As a dog owner, you know that your furry friend needs to go outside, rain or shine. But let’s face it, wet dog smell is not pleasant for anyone. That’s where a good dog raincoat comes in handy. Not only will it keep your pup dry and comfortable during walks in inclement weather, but it will also save you from having to towel off a soaked and shivering pooch when you get home.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the top 10 dog raincoats of 2024. We’ve scoured the market, read countless reviews, and tested many of these coats ourselves to bring you the best of the best. Whether you have a tiny terrier or a large labrador, we’ve got you covered with raincoat recommendations for every size and breed.
But before we dive into the specific product recommendations, let’s talk about what features to look for when shopping for a dog raincoat.
What to Look for in a Dog Raincoat
A good dog raincoat should check off a few key boxes:
- Waterproof Material: First and foremost, a raincoat needs to be waterproof, not just water-resistant. Look for coats made with high-quality, waterproof materials like polyester or nylon.
- Comfortable Fit: The coat should fit snugly but not too tightly. It needs to allow for easy movement and not restrict your dog’s natural gait. Many coats have adjustable straps or elasticized edges for a secure fit.
- Proper Coverage: A raincoat should cover most of your dog’s body, from neck to tail. Some coats even have hoods for extra head and ear protection.
- Ease of Putting On and Taking Off: Struggling to get your dog into a raincoat can be frustrating. Look for coats with simple velcro or snap closures for quick and easy dressing.
- Visibility: If you walk your dog in low light conditions, consider a raincoat with reflective strips or bright colors for added visibility and safety.
- Durability: Dogs can be rough on their gear, so choose a raincoat made to last. Reinforced seams, sturdy closures, and rip-stop fabric are all signs of a durable coat.
Now that you know what to look for, let’s get into our top picks for the best dog raincoats of 2024.
How to Measure Your Dog for a Raincoat
Before you start shopping, it’s important to know your dog’s measurements to ensure a proper fit. Raincoats that are too big can slip off or trip your dog, while coats that are too small will be uncomfortable and restrictive. Here’s how to measure your dog for a raincoat:
- Length: Measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. This is the most important measurement for determining coat size.
- Girth: Measure around the widest part of your dog’s chest, just behind the front legs. This measurement will help ensure the coat isn’t too tight.
- Neck: Measure around your dog’s neck where a collar would sit. This is important for coats with hoods or high collars.
Most raincoat manufacturers provide sizing charts based on these measurements. If your dog falls between sizes, it’s usually best to size up for a more comfortable fit.
Top Raincoat Picks for Small, Medium and Large Dogs
Small Dogs (up to 20 lbs)
- Ruffwear Sun Shower Rain Jacket:
- Material: Waterproof, PVC-free ripstop nylon with DWR coating
- Features: Adjustable hood with toggles, reflective trim, leash portal, non-insulated design
- Sizes: XXS-XL (fits dogs 13-22 inches in length)
- Colors: Blue Dusk, Meadow Green, Sockeye Red
- Price: $49.95
- Official Website
- RC Pet Products Packable Dog Rain Poncho:
- Material: Waterproof, breathable ripstop nylon
- Features: Adjustable hood, reflective trim, packable design with carrying pouch
- Sizes: S-XL (fits dogs 12-20 inches in length)
- Colors: Yellow, Orange, Blue, Green
- Price: $29.99
- Official Website
- Hurtta Torrent Coat:
- Material: Waterproof, breathable Houndtex® laminated fabric
- Features: Adjustable collar, waist, and hem, reflective details, non-insulated design
- Sizes: 8-18 (fits dogs 8-18 inches in length)
- Colors: Cherry, Raven, Juniper, Coral
- Price: $75.00
- Official Website
Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs)
- Weatherbeeta Parka 1200D Deluxe Dog Coat:
- Material: Waterproof, breathable 1200 denier ripstop outer shell with 220g polyfill insulation and fleece lining
- Features: Adjustable neck and chest straps, reflective strips, leash hole, insulated design
- Sizes: 16-26 (fits dogs 16-26 inches in length)
- Colors: Black/Grey, Purple/Grey
- Price: $73.95
- Official Website
- Hurtta Drizzle Coat:
