform competitors. This is all true of the Non-stop Dogwear GlacierJacket 2.0.
This jacket was easy to get on and off, since it just needs to be pulled over the dog’s head, then secured with one strap around the belly. The chest section (secured with a belly strap) offers good coverage and helps keep your dog warm, since it’s insulated.
The chest section of the Glacier 2.0 is insulated, offering extra warmth. Photo by Jae Thomas
The Glacier 2.0 comes in 14 different sizes, with back length measurements from 9.4 to 35 inches. That means toy breeds like Yorkshire Terriers and large breeds like English Mastiffs can all take advantage of this coat. The fit of this jacket was equally as impressive as the amount of sizes offered. I found it to be true to size and it offered great coverage that kept my tester dogs warm in cold weather.
Related to warmth, this jacket is filled with 100g of Primaloft insulation—a common pick for human synthetic jackets too. In terms of insulation performance, the Glacier 2.0 (along with our affordable pick, the Weatherbeeta ComFiTech Premier Free Parka Deluxe Dog Coat) had second-tier insulation. This is a rating I gave based on how many degrees were lost in the lab-style hot water bottle test. I heated water up to around dog body temperature, poured it into a Nalgene bottle, and wrapped it in each jacket. After 10 minutes, I measured the temperature of the water to see how much heat was retained.
You may be wondering why the jackets with second-tier insulation are the winners. This is because, in the vast majority of cases, the jackets with first-tier insulation will be too warm for most dogs. Exceptions exist, of course, like older dogs, dogs with very thin coats, dogs with very low body fat, and people who live in extreme cold temperatures. But for the majority of dogs who are healthy, have some coat, are active, and live in places where it’s not sub-zero constantly, a jacket with this level of insulation is ideal.
Non-stop Dogwear Glacier Jacket 2.0
The insulation is also fluffy and lightweight without being dense. This means the Glacier 2.0 is at the intersection of warmth, comfort, and packability. This jacket is incredibly light for how warm it is, and my tester dogs didn’t even seem to notice they were wearing it. It’s easy to pack down, making it a great option to throw in my hiking backpack just in case me and my dogs hit cold weather on an outdoor adventure.
The Glacier 2.0 has a nice 10,000mm water column rating, which is enough to protect from inclement weather. In our testing, water tended to bead off of the shell of this jacket instead of soaking in. While on a long walk in melting snow, a small amount of moisture soaked into the outer shell in the high-contact areas. The Non-stop Dogwear Fjord Raincoat is definitely more waterproof than the Glacier 2.0, but if you’re looking for a jacket that offers both insulation and good waterproofing, go for the Glacier 2.0.
The fit of the Glacier 2.0 jacket was perfectly true to size. Photo by Jae Thomas
Non-stop Dogwear is known for gear made for canine athletes, and is a common source for dog sport products for canicross, bikejoring, and skijoring. With that being said, the brand takes range of motion and dog safety seriously. The thoughtful design of the front of this jacket keeps your dog’s shoulders fully free to extend while running. Many other jackets have thick panels that cut directly across your dog’s shoulders and will limit their range of motion, which could cause orthopedic issues down the line.
This jacket is clearly designed with dogs in mind, not humans. I often see cute but unnecessary features on dog apparel that’s clearly marketed to get humans to buy the product, and isn’t actually functional for the dog that’s wearing it. The extras on the Non-stop Glacier 2.0 are all functional: leg loops to keep the jacket in place, reflective trim for low-light visibility, a reinforced leash hole for dogs who wear harnesses, and adjustable cinches at the neck and rear to ensure proper fit and keep water from getting into the jacket.
In terms of price, this jacket sits a bit on the higher end, running $110-$120 depending on size. I feel it’s a worthy investment given the high quality materials, proper, safe fit, and thoughtful dog-first design.
Best affordable cold weather dog coat: Weatherbeeta ComFiTech Premier Free Parka Deluxe Dog Coat
Material: 1200D coated nylon
Insulation: 220 g polyfill
Warmth rating: Second-tier insulation; shed 2.7 degrees in our lab-style warmth test
Available sizes: 10-32 in
Reflective: Reflective trim around the entire jacket; big reflective strip down the back
Waterproof: Brand says it’s waterproof, but no formal rating; water soaked in a small amount on the outer shell during testing but did not leak through
Sizing: Runs true to size, but may feel a bit bulky to dogs with a slight build
What we liked: Great price; warm insulation; tons or reflective trim; very durable; easy to put on and take off
What we didn’t like: A bit bulky; slightly impacted range of movement
The Weatherbeeta ComFiTech Premier Free Parka Deluxe Dog Coat was a front-runner for best overall dog coat, but a few small details made it better suited for best affordable dog coat. If you’re looking for a reasonably priced, warm, waterproof coat for your dog, this is it.
This coat was the easiest to get on and off of all the options in our pool. Simply pull the jacket over your dog’s head, then attach the two Velcro straps on either side. You won’t have to fiddle with buckles or closures.
