When the mercury drops and the cold wave takes over, all we (and our dogs) want is to huddle up and stay cozy. A dog jacket is perfect for such weather!

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, long-haired dogs or dogs with thick coats can handle chilly weather better due to their fur, which helps retain heat. However, short-haired and short-legged breeds like French Bulldogs or Greyhounds are more exposed to cold air and need a jacket or coat to stay warm.

We’ve handpicked the best dog jackets and coats, from puffer jackets in vibrant colors to fleece ones for added warmth, to durable faux fur hoodies for maximum coverage. Your pup will fall in love with these winter essentials, making your job of keeping them warm much easier!

Does Your Dog Need to Wear a Jacket?

Whether your dog needs a jacket or not, depends on several factors:

Breed: Your dog’s breed matters when it comes to wearing a jacket. Dogs with thick fur, like Huskies, can retain body heat, while lean-bodied dogs with thin fur, like Greyhounds, might need an additional layer for warmth.

Age and Health: Senior dogs and young puppies may struggle more with cold weather. Health conditions like arthritis can worsen if a dog is feeling cold. Puppies are more sensitive to cold than adult dogs as they are closer to the ground and have less body fat to keep their bodies warm.

Activity Level: Active dogs, like German Shepherds, generate more heat, helping them to stay toasty in colder weather. On the other hand, less mobile dogs, like Shih Tzus, may need extra layers to keep warm.

9 Best Dog Jackets for Winter

Best Overall–Cahartt Insulated Dog Jacket

This jacket provides excellent coverage, extending beyond just the rib cage, making it perfect for working dogs. The muted tones give off a classic, hardworking vibe, ideal for pups who take their tasks seriously.

Whether it’s cold, windy, or snowy, the durable cotton duck fabric won’t lose its shape or tear, keeping your dog protected from strong winds. Comfort is a top priority, with a nylon lining ensuring airflow and keeping your pup dry during outdoor adventures.

The chore jacket’s adjustability is spot on, thanks to the Velcro fastener that allows for a snug fit without compromising shape. You don’t have to worry about rain either, as this jacket keeps your pup dry, avoiding that dreaded wet dog smell.

The sturdy stitching ensures long-lasting wear, and the jacket fits comfortably without restricting movement. Plus, the side pockets are perfect for carrying small essentials like ID tags, poop bags, or flea and tick lotion.

Best Fleece–Gold Paw Stretch Fleece Dog Coat

The Gold Paw Stretch Fleece Dog Coat is perfect for keeping your big pup warm and comfortable this winter. Made from stretchy fabric, this fleece slips easily over your dog’s body, providing just the right amount of warmth while allowing full freedom of movement. The snug fit adds a stylish touch to your dog’s look.

Worried about cleaning? This dog jacket is machine washable! Plus, there are no Velcro or buttons to fuss with—just slip it over your dog’s head, and it fits like a charm. Available in a wide range of sizes and colors, it’s designed to fit dogs of all shapes and sizes.

The fabric maintains its shape, even with stretching, and allows room for your dog to grow. However, it’s not ideal for long-haired dogs, as it can create static and tug on fur when removed. The fabric is thin but fits closely to provide maximum warmth.

Best Reversible Vest–ThinkPet Reversible Dog Vest

If you want to keep your pup warm and cozy, the ThinkPet Reversible Dog Vest is a great option. This padded jacket covers your pet’s upper body, rib cage, and lower body, offering warmth and comfort. It’s designed to be worn over a harness, with a zipper on the upper side for easy leash attachment to the D-ring or a dog collar.

The stretchy fabric around the chest allows for movement and growth, making it a comfortable choice that your pup will be excited to wear. The hook-and-loop attachment makes putting the jacket on and taking it off quick and easy.

The jacket features highly reflective piping, so you can spot your pup even during dark, rainy walks. However, only one side of the jacket is water-repellent, and the wide collar opening may expose some of your dog’s body to rain and cold air. If you prefer a snug fit around the neck, adding some Velcro for adjustability might help. If you are looking for a jacket with more coverage around the neck area, try the Hurtta Extreme Warmer Coat.

