The Best Small Dog Coats
Whether you have a new puppy or a petite pooch, ensuring they stay warm and dry during the cooler months is a must. Windproof, waterproof, and fleece-lined coats are designed to protect your pet from the elements, especially if they don't have thick fur of their own. We've rounded up a few of our favorite coats for small dogs to give them an extra layer of warmth as the weather gets colder.
What to Look For
After researching small dog coats, we found the best ones are lightweight, warm, and comfortable. Based on these requirements, our top pick is the Kuoser coat. This flannel-lined jacket is soft inside and has a windproof exterior to protect your pup from cold air. Your dog can easily wear this coat over their harness or collar without creating too much bulk. And you can slide their leash through the hole in the back to get them ready for a walk. We also love the waterproof raincoat from Ezierfy because it won’t weigh down even the smallest dog. The lightweight design offers full coverage against the rain to keep your pup warm and dry. Keep reading to discover your new favorite small dog coat.
Kuoser Reversible Dog Coat
Pick and choose
Designed for multiple occasions, Kuoser’s reversible coat will provide the warmth and protection your dog needs throughout the cooler seasons. There is a layer of soft flannel on one side and a quilted waterproof layer on the other. And the internal padding creates insulation to keep your pup warm whenever they’re outside. Available in multiple sizes, including small and extra-small, your furry friend will never have to face the cold without a coat again.
Pros:
- There are various color options available.
- This coat has two adjustment points on the chest and under the belly to get the best fit.
Cons:
- Some dogs may be afraid of the sound of the adhesive strips when adjusting the coat.
JoyDaog Fleece-Lined Dog Coat
Cozy layers
Protecting your furry friend from the cold doesn’t have to be complicated, especially with this cozy coat from JoyDaog. From the windproof exterior to the simple snap closure, your dog will love wearing this jacket whenever they step outside. The outer polyester layer has a soft fleece lining that will keep your pup warm without irritating their skin. And this coat even has a collar to protect their neck on windy days.
Pros:
- You can slide your dog’s leash through the hole in the back of the coat to reach their collar or harness.
- There is elastic around the leg holes and waist area to prevent the coat from slipping.
Cons:
- This small dog coat isn’t waterproof.
Norbi Small Dog Cold Weather Coat
This heavy-duty dog coat from Norbi will ensure your pup stays as warm as possible when they’re out and about. The innovative design includes a full-coverage belly panel and a durable plastic zipper that secures the coat on your dog’s back. There are also adjustable straps to tighten the coat and allow it to double as a harness. Plus, the fleece-lined interior makes it extra cozy, so your dog won’t ever want to take off their new coat.
Pros:
- This dog coat is machine washable.
- The extra fabric at the top of the zipper will prevent your dog’s fur and hair from getting caught in the closure.
Cons:
- There aren’t any reflective strips to make your pet more visible at night.
JoyDaog Fleece-Lined Dog Coat with Hood
Dressed for the weather
As the temperature continues to drop, you can customize your dog’s outfit to fit the weather with this fleece-lined coat from JoyDaog. The basic shell is windproof and waterproof, so your pup can enjoy the soft lining on their torso and front legs. But there are also back leg and hood pieces that you can attach to the coat for extra protection. Your petite pup will be ready for anything in their new full-coverage coat.
Pros:
- Your dog will still be able to do their business while wearing this coat, whether they are male or female.
- The material isn’t stiff, so your dog can run and play while wearing the coat.
Cons:
- There isn’t an opening to clip a leash to your dog’s harness or collar.
Ezierfy Waterproof Raincoat for Dogs
If you live somewhere that gets a lot of rain instead of wind and snow, we have a great coat to keep your pet dry and warm. Ezierfy’s raincoat is completely waterproof, allowing water to slide off instead of collecting and soaking through the material. The bright coat has a reflective stripe around the middle, making it perfect for early morning and nighttime walks. And it even has an adjustable hood to keep your dog’s head, ears, and neck from getting soaked.
Pros:
- The waterproof fabric is easy to wipe clean if it gets dirty.
- The lightweight raincoat won’t bother sensitive dogs or get in the way while they walk.
Cons:
- It isn’t available in sizes below small.
What kind of coat should I buy for my small dog?
First, consider your dog’s breed and how much insulation they’ll need on cold days. For example, a short-haired dachshund doesn’t have as much protection from wind and cold temperatures as shelties, who tend to have much longer and thicker fur. This means you will probably need to buy a thick, fleece-lined coat for your dachshund, while your sheltie would be comfortable in a thinner jacket. If you notice your dog is shivering, whining, hunched over, or generally anxious, even with an extra layer of warmth, you may need to buy them additional cold-weather gear for protection.
How often should I wash my dog’s coat?
If your dog only wears their coat occasionally, such as when they are playing in the snow or going on long walks, it only needs to be washed every few weeks. But if they wear it at least once a day on walks or while playing outside, you may want to wash it weekly. Even though dogs don’t sweat, hair and dander will start collecting on the inside of the coat, giving it a strong odor that you won’t appreciate.
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