Weatherbeeta ComFiTech Premier Free Parka Deluxe Dog Coat
The sizing of this coat was true-to-size in back length, and offered good coverage from the neck to the base of the tail, but the Non-stop Glacier 2.0 offered a bit more neck coverage. While this coat was mostly true to size, I found it a bit bulky for dogs with slight builds. The material of this coat is heavy duty but stiff, and the front panel of this jacket seemed to be too thick and slightly restrictive for lighter-boned dogs. The front shoulder panel cuts into a dog’s range of motion a little bit, but the two pieces of stretchy elastic at the shoulders help somewhat with mobility.
The velcro closures make the Weatherbeeta ComFiTech Premier Free Parka Deluxe Dog Coat the easiest to put on and take off. Photo by Jae Thomas
Weatherbeeta is known mainly for horse blankets, and the design of the Premier Free Parka Deluxe Dog Coat is similar. It offers good chest and belly coverage and coverage over the hips, and the outer material is exceptionally durable. Though I had some issues with loose stitching at the shoulders, the general feel of this jacket seems like it would last a long time, and can hold up to outdoor adventures of any kind. The heavyweight outer is unlikely to rip or snag. This coat also had second-tier insulation like our best overall pick, the Non-stop Dogwear Glacier 2.0, and kept dogs quite warm during testing.
While the product listing on this coat says it’s waterproof, there’s no formal water column waterproof rating. In our testing, it performed similarly to the Hurtta Extreme Warmer III Eco when exposed to water. There was some light accumulation of moisture on the outer shell of the jacket, but it did not soak into the jacket or leak through to the dog.
You’ll also score leg straps, a ton of reflective trim, and a harness leash hole with this coat, though the leash hole is a bit too small for thick nylon leashes in my opinion.
This Weatherbeeta coat is super visible, thanks to all the reflective trim. Photo by Jae Thomas
With a $65-$70 retail price and a frequent sale price of $55, this Weatherbeeta dog coat will keep your dog warm and comfortable in winter weather for a very reasonable price.
Best insulated dog jacket for extreme cold: Hurtta Extreme Warmer III Eco
Material: Not listed; taped seams
Insulation: Ball fiber
Warmth rating: Rated for -20F to 20F; Lost the least amount of heat during testing at 1.6 degrees
Available sizes: 10-26 in
Reflective: Reflective trim at shoulders and reflective appliques at hips
Waterproof: 10,000mm water column waterproof rating; water soaked in a small amount on the outer shell during testing but did not leak through
Sizing: Runs about one size too big
What we liked: Warmest dog coat we tested, high coverage, adjustable features
What we didn’t like: The metal buckle is somewhat hard to close
The Hurtta Extreme Warmer III Eco is by far the warmest dog coat on this list. It should be your pick if you and your dog frequently encounter sub-zero temperatures, or if you have a cold-sensitive dog that needs extra warmth. For dogs with thick double coats, or folks who live in milder temperatures, this coat would probably be overkill.
A reflective foil liner boosts the warmth factor of this jacket. Photo by Jae Thomas
Hurtta Extreme Warmer III Eco
The performance backs up the design, too. During testing, this jacket shed the least heat of the bunch during our lab tests. It’s nicely waterproof too, with a 10,000mm water column waterproof rating and taped seams. When exposed to heavy water, this jacket soaked up a small amount of moisture on the outer layer, but no liquid leaked through.
The Hurtta Extreme Warmer III Eco is beautifully made. It’s heavy duty, feels durable and warm, and feels like the kind of jacket you’d only need to buy once for a dog’s entire lifetime (maybe more). The quality is on par with human jackets.
The Hurtta Extreme Warmer offers high coverage and super warm insulation. Photo by Jae Thomas
This jacket runs about one size too big, so if your dog measures 24 inches from their shoulder blades to the base of their tail, opt for the 22-inch jacket instead, and so on. After sizing down, the jacket offered great coverage and fit a variety of dogs, and also has multiple cinch closures to adjust the size further. It’s also easy to get on and off your dog: just pull it over their head, and fasten the belly strap (and leg loops, if desired).
My only qualm with this coat is the metal closure on the belly strap. The closure itself feels too big for the hole it’s designed to attach to. I’ve tested the previous version of this coat, and I liked the plastic buckle on the old version much better than the new metal one.
This metal hook and loop closure of the new Hurtta Extreme Warmer coat is harder to use than a classic plastic buckle. Photo by Jae Thomas
Costing $105-$132 depending on size, this jacket is on the high end, but is worth it if you need extreme warmth for extremely cold weather.
Best dog coat for snow: Ruffwear Powder Hound Dog Jacket
Material: 75D polyester; stretch side panels
Insulation: 250 g polyfill
Warmth rating: First-tier insulation; shed two degrees in our lab-style warmth test
Available sizes: 13-42 in
Reflective: Reflective logo and rear trim
Waterproof: Water resistant with DWR coating; water soaked through on the sleeves during testing; some moisture accumulation on the insulated section, but did not get all the way through
Sizing: Runs slightly short in back length
What we liked: Zip design keeps dogs extra warm; stretch fabric at shoulders and on sides keeps full range of motion while adding extra coverage
What we didn’t like: Sleeves get wet in melting snow; a bit harder to put on than other options
If you regularly cross-country ski with your dog or simply go on long jaunts in powdery snow, the Ruffwear Powder Hound is a great jacket option. It offers solid warmth in a low-profile design that prioritizes range of motion. Stretch fabric on the sleeves and down the sides allow dogs to fully extend their front legs, perfect for running, jumping, and playing in the snow.