Best for Hiking–Ruffwear Climate Changer Fleece Jacket

If you love taking your dog on hikes, the Ruffwear Climate Changer Fleece Jacket is a great choice. This jacket fits snugly to your dog’s body, preventing it from catching on bushes or thorns. It has sleeves that protect your dog’s shoulders and upper arms from the cold, and the front-sleeved style with a zippered closure helps retain heat, keeping your dog cozy.

Made from recycled polyester, this lightweight and fast-drying dog winter jacket is durable and environmentally friendly. Your dog will hardly notice he’s wearing a jacket since it doesn’t add extra weight. The fleece dries quickly, so even if it rains, it won’t stay wet for long.

While the zipper offers a more tailored fit compared to Velcro, it can sometimes catch in your dog’s fur, especially if they have long hair. It might also be a bit challenging to put on if your dog is wiggly.

Best Hoodie–Zack & Zoey Basic Hoodie for Dogs

The Zack & Zoey Basic Hoodie for Dogs is a stylish and practical choice for keeping your pup warm this winter. Available in vibrant rainbow colors, this hoodie adds a fun touch to your dog’s wardrobe.

Unlike other jackets, it features a hood to protect your dog’s head from rain and snow, making walks more enjoyable. The fabric is comfortable and keeps its shape even after multiple washes, so it won’t bunch up on your dog.

A cute back pocket is handy for storing treats or poop bags during walks or hikes. The hoodie can be worn over a harness, with a small leash hole for easy access to the D-ring.

However, sizing can be tricky—if you’re unsure between sizes, choose the larger one. The hood may be too small for dogs with large heads, like a Bull Mastiff, but it fits smaller breeds like Shih Tzus well. It’s an affordable option, but not ideal for larger dogs.

Best Parka–WeatherBeeta Parka for Dogs

The WeatherBeeta Parka for Dogs is designed to keep your pup warm and dry. Made from tough, long-lasting fabric with a special waterproof coating, this jacket also allows air to flow, making it breathable and comfortable. The inner layer is cozy, ensuring your dog stays warm all day.

The parka provides maximum coverage, protecting your dog’s belly and chest without restricting movement. So. It’s one of the best waterproof dog coats with underbelly protection. Your pup can chase a ball or catch a frisbee with ease.

The jacket features a convenient opening for attaching a leash to a harness, so your escape artist remains on track. The curved seam on the back fits nicely around your dog’s tail, and stretchy leg straps keep the jacket in place no matter how much they move.

Reflective bits make it easy to spot your dog in the dark, and shoulder gussets prevent irritation by allowing free movement. However, the collar may stick out and sometimes catch thorns, and this canine fit is best suited for daily wear and light to moderate rain, not torrential downpours.

Best Padded Vest–Gooby Padded Vest

The Gooby Padded Vest jacket is the only one on the list with a built-in D-ring, so your dog doesn’t need to wear a harness—less burden, more comfort. It’s perfect for light rain, as the water doesn’t stay on the jacket, and it dries quickly. Made from the same soft fabric used in baby blankets, this vest keeps your dog cozy and warm during cold winter walks.

For convenience, there’s a zipper down the middle of the back, and a snap button to hold the vest in place while you zip it up. The jacket also features a zipper guard to prevent your dog’s fur from getting caught. The wide opening at the bottom allows for easy peeing and pooping without wetting the jacket.

However, the D-ring could be stronger, so if you have a very active dog, you might want to consider other options since the D-ring may not be sturdy enough.

Best for Snow Outings–Hurtta Extreme Warmer Dog Winter Coat

If you need a jacket that will keep your dog extremely warm during snowy outings, the Hurtta Extreme Warmer is a top choice. While it’s on the pricier side, it’s worth it, especially if you live in a place where it snows most of the year. This jacket is perfect for chilly hikes, even when the temperature drops below freezing.

The standout feature is its heat-reflective foil lining, which bounces your dog’s body heat back to them, keeping them extra warm without causing overheating. The breathable material ensures air flows freely, keeping your dog’s fur dry.

The jacket also has two leash attachment openings—one for a collar and another for a harness. Although it has a tall collar instead of a hood, it still covers your dog’s ears and head for added warmth.

You can adjust the fit at the waist and legs, making it ideal for dogs with arthritis since there’s no need to struggle with armholes. You can pair this coat with your dog’s snow boots for a cozier feel.

