The 11 Best Dog Coats, Jackets, and Sweaters for Winter, Worn by Our Dogs

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsOthers We TriedAdd to CartThings to ConsiderHow We TestedFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is People Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

Others We Tried

Add to Cart

Things to Consider

How We Tested

FAQ

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is People Tested?

Photo:People

People

Dog coats, jackets, and sweaters are not only a fashionable accessory for your furry friend, they can also be practical winter outerwear for certain dogs (more on that below).

Experts Say"You should ensure that the jacket is made from soft, breathable material and that it fits your dog appropriately so that it does not rub, chafe, or restrict the dog’s movement."—Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM, Veterinarian director at Senior Tail Waggers

Experts Say

“You should ensure that the jacket is made from soft, breathable material and that it fits your dog appropriately so that it does not rub, chafe, or restrict the dog’s movement."—Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM, Veterinarian director at Senior Tail Waggers

Best Overall:Reddy Puffer Dog Vest at Amazon$40Jump to Review

Best Overall:Reddy Puffer Dog Vest at Amazon$40

Best Overall:

Best Overall, Runner-Up:Aofitee Dog Coat at Amazon$33Jump to Review

Best Overall, Runner-Up:Aofitee Dog Coat at Amazon$33

Best Overall, Runner-Up:

Best Budget:ThinkPet Cold Weather Dog Coat at Amazon$16Jump to Review

Best Budget:ThinkPet Cold Weather Dog Coat at Amazon$16

Best Budget:

Best Puffer:

Best Vest:SALEKurgo Loft Dog Jacket at Amazon$40$26Jump to Review

Best Vest:SALEKurgo Loft Dog Jacket at Amazon$40$26

Best Vest:

SALE

Best Water-Resistant:Ruffwear Vert Winter Dog Coat at Amazon$100Jump to Review

Best Water-Resistant:Ruffwear Vert Winter Dog Coat at Amazon$100

Best Water-Resistant:

Best Sweater:Blueberry Pet Wool Dog Sweater at Amazon$17Jump to Review

Best Sweater:Blueberry Pet Wool Dog Sweater at Amazon$17

Best Sweater:

Best Fleece:Wagwear Fleece Zippy at Wagwear.comJump to Review

Best Fleece:Wagwear Fleece Zippy at Wagwear.com

Best Fleece:

Best Fleece, Runner-Up:Vecomfy Fleece Dog Hoodie at Amazon$28Jump to Review

Best Fleece, Runner-Up:Vecomfy Fleece Dog Hoodie at Amazon$28

Best Fleece, Runner-Up:

Best Cozy:Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Ribbed Pet Sweater at Amazon$44Jump to Review

Best Cozy:Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Ribbed Pet Sweater at Amazon$44

Best Cozy:

Best OverallReddy Puffer Dog VestPHOTO: Petco$40 at Amazon$40$20 at PETCO

Best OverallReddy Puffer Dog Vest

Best Overall

Reddy Puffer Dog Vest

PHOTO: Petco

$40 at Amazon$40$20 at PETCO

Star QualitiesKeeps dogs warm and dryDurable with sturdy zipperMachine-washableStylish quilted puffer designRed FlagsWe couldn’t find any!

Star QualitiesKeeps dogs warm and dryDurable with sturdy zipperMachine-washableStylish quilted puffer design

Keeps dogs warm and dry

Durable with sturdy zipper

Machine-washable

Stylish quilted puffer design

Red FlagsWe couldn’t find any!

We couldn’t find any!

Our top choice is the Reddy Puffer Vest. Available in seven sizes, this dog jacket will work for many breeds. It has a water-resistant shell to keep rain and light snow off your pup, while the warm lining offers cozy insulation on extra-chilly days.

We found this vest-style coat extremely durable, with reinforced seams and a reliable zipper. During our tests, we put the jacket on over the dog’s harness, and it stayed securely zipped during long walks and rough play. It’s also a cinch to clean — just toss it in the wash and let it air-dry.

All things considered, the price is more than reasonable for such a high-quality, warm, and, dare we say, stylish dog jacket.

Sizes:XS–3X |Material:Polyester |Style:Vest |Colors:Blue, Red, Black, and Green |Water-Resistant:Yes

PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People

“My dog has had two of these vests — black and orange — and both were extremely durable and stylish for winter. Plus, it’s easy to throw in the wash, and the design is as chic as many of my ownpuffer vests."—Madison Yauger, shopping editor

Best Overall, Runner-UpAofitee Dog CoatPHOTO: Amazon$33$32 at Amazon

Best Overall, Runner-UpAofitee Dog Coat

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Aofitee Dog Coat

PHOTO: Amazon

$33$32 at Amazon

Star QualitiesPlush puffer-style quiltingKeeps dogs warm on coldest winter daysDoesn’t restrict movementComfortable enough to sleep inRed FlagsSome dogs may not like the leg coveringsOnly meant for small dogs

Star QualitiesPlush puffer-style quiltingKeeps dogs warm on coldest winter daysDoesn’t restrict movementComfortable enough to sleep in

Plush puffer-style quilting

Keeps dogs warm on coldest winter days

Doesn’t restrict movement

Comfortable enough to sleep in

Red FlagsSome dogs may not like the leg coveringsOnly meant for small dogs

Some dogs may not like the leg coverings

Only meant for small dogs

We also like the Aofitee Dog Coat which has a water-resistant, wind-protective shell and poly-fill insulation. Reminiscent of a plush sleeping bag, this cozy puffer jacket keeps pets toasty on the coldest winter days. It’s so comfy, in fact, that our tester’s dog often curled up and went to sleep while wearing it.