This jacket was impressively warm, featuring 250g of polyfill insulation while staying lightweight and nicely packable. The zip-up design also does a great job at trapping heat—the Powder Hound was one of the warmest while the dogs were wearing it, since it offers full belly, front, and back coverage. The downside of the zip-up design though, is that you have to pick up your dog’s two front feet to put it on, and getting their paws through the stretch fabric sleeves is a bit of a hassle.
Ruffwear Powder Hound Dog Jacket
A combination of insulation and technical stretch fabric on the Powder Hound jacket keeps your dog warm while allowing them to move freely. Photo by Jae Thomas
The sizing of the Powder Hound was generally good, but was one to two inches too short in the rear for most of my tester dogs. I prefer full neck to rump coverage on my dog jackets for warmth and protection from the elements, and Ruffwear jackets often run a bit too short for my liking.
This jacket is sized only by chest girth, which makes it hard to tell how much of your dog will be covered lengthwise. You’ll notice I have the same opinion on most of the Ruffwear jackets in this story, but I wish that the brand offered sizing based on chest girth, neck size, and back length instead of just chest girth. Often for longer dogs wearing Ruffwear coats, the size that fits your dog’s chest is a little bit too short lengthwise.
I wish the Ruffwear Powder Hound jacket was one or two inches longer in the rear. Photo by Jae Thomas
The waterproofing on this jacket is decent, but it’s by no means a rain jacket and is best for dry, powdery snow. I found that when my dogs ran around in snow that was melting, the sleeves got wet. The upper and lower insulated panels were better at repelling water than the technical stretch fabric.
Costing $100, the Powder Hound is in the middle range for pricing, and is a great option if you live in a climate that gets a lot of dry snow and your dog loves to zoom in it. However, if you’re looking for something completely waterproof, opt for our best overall pick, the Non-stop Dogwear Glacier Jacket 2.0.
Best waterproof dog coat for rain: Non-stop Dogwear Fjord Raincoat
Material: Polyester; TPU membrane; taped seams
Insulation: Not insulated
Warmth rating: Doesn’t provide much additional warmth
Available sizes: 24-90 cm
Reflective: Reflective logo on back and reflective designs on hips
Waterproof: 15,000mm water column waterproof rating, water did not soak into this coat during testing
Sizing: Runs true to size
What we liked: Huge range of sizes; accurate fit; high waterproof rating; can be machine washed and dried
What we didn’t like: A bit thin and doesn’t offer insulation
The Non-stop Dogwear Fjord jacket should be your first pick if you’re looking for a jacket to keep your dog dry. Of all the dog rain jackets I tested for our guide to the best dog rain jackets, this one was the most waterproof. It features a 15,000mm water column waterproof rating, and has the performance to back it up. Water beaded off of this jacket and didn’t soak into the outer shell at all during testing.
The Non-stop Dogwear Fjord also shines when it comes to sizing. It comes in 14 available back length sizes from 8.7 inches up to 37.8 inches (though the two biggest sizes were out of stock at the time of writing). The huge variety of sizing makes it accessible to the vast majority of dogs, and the fit of this jacket is impressive as well. I found it to be true to size, and fit our tester dogs nearly perfectly.
Non-stop Dogwear Fjord Raincoat
This is one of the easier dog coats to put on and take off, while still offering a solid amount of body coverage. It simply goes over your dog’s head and a chest strap is run between their front legs, under the belly, up their back, and secured with a single plastic buckle.
Non-stop Dogwear also takes dog range of motion seriously in their designs. Like with the Glacier Jacket 2.0, the Fjord offers free motion to dogs’ front and hind ends. The piece of fabric that covers the chest is secured to the sides in a high-cut design that allows dogs to extend fully when running. I preferred this design to jackets that cut directly across a dog’s front.
The Fjord raincoat has an impressive 15,000mm water column waterproof rating. Photo by Jae Thomas
In addition to being machine washable and dryable, the Fjord offers a slew of helpful, dog-focused extra features. I loved the cinch adjusters at the shoulder and neck, since they help customize fit and prevent water from entering the neck hole of the jacket. There’s also a reinforced harness leash hole, reflective accents, leash loops to keep the jacket in place, and drainage holes in the chest to keep your dog dry in case water does happen to get into the jacket.
I recommend this jacket for most dogs. Even if you have a double-coated breed that does a decent job of staying dry, this jacket can keep mud and excess water off of them when the weather is bad, so you don’t have to groom them as often.
The main downside of this jacket is that since it’s a rain jacket, it’s not insulated and won’t provide any additional warmth to your dog. Though none of the other picks on this list are as waterproof as this jacket, opt for the Weatherbeeta ComFiTech Premier Free Parka Deluxe Dog Coat or the Non-stop Dogwear Glacier Jacket 2.0 if you’re looking for insulation to keep your dog warm.