Best on a Budget–JoyDaog Fleece Lined Warm Dog Jacket

The JoyDaog Fleece Lined Warm Dog Jacket is a budget-friendly and cozy option for keeping your dog warm this winter. This adorable jacket features snap buttons, eliminating the common issue of Velcro sticking to or tangling with your dog’s fur. The elastic armholes make it easy to slip your dog’s legs through without any fuss, and the soft fleece lining inside ensures your pup stays warm and comfortable.

Since the jacket isn’t stretchy, it’s important to measure your dog accurately to get the right size and avoid fitting issues. Available in 8 vibrant colors and 7 sizes, this jacket is versatile and stylish. While it’s not ideal for heavy rain, it will keep your dog warm during light rain and cold winds. Plus, it’s designed to be short enough from the back, so your dog won’t accidentally pee on it.

Final Words

Our favorite is Caharrt insulated dog jacket as its superior duck canvas material protects your pup from strong winds, and snow. The soft and breathable nylon lining keeps your dog dry and comfortable. If you want to do away with the hassle of zippers, and Velcro,  the Gold Paw Stretch fleece dog coat is your best bet. Besides being a pullover, it’s one of the best fleece jackets to keep your fido warm on chilly days. And for chilly hikes, our pick for best for hikes, the Ruffwear Climate Changer Jacket, is a game-changer for your furbaby.

Things to Consider When Buying a Dog Jacket

When buying a dog jacket, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure your pup stays comfortable and protected.

Size

Although most dog winter clothes come with buttons and Velcro for adjustability, measuring your dog before buying a dog jacket is important to find the right fit. Measure your dog’s chest girth and the length from the base of their neck to the base of their tail to find the right fit.

A well-fitted jacket ensures comfort and freedom of movement. If your dog is clawing at or chewing on his jacket, or if he’s resisting walking, it may be a sign that the jacket isn’t the right fit for him

Insulation

The type of insulation matters, especially in colder climates. Look for jackets with materials like fleece or faux fur lining, which provide extra warmth. If your dog has short fur, consider jackets with polyester fills for keeping him toasty warm. Also, Nylon linings are breathable and soft, keeping your dog cozy without overheating.

If your dog is panting, the coat may be too warm for him. If he is shivering, you may want to layer him with warmer doggy clothes.

Weather

When thinking about the weather, it’s all about keeping your dog comfy no matter what’s going on outside. If you’re in a place where the cold bites or the wind howls, go for a padded or waterproof jacket that covers more of your dog’s body, especially the underbelly. This way, your pup stays warm and dry, even on the chilliest walks. But if you live where winters are mild, a lightweight jacket is just right—it’ll keep your dog cozy without overheating. The key is to match the jacket to the weather so your dog can enjoy every outing, rain or shine!

Washability

Dogs love to explore and get into all kinds of messes, so you’ll want a jacket that’s easy to clean. Go for one that’s machine-washable—just toss it in the wash, and you’re good to go.

Quick-drying materials are a big plus, too, so your dog’s jacket is ready for the next adventure in no time. After all, the less time you spend scrubbing, the more time you can spend enjoying those walks and playdates!

Closure Type

If your dog has a long, flowing coat, Velcro closures might be a bit of a hassle. They can get tangled in all that fur and make dressing your pup a bit of a challenge. Instead, look for jackets with zippers or pullover styles. Zippers slide on smoothly, and pullovers are a breeze to get on and off without fuss. This way, you’ll keep your dog’s coat tangle-free and make getting ready for walks a whole lot easier!

Durability

When it comes to durability, you want a jacket that can keep up with your dog’s adventurous spirit. Look for materials like tough nylon or rugged polyester that won’t easily tear or lose their shape. If your dog loves running through bushes or rolling in the snow, a sturdy jacket will stand up to all that action. Plus, it’s a bonus if the jacket is water-resistant or windproof, so it can handle whatever the weather throws at you. A durable jacket means fewer replacements, and more fun for you and your furry friend!

Conclusion

Just like us, our furry friends need extra layers on chilly days. While some dogs with thick coats can handle the cold just fine, leaner breeds like greyhounds might need a little more help staying warm. For those frosty days, consider outfitting your pup with a cozy dog jacket, hoodie, or fleece coat.

A well-designed jacket will cover most of your dog’s body and include warm linings to trap heat and keep him toasty. With the right garment, your pup will stay snug and comfortable, ready to enjoy every winter adventure!