- Material: Waterproof, breathable Houndtex® laminated fabric
- Features: High collar, adjustable waist and hem, reflective details, non-insulated design
- Sizes: 12-28 (fits dogs 12-28 inches in length)
- Colors: Raven, Juniper, Coral, Blue
- Price: $65.00
- Official Website
- Ruffwear Aira Full Coverage Dog Jacket:
- Material: Waterproof, windproof, breathable 70 denier ripstop nylon with DWR coating
- Features: Full coverage design, zipper closure, reflective trim, non-insulated
- Sizes: S-XL (fits dogs 17-32 inches in length)
- Colors: Red Rock, Baja Blue, Larkspur Purple
- Price: $89.95
- Official Website
Large Dogs (over 50 lbs)
- Hurtta Monsoon Coat:
- Material: Waterproof, breathable Houndtex® laminated fabric with Houndtex® 1000 reinforcements
- Features: Full coverage design, adjustable collar, waist, and rear hem, reflective details, non-insulated
- Sizes: 12-35 (fits dogs 12-35 inches in length)
- Colors: Raven, Cherry, Juniper, Orange
- Price: $100.00
- Official Website
- Ruffwear Overcoat Fuse Jacket:
- Material: Waterproof, windproof 300 denier polyester outer shell with recycled 250g high-loft polyester insulation
- Features: Sleeved design, zippered closure, reflective trim, insulated for warmth
- Sizes: S-XL (fits dogs 17-32 inches in length)
- Colors: Canyonlands Orange, Larkspur Purple, Baja Blue
- Price: $99.95
- Official Website
- Carhartt Chore Coat for Dogs:
- Material: Water-repellent, durable 12-ounce, firm-hand cotton duck fabric with quilted nylon lining
- Features: Corduroy-trimmed collar, full chest coverage, rivet-reinforced pockets, quilted lining for warmth
- Sizes: S-XL (fits dogs 16-30 inches in length)
- Colors: Carhartt Brown
- Price: $49.99
- Official Website
Caring for Your Dog’s Raincoat: Washing & Storage Tips
To keep your dog’s raincoat in top condition, it’s important to clean and store it properly. Here are some tips:
- Washing: Most raincoats can be machine washed on a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Avoid fabric softeners, which can reduce the coat’s waterproofing. Always check the care label for specific instructions.
- Drying: Hang the coat to air dry. Avoid putting it in the dryer, as high heat can damage the waterproof coating and seams.
- Storage: Once the coat is completely dry, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or humid areas, which can degrade the fabric over time. If the coat has a packable design, follow the folding instructions for compact storage.
With proper care, a high-quality dog raincoat can last for many rainy seasons to come.
Frequently Asked Questions about Dog Raincoats
Do dogs really need raincoats?
While dogs have natural coats, a raincoat provides an extra layer of protection from wet and cold conditions. This is especially important for dogs with thin, short hair or those prone to getting cold easily.
Can I use a human raincoat for my dog?
It’s not recommended. Human raincoats are not designed to fit a dog’s body shape and can be uncomfortable or restrictive. It’s best to use a coat specifically designed for dogs.
How do I get my dog used to wearing a raincoat?
Introduce the coat gradually. Let your dog sniff and investigate it first. Put it on for short periods of time, offering treats and praise. Gradually increase the wear time until your dog is comfortable.
Can I leave the raincoat on my dog all day?
No, raincoats are designed for outdoor use only. Always remove the coat when your dog is indoors to prevent overheating and discomfort.
What if my dog hates wearing a raincoat?
Some dogs may resist wearing clothing. If your dog really dislikes the coat, don’t force it. You can try using a waterproof dog umbrella or quick-drying towel instead.
Conclusion
A good dog raincoat is a worthwhile investment for any dog owner. It not only keeps your furry friend dry and comfortable in wet weather but also makes post-walk clean-up a breeze. When shopping for a raincoat, look for one that is waterproof, well-fitting, easy to put on and take off, and appropriate for your dog’s size and breed.
Our top picks for the best dog raincoats of 2024 include options for small, medium, and large dogs from trusted brands like Ruffwear, Hurtta, Weatherbeeta, and more. Remember to measure your dog carefully before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
With the right raincoat, you and your dog can enjoy walks in any weather. So gear up and get out there – your pup will thank you!