Reflective details on the rear of the Fjord raincoat make your dog visible in low-light conditions. Photo by Jae Thomas
In terms of pricing, the Fjord jacket sits in the middle of the pack for dog coats. If you’re just looking to keep your dog dry in rainy and snowy weather but don’t need the extra insulation, this is a high-quality pick.
Other dog coats and jackets we tested
Ruffwear Quinzee Dog Puffer Jacket
Material: 75D polyester
Insulation: 250 g polyfill
Warmth rating: First-tier insulation; shed 1.9 degrees in our lab-style warmth test
Available sizes: 13-42 in
Reflective: Reflective logo and rear trim
Waterproof: Water resistant; DWR coating; water soaked moderately into the top layer of fabric during testing but did not leak through
Sizing: Runs slightly short in back length
What we liked: Light, fluffy insulation is very warm; lightweight and packable;
What we didn’t like: Many colors and sizes were out of stock at the time of writing; water resistance isn’t the best
I love that the Ruffwear Quinzee puffer is light, fluffy, warm, and ultra packable. It truly feels like a human puffy jacket in terms of quality. It has 250g of post-consumer recycled polyester fill, which is the most fill of any dog coat on this list. This fluffy insulation did well in our warmth tests—it kept dogs quite warm in the cold, and only shed 1.9 degrees during our hot water bottle lab-style test.
This was the first jacket I bought for my dog, Miso, when I adopted her in 2020, and the model I have has held up pretty well over the years. While the DWR coating has worn off over the years and it has some frayed stitching, it’s still warm and fits well.
Ruffwear Quinzee Dog Puffer Jacket
I tested a new Quinzee jacket for this story, and the DWR coating on the new version is definitely better than my old one. But even then, this jacket is water resistant, not waterproof. During testing, the outer layer of the coat soaked up a good amount of water when I held it under the sink.
The Ruffwear Quinzee offered impressive insulation, but the fit could be better. Photo by Jae Thomas
There’s nothing inherently bad about this jacket other than the short fit. This is another Ruffwear coat that’s sized based on chest measurement, not back length. Ideally, I’d like for these jackets to include back length, chest size, and neck size for a more personalized fit. A decent amount of customer reviews also noted that their dog seemed to be between sizes, and I agree that that’s a common possibility based on the sizing. A jacket that fits a dog properly in the chest may be too short in back length to offer full coverage.
I liked the chest and belly coverage on the Ruffwear Quinzee coat, but wish it was longer in the back. Photo by Jae Thomas
Material: Nylon; polyester; plastic
Insulation: 120 g post-consumer recycled polyester
Warmth rating: Second-tier insulation; Only shed 2.3 degrees in our lab-style warmth test
Available sizes: 13-42 in
Reflective: Lightly reflective accents at shoulder, neck, and hips
Waterproof: 10,000mm water column waterproof rating, with a DWR and Polyurethane coating; water soaked lightly into the top layer of fabric during testing but did not leak through
Sizing: Runs fairly true to size for most dogs; wish the neck, chest, and back length sizing for each size was given
What we liked: Very warm for how lightweight it is, great range of motion
What we didn’t like: Slightly more difficult to put on than our top pick
The Ruffwear Vert was a front runner for best overall jacket, but a few small details kept it out of the running. It’s lightweight, warm, waterproof and has helpful extra features like leg loops, a harness leash portal, and reflective trim. It’s also reasonably priced at $100.
Ruffwear Vert Winter Dog Coat
The sizing of this jacket is done solely by chest measurement, and I found that this is an issue for dogs with specific measurements. Long, thin dogs may end up between sizes, where they’re too long for the smaller size and some of their rear hangs out, but they’re not broad enough for the bigger size to fit around the chest. I wish that the sizing of this coat was done by both back length and chest size for a more precise fit. With that being said, this jacket is one of the few Ruffwear options that didn’t run too short in back length for our specific tester dogs.
This jacket is also a bit harder to put on than our top picks. It slips over the dog’s head, then needs to be clipped on either side. The buckles are somewhat hidden in little fabric pockets, so it takes slightly longer to secure them.
Miso was right in between sizes for the Vert jacket. The leg loops on the medium size were too big for her. Photo by Jae Thomas
If you’re already a Ruffwear fan, your dog fits the brand’s sizing, and you don’t mind having slightly less coverage than our top pick, and can deal with putting two buckles on instead of one, the Vert is still a good pick.
Material: 75D Polyester; TPU membrane
Insulation: 200 g wool blend
Warmth rating: First-tier insulation; Only shed 1.9 degrees during our lab-style warmth test
Available sizes: 24-90 cm
Reflective: Small amount of reflective trim at shoulders and hips
Waterproof: 10,000mm water column waterproof rating; water beaded off and didn’t soak in during testing
Sizing: Runs true to size
What we liked: Ideal fit for most dogs; very warm
What we didn’t like: Most expensive coat of the bunch; wool lining makes it difficult to wash; many sizes out of stock; fewer reflective elements than non-wool version
The Non-stop Glacier Wool Jacket 2.0 is unique, given its combination of wool blend lining and ECO insulation. It’s incredibly warm while still being lightweight and breathable. In our lab-style warmth test, this jacket only shed 1.9 degrees. The much heavier, feature-rich Hurtta Extreme Warmer III Eco shed 1.6, for comparison.