Bear in mind this coat is meant for small dogs — even the largest size can only fit pets up to about 20 pounds. Also, while some pups may not like the leg coverings, our tester’s dog was still able to run around and play while wearing it. We think the price is right on point for this dog jacket and appreciate that there are eight colors available, ranging from metallics to bright, punchy hues.

Sizes:S–2X |Material:Polyester |Style:Puffer |Colors:8 |Water-Resistant:Yes

“My dog loves this jacket so much, she wants to lay down and sleep in it because it’s so cozy… I joke that she’s in her Missy Misdemeanor era when she’s wearing it."—Shalwah Evans, senior shopping editor

Best BudgetThinkPet Cold Weather Dog CoatPHOTO: Amazon$16 at AmazonView on Thinkpet.comView on Temu.comStar QualitiesWallet-friendly; a great valueZipper opening for harness ringsEasy to get on and off even the squirmiest dogsRed FlagsSizing may not account for fluffy coatWe loved the design of this dog coat and so did our canines. It has velcro around the neck and under the belly for security, plus a functional two-way zippered opening for a harness clip. Plus, the soft fleece interior and smooth polyester exterior are reversible. In terms of fit, our tester’s dog is a fluffy boy, and as such, the jacket was a bit tight around his torso. That said, the arm and neck holes were quite spacious.The dog often tries to shake jackets off, but this one held him securely with large, strong velcro sections. (Just be sure to check that longer fur doesn’t get caught in the velcro when fitting the jacket on your dog.) We loved the fleece interior and how easily the jacket works with a harness underneath.Sizes:XS–3XL |Material:Quilted fleece and polyester |Style:Sleeveless jacket |Colors:12 |Water-Resistant:YesPeople

Best BudgetThinkPet Cold Weather Dog CoatPHOTO: Amazon$16 at AmazonView on Thinkpet.comView on Temu.com

Best BudgetThinkPet Cold Weather Dog Coat

Best Budget

ThinkPet Cold Weather Dog Coat

$16 at AmazonView on Thinkpet.comView on Temu.com

Star QualitiesWallet-friendly; a great valueZipper opening for harness ringsEasy to get on and off even the squirmiest dogsRed FlagsSizing may not account for fluffy coat

Star QualitiesWallet-friendly; a great valueZipper opening for harness ringsEasy to get on and off even the squirmiest dogs

Wallet-friendly; a great value

Zipper opening for harness rings

Easy to get on and off even the squirmiest dogs

Red FlagsSizing may not account for fluffy coat

Sizing may not account for fluffy coat

We loved the design of this dog coat and so did our canines. It has velcro around the neck and under the belly for security, plus a functional two-way zippered opening for a harness clip. Plus, the soft fleece interior and smooth polyester exterior are reversible. In terms of fit, our tester’s dog is a fluffy boy, and as such, the jacket was a bit tight around his torso. That said, the arm and neck holes were quite spacious.

The dog often tries to shake jackets off, but this one held him securely with large, strong velcro sections. (Just be sure to check that longer fur doesn’t get caught in the velcro when fitting the jacket on your dog.) We loved the fleece interior and how easily the jacket works with a harness underneath.

Sizes:XS–3XL |Material:Quilted fleece and polyester |Style:Sleeveless jacket |Colors:12 |Water-Resistant:Yes

Best Puffer

$35 at Amazon$32 at WalmartView on Baxterboo.com

Star QualitiesStep-in design good for older or squirmier dogsCan be used in place of harnessSafety lining prevents fur from catching in zipperRed FlagsVoluminous design may take getting used to

Star QualitiesStep-in design good for older or squirmier dogsCan be used in place of harnessSafety lining prevents fur from catching in zipper

Step-in design good for older or squirmier dogs

Can be used in place of harness

Safety lining prevents fur from catching in zipper

Red FlagsVoluminous design may take getting used to

Voluminous design may take getting used to

If you’re looking for a level of puff that will keep your dog warm in the coldest climates, this padded vest ought to do the trick. It’s so puffy, it actually interfered slightly with our dog’s natural gait; though after a few walks with it, this wasn’t an issue. It’s easy to put on your dog, thanks to the unique back-closure design. You just let them step into it (almost like a harness) and then zip it behind their back. And there’s a safety flap to prevent any fur from getting caught in the zipper — a huge bonus for long-haired breeds.