Non-stop Dogwear Glacier Wool Jacket 2.0
Though this jacket is warm, lightweight, and has the same easy, on-and-off design as our winner, the Non-stop Dogwear Glacier 2.0, a few things held it back from being a winner. First, the wool lining makes it difficult to wash. The brand says to only machine wash it if you have a wool program on your washer, and special wool detergent. Even then, you likely run the risk of shrinking or ruining the lining on this jacket if you have to clean it. Second, the price of this jacket—the highest on this list—also deterred us from recommending it.
Wool lining makes this Non-stop Dogwear coat super warm, but difficult to clean. Photo by Jae Thomas
Material: Nylon
Insulation: Polyester
Warmth rating: Second-tier insulation; shed 3.3 degrees during our lab-style warmth test; poor fit impacted warmth in anecdotal testing
Available sizes: 6-24 in
Reflective: No reflective elements
Waterproof: No data on formal waterproof rating; water soaked lightly into the top layer of fabric during testing but did not leak through
Sizing: Runs simultaneously too big and too small; back was too short on most dogs, while the arm holes and chest area were too big
What we liked: Fluffy insulation; cute design
What we didn’t like: Sizing was off, no formal data on waterproofness or warmth ratings, more style than substance, warmth, and durability
There’s no arguing that the Little Beast Parka is cute. Who doesn’t want to dress their dog up in a puffer jacket? However, this jacket is more about style than functionality.
While the puffy insulation did well in our lab-style testing, the fit of the Little Beast Parka compromised how efficient the insulation was when the tester dogs were wearing it. The fit was too short in back length, while also being a bit too roomy near the front leg holes and around the belly. It’s also a bit hard to put on, since you have to lift up your dog’s two front legs and Velcro it under their belly.
Little Beast Parka
This Little Beast pick is probably the cutest jacket on the list, but minor fit issues kept it out of our top picks. Photo by Jae Thomas
Material: Nylon
Insulation: Polar fleece
Warmth rating: First-tier insulation; shed 1.8 degrees during out lab-style warmth test
Available sizes: 6-28 in
Reflective: Reflective trim on pockets
Waterproof: Water resistant, water soaked moderately into the top layer of fabric during testing but did not leak through
Sizing: Runs true to size
What we liked: Removable pants for extra warmth, true to size, decently priced
What we didn’t like: Outer material felt cheaper than other options; slightly impacted dogs’ range of motion in the front
The GF Pet Creekside Insulated Dog Snowsuit is a good pick for small dogs or thin dogs who could benefit from rear leg coverage and insulation, since it has detachable pants. This coat is also quite warm, and ranked in the top tier for insulation during our lab-style tests. Anecdotally, it also did a good job of keeping my tester dogs warm in cold weather, thanks to the fleece lining and fluffy insulation.
I didn’t like that the outer fabric felt thin and likely to snag in comparison to other jackets on this list, and the water resistance wasn’t great during testing. The thick Velcro strap in the front also cuts right across the dog’s shoulders, and somewhat limited my tester dogs’ range of motion.
GF Pet Creekside Insulated Dog Snowsuit
The attached pants are removable, and can easily be velcroed back on. Photo by Jae Thomas
Material: Duck canvas
Insulation: Polyfill
Warmth rating: Second-tier insulation; shed 3.3 degrees during our lab-style warmth test; design impacted warmth in anecdotal testing
Available sizes: 12-24 in
Reflective: No reflective elements
Waterproof: Water resistant; Water soaked into the top layer heavily, but didn’t soak through the lining
Sizing: Runs short in back length and big everywhere else
What we liked: Durable outer fabric; reasonable price; easy to put on and take off
What we didn’t like: Water soaked into the outer shell too easily; fit was awkward and impacted dog movement
Carhartt is known for durable workwear, and that’s the only part of this dog coat that I really liked. The outer duck canvas material is great quality, incredibly durable, and unlikely to snag, regardless of the environment you’re using it in. This jacket performed well in our durability tests, not showing any wear or rips.
The Carhartt Chore Insulated Coat lost major points in the fit department. It only comes in four sizes, and the sizes are all determined by chest and neck measurements. I found that the thickness of the front strap seemed like it was designed for a bigger dog, while the back length was too short for full neck to rump coverage.
Carhartt Chore Insulated Coat
The design of this coat, though easy to put on and take off, isn’t great for keeping your dog warm. It’s kept on by one Velcro strap in the front and one under the belly. Since the dog’s entire front and belly are exposed, I found that this coat didn’t do a great job of keeping my dogs warm, even though it performed fairly well in the lab-style warmth test.
Your pup will look like a little farm worker in this Carhartt coat, but it’s not the best design for most dogs. Photo by Jae Thomas
This dog jacket also lacked any extra features like leg loops or reflective trim, got easily soaked in our waterproofing tests, and made our tester dogs’ movement a little bit stiff since the front strap cuts directly across the shoulders.
Why your dog needs a cold weather coat or jacket
Many people think that since dogs have coats, they don’t need winter jackets. This is only true in some cases.
If you have a double-coated dog that was bred to be out in the snow all day (think: Alaskan Malamutes, Samoyeds, Siberian Huskies,and Finnish Lapphunds), your dog probably doesn’t need a winter coat. These double-coated breeds have thick, dense undercoats and harsh guard hairs that protect them from cold weather, snow, and even rain.
If you’ve ever bathed a double-coated dog before, you know how hard it is to get them wet down to the skin. This thick coat is so dense that it does a good job at keeping them dry, and can even block out wind.
A cold-weather dog jacket could do more harm than good for thick-coated breeds. If they’re running around and engaging in vigorous activity, you could actually cause these dogs to overheat by making them wear a jacket. Unless you have a double-coated breed that has shed their coat in the middle of winter, has underlying medical conditions, or has other external factors that would keep them from staying warm, you likely don’t need a dog jacket.
On the other hand, many other types of dogs benefit from wearing dog coats in the winter. Dogs who are old, puppies, dogs with low body fat, and dogs with thin single coats all get cold in the winter. Bully breed mixes, sighthounds, and any dog that doesn’t have an undercoat will need help regulating their temperature with a coat. Examples of breeds that have single coats are pointers, Viszlas, Pugs, Boston terriers, American Pit Bull Terriers, and American Staffordshire Terriers.
Buying advice
Size and fit
The fit of a dog jacket will determine how warm it keeps your dog. It doesn’t matter how warm a jacket claims to be—if it’s too big for your dog, it won’t keep them insulated. Look for a jacket that has chest and belly coverage, and opt for a fit that’s long enough to cover your dog from their shoulders to the base of their tail.
Weather protection (waterproofing, windproofing, insulation)
Most insulated dog jackets aren’t as waterproof as their rain jacket counterparts, but you can still opt for one that will work in inclement weather. Pick a jacket that has a water column waterproof rating of at least 10,000mm if possible. Water column waterproof ratings measure how much water pressure a fabric can take before the moisture starts to leak through it, and the higher the number, the more waterproof the fabric is.
Some dog coats lack water column waterproofing ratings but have DWR coatings on them. This is helpful in the short term, since the coating will repel water, but this coating degrades over time and you may need to reapply it.
In terms of insulation, look to see how many grams of insulation are in a dog coat, and what type of insulation is used. Most often, brands use recycled polyfill in their cold weather dog coats. Polyfill isn’t a regulated material, so it can be hard to determine how warm a jacket will be based on the insulation. In my testing, I found that 100+ grams of polyfill was a good medium weight dog jacket. For colder climates or for dogs who are more sensitive to the cold, look for 200+ grams of polyfill or opt for a jacket with a high-quality insulation like Primaloft.
Pretty much all of the jackets we tested are windproof, but when looking for a dog coat that will stand up to the wind, look for densely woven materials and multiple layers of fabric. For example, an insulated dog jacket with a lining, insulation, and an outer shell will be more windproof than a fleece dog sweater made of one layer of material.
Pants add extra insulation, and are great for thin dogs and old dogs who need more warmth. Photo by Jae Thomas
Ease of use
You won’t use a dog coat if it’s a hassle to put on and take off. Choose one that doesn’t require you to lift all four of your dog’s legs to put it on. Opting for one that has simple closures like Velcro or plastic buckles will also make your dog coat easier to get on and off. We like the type of coat that goes over your dog’s head, then gets secured with one buckle around the midline.
Comfort and mobility
Choosing a dog coat that offers your pup full range of motion is arguably the most important factor you should consider before making a purchase. Proper fit and range of motion will allow dogs to fully extend their front and rear legs while running. The material should not be so stiff, heavy, or bulky as to deter them from turning naturally. Avoid dog coats with big, stiff pieces of material that cut straight across a dog’s shoulders. Any dog apparel that cuts directly across the shoulder and is tight enough to be restrictive will likely alter your dog’s normal movement patterns and could cause orthopedic issues down the line.
A good dog jacket will allow full freedom of movement in both the front and rear. Photo by Jae Thomas
Fit plays into range of motion as well. A jacket that’s too small could restrict your dog’s front-end movement. A jacket that’s much too big could cause them to move awkwardly due to excess fabric.
Safety features
Opt for a dog jacket with reflective trim. The reflective elements will keep you and your dog visible to other people, dogs, and cars in stormy weather and low-light conditions.
Leash compatibility is also an important safety feature. If your dog is used to being on a leash connected to a harness, buying a dog coat with a leash portal around the mid-back is the best option.
Temperature suitability
Not all jackets have temperature ratings, but some do. A better way to measure warmth while shopping will be the amount of filling a jacket has. Though not an exact science, in my testing, the jackets with around 100 grams of polyfill kept my short-haired tester dogs warm (but not too hot) in temperatures between 20 degrees and 40 degrees. The jackets with additional polyfill up to 250 grams were good for temperatures below 20 degrees.
Temperature suitability will also depend on your dog. If you have a very thin-coated breed with low body fat like a Greyhound, you may want a warmer jacket even for temperatures in the 40s. A dog with a decent amount of coat may only need a jacket with a little bit of insulation for sub-zero temperatures.
Breed and coat type considerations
Not all dogs need winter jackets. If you have a double-coated dog that’s built to be out in the snow (Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, Samoyeds, etc.), they may overheat with an insulated coat. On the other hand, very small dogs, dogs with short single coats, and dogs with low body fat often do need coats to stay warm in chilly weather. If you have a sighthound, a short-coated bully breed, or a Chihuahua and you live in a cold climate, you’ll likely want to buy them a winter coat.
Different breeds and coat types may require different dog coats. Photo by Jae Thomas
Style and aesthetics
Style and aesthetics should be the last point you consider when purchasing a cold-weather dog jacket. Fit, warmth, and ease of movement should all be considered before design. Yes, there are a lot of cute, stylish dog coats out there. But the vast majority of these trendy jackets won’t fit your dog properly, won’t keep them warm, and aren’t worth your money. Instead, opt for a jacket from a brand who designs coats with features in mind for dogs—not just ones that will appeal to humans.
How to measure your dog for a jacket or coat
Dog coats tend to be sized using neck measurements, chest measurements, and back length measurements. Each of these measurements can be taken with a soft tape measure, or you can use a piece of string or ribbon, then measure it against a standard tape measure.
Neck measurement: Wrap a piece of string or a soft tape measure around the thickest part of your dog’s neck. You can also unbuckle your dog’s current collar and measure the length of the collar. If you have a dog with a big blocky head like a bully breed, Rottweiler, or Mastiff, you may also want to measure around the widest part of their head to make sure the jacket will fit over their head.
Back length measurement: The back length measurement is the most important in my opinion, since it will ensure your dog’s entire back is dry and warm. Run a tape measure or piece of strung from the point between your dog’s shoulder blades down to the base of their tail for an accurate back length measurement.
Chest measurement: To take your dog’s chest measurement, run a soft tape measure or a piece of string around the widest part of their chest and up their back.
The Little Beast Parka fits a little loose in the belly, and a little too short in the rear for good insulation. Photo by Jae Thomas
Some brands (including Ruffwear) size primarily on chest measurements. This is sometimes problematic because chest measurements and back length measurements may not always add up to fit your dog. I’ve found that some jackets will fit a dog’s back length but be much too big for a dog’s chest measurement. Don’t feel like you have to settle for improper sizing. You don’t want a jacket that’s too big in the chest, because it won’t keep your dog warm efficiently. Shop around for a brand that most closely fits all your dog’s measurements.
Tips for walking your dog in cold weather
Dress your dog appropriately
Keeping your dog warm will depend on our dog’s coat type, body type, age, and underlying conditions. Very young puppies and older dogs have a harder time staying warm, so they could benefit from a warm winter coat. Dogs with thin single coats and dogs with low body fat may also have a harder time staying warm in winter weather.
If your dog has a thick double coat that’s built to be out in the snow all day, putting a winter coat on them could do more harm than good by causing them to overheat.
When you put a jacket on your dog, take note of how warm they get—especially if they’re running heavily. Watch out for panting and other signs of overheating, and check your dog’s temperature regularly. If they seem hot, take the jacket off.
The protective hood of the Hurrta Extreme Warmer does a great job at trapping heat around your dog’s neck in really cold conditions. Photo by Jae Thomas
Limit exposure time
Just like in dangerously hot temperatures, avoid walking your dog for long periods of time in sub-zero temps if your dog is sensitive to the cold. If you have a Husky, Malamute, or other thick-coated northern breed, you may have a hard time getting your dog inside when it’s freezing.
Check the weather
Some dogs dislike snow, rain, and heavy wind. Try to plan your dog’s outings around inclement weather if you know a storm is rolling in.
Protect their paws
Dog’s paws can be sensitive to cold weather. If you notice your dog picking up their paws while out in a walk, they could benefit from dog boots. Ice melt salt can also damage dog paws, so check to ensure you’re using a pet-friendly ice melt in the colder months. If you’re not sure what kind of ice melt is being used locally, avoid areas that have been salted.
Keep them visible
Especially in stormy or low-light conditions, visibility will keep you and your dog safe. Opt for jackets with reflective trim, so cars, other people, and other dogs can see you and your pup while you’re out and about.
Stay on safe paths
If the trail you normally walk your dog on is dangerously icy, pick a different option. Dogs don’t have the best traction when walking or running on ice, and a bad slip could cause soft tissue injuries.
Watch for signs of discomfort
If your dog is shivering or refusing to walk because of cold snow or ice on the ground, it’s time to wrap up your walk and head inside.
Stay hydrated
Many dogs drink less water in the winter. Make sure they’re hydrated for winter adventures by adding some water to their meals.
Wipe paws after walks
Especially if you were walking on salted roads or paths, wiping your dog’s feet after a walk will protect their paw pads.
Use a leash
Unless your dog has 100% reliable recall, use a leash—especially if it’s storming out. You don’t want to be out looking for a lost dog in snowy, sub-zero weather.
Maintain their grooming
If your dog is prone to snowballs on their paws, try trimming the hair around the paw and between the paw pads under the foot. The less hair on their feet, the less there is for snow to stick to.
Know your dog’s limits
If you know your dog doesn’t like the cold, keep walks short and instead, play or provide enrichment in the house during the winter months.
Care and maintenance of cold weather coats
Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for washing dog coats and jackets, so you don’t compromise the efficacy of the insulation or the waterproof exterior. Most jackets can be machine washed in cold water and air dried. Some can only be hand washed and air dried.
If your dog’s coat has a DWR coating, you may notice that it becomes less waterproof over time. Reapplying a DWR coating to your dog’s coat after a few years of use can extend its life and keep it waterproof longer. Learn more in our How to Clean and Repair GORE-TEX and Other Shells guide.
How we researched and tested
To start the process, I researched top-rated dog jackets and coats as reviewed by other reputable review and recommendation sites. I also looked into user reviews for popular dog jackets on Amazon and Chewy. After coming up with a list of 11 dog coats, I created a rubric and tested them all against the following criteria:
Ease of use: I put each jacket on and off multiple dogs to see which ones were the most user-friendly. I tried them on dogs who sit still politely and dogs who are more wiggly to get a good sense of ease of use.
Sizing and fit: I checked the recommended sizing on each dog, and determined whether each of the jackets runs large, small, or was true to size. I noted jackets that were sized awkwardly, and gave extra points to jackets that had a large range of available sizing.
Range of motion: I evaluated each dog’s movement with and without each jacket to determine if the dogs had full reach in the front and rear. I also noted any jackets that the dogs moved stiffly in.
Waterproofness: I started waterproof testing by ranking each jacket’s formal waterproof rating if available. I then tested each jacket on dogs in snowy and muddy conditions and noted anecdotal waterproofness. Additionally, I simulated rain and wet conditions by running each jacket under the sink for one minute and rubbing water into each one to see if any moisture soaked up into the outermost layer.
Fabric durability: I let my tested dogs run and play in each of the jackets,and noted any loose stitching or snags. I also simulated a durability test by rubbing each jacket with similar pressure on asphalt for ten seconds, noting any that ripped or wore down.
Cleaning: I washed each jacket according to the recommended cleaning instructions and noted any abnormalities like shrinking or loss of waterproofing, if applicable.
Warmth: I tested warmth by putting each jacket on my tester dogs in the house, and checking their temperature with a temperature gun before and after wearing the jacket for 20 minutes. I also ran a simulated hot water bottle test, where I warmed water to 101-103 degrees (similar to dog body temperature) and wrapped it in each of the jackets. After ten minutes, I measured the temperature of the water with a digital thermometer and noted which jackets kept the water the warmest.
Build quality: I compared each jacket to each other, and ranked the quality of the outer, lining, insulation, stitching, and fasteners.
Weight and packability: I weighed each jacket and ranked the overall packability. The best dog coats should be able to be packed down easily and taken on the go.
Extra features: I noted any extra features on the dog coats, including reflective trim, leash holes, adjustability, and leg loops. The best dog jackets had all of these features.
Price: I evaluated the cost of each jacket, and determined whether it was worth the price.
I tested each jacket on my own two dogs: Miso the short-haired border collie mix and Dashi the double-coated collie. A friend’s pack of Rough Collies: Mimmo, Gigi, Connor, and Ruby tested some of the jackets for fit, and Katla the short-haired mixed breed, Mack, the cattle dog mix with a thinning coat, and Tide the Border Collie also assisted in testing.
Dashi watching over the hot water bottle warmth testing. Photo by Jae Thomas
I tested each of the coats on this list in active snow, cold weather with snow on the ground, sub-freezing temperatures, and strong winds. In addition to noting anecdotal testing results in these conditions, I also simulated some additional lab-style tests (detailed above) to track waterproofing and warmth more directly.
Why you should trust us / About the author
I’ve written and edited numerous pet and lifestyle product reviews for sites like CNN Underscored, Whole Dog Journal, and more. I was formerly the shopping editor at Mashable, covering tech and lifestyle products before leaving to pursue my incredibly niche passion of dog product testing. I have a journalism degree from NYU, and have been involved in commerce writing since I graduated in 2020.
I’m also a dog trainer, dog show exhibitor, dog sport competitor, and I’ve worked as kennel help and as a dog show assistant in the past. I teach both behavioral lessons and sport classes, and I compete in AKC conformation, rally, agility, barn hunt, and herding with my two dogs. I basically spend all of my waking hours with either my own dogs or my client dogs.
Related to dog coats, I have one dog (Miso) with a thin single coat and low body fat percentage who shivers in chilly weather—especially if she’s standing still. I also have a Rough Collie (Dashi) with a thick double coat who, in most cases, doesn’t need a dog winter jacket. However, Dashi is currently recovering from a sports-related soft tissue injury, and our dog physical therapist (yes, that’s a real thing) recommended putting a coat on her in cold weather to keep her muscles warm and at less risk for re-injury. Both of my dogs are currently ideal candidates for dog coat testing, and some of their canine friends helped us out with this story, too.
My conformation (dog show) background also gives me a unique view on fit and sizing for dog apparel. Not only do I know the body types and structure of most dog breeds, I also have an eye for movement and can tell when apparel restricts a dog’s range of motion.