The biggest benefit of this padded vest is you can replace your dog’s harness with it during cold months because it comes with two D rings to clip the leash to. And for added warmth, there’s a soft fleece lining that will keep your puppy’s belly and entire torso cozy. The outside is a durable and waterproof nylon that successfully repelled water in our test. Since it’s so easy to put on and doubles as a harness, this puffer vest is a huge timesaver before heading out on a walk.

Sizes:XS–XL |Material:Fleece lining, nylon exterior |Style:Padded vest |Colors:12 |Water-Resistant:Yes

Best VestKurgo Loft Dog JacketPHOTO: Amazon$40$26 at Amazon$36 at ChewyView on Kurgo.comStar QualitiesRipstop material stands up to chewing and tuggingZippered opening for harness ringsDoesn’t restrict movementEasy-to-adjust velcro fastenersRed FlagsNeck hole isn’t adjustableA vest is an apparel staple for your pet — it provides an extra layer of warmth on days you’d rather be inside (having spent many a cold morning at the dog park, we know this feeling well). It’s made with water-resistant ripstop material, so it’s great for walks in the rain and snow. There’s also a zippered opening for harness rings, so you can attach it to a jacket on extra-cold days. For the most part, we loved the fit of the Kurgo Loft Jacket and noted that it didn’t restrict movement. It uses velcro fasteners, so it’s easy to adjust where needed. The only exception is the neck hole, which doesn’t have much give, so you should be extra mindful when ordering the size.Our dog who tested this vest (a 10-lb. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, for size reference) seemed to like wearing it. She didn’t show any signs of irritation like trying to gnaw, pull, or scratch it. It’s also super easy to put on your dog, and the plush filling provides warmth but isn’t so bulky as to get in the way of their movement when walking or playing outside.Throughout testing this vest, it’s been washed several times via laundry machines and has held up without loose strings, fading color, or other issues. It’s also shown durability on many walks and dog playdates. Considering the price and fun color options, we think this is a great everyday dog jacket.Sizes:XS–L |Material:Ripstop material |Style:Outdoor vest |Colors:8 |Water-Resistant:Yes

Best VestKurgo Loft Dog JacketPHOTO: Amazon$40$26 at Amazon$36 at ChewyView on Kurgo.com

Best VestKurgo Loft Dog Jacket

Best Vest

Kurgo Loft Dog Jacket

$40$26 at Amazon$36 at ChewyView on Kurgo.com

Star QualitiesRipstop material stands up to chewing and tuggingZippered opening for harness ringsDoesn’t restrict movementEasy-to-adjust velcro fastenersRed FlagsNeck hole isn’t adjustable

Star QualitiesRipstop material stands up to chewing and tuggingZippered opening for harness ringsDoesn’t restrict movementEasy-to-adjust velcro fasteners

Ripstop material stands up to chewing and tugging

Zippered opening for harness rings

Easy-to-adjust velcro fasteners

Red FlagsNeck hole isn’t adjustable

Neck hole isn’t adjustable

A vest is an apparel staple for your pet — it provides an extra layer of warmth on days you’d rather be inside (having spent many a cold morning at the dog park, we know this feeling well). It’s made with water-resistant ripstop material, so it’s great for walks in the rain and snow. There’s also a zippered opening for harness rings, so you can attach it to a jacket on extra-cold days. For the most part, we loved the fit of the Kurgo Loft Jacket and noted that it didn’t restrict movement. It uses velcro fasteners, so it’s easy to adjust where needed. The only exception is the neck hole, which doesn’t have much give, so you should be extra mindful when ordering the size.

Our dog who tested this vest (a 10-lb. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, for size reference) seemed to like wearing it. She didn’t show any signs of irritation like trying to gnaw, pull, or scratch it. It’s also super easy to put on your dog, and the plush filling provides warmth but isn’t so bulky as to get in the way of their movement when walking or playing outside.

Throughout testing this vest, it’s been washed several times via laundry machines and has held up without loose strings, fading color, or other issues. It’s also shown durability on many walks and dog playdates. Considering the price and fun color options, we think this is a great everyday dog jacket.

Sizes:XS–L |Material:Ripstop material |Style:Outdoor vest |Colors:8 |Water-Resistant:Yes

Best Water-ResistantRuffwear Vert Winter Dog CoatPHOTO: Amazon$100 at Amazon$100 at REIView on Ruffwear.com

Best Water-ResistantRuffwear Vert Winter Dog Coat

Best Water-Resistant

Ruffwear Vert Winter Dog Coat

$100 at Amazon$100 at REIView on Ruffwear.com

Star QualitiesWaterproof design keeps dogs dry in rainAccurate sizing; no gaps or loose sectionsHidden fasteners to prevent snapping on furRed FlagsNo hood or leg coverage

Star QualitiesWaterproof design keeps dogs dry in rainAccurate sizing; no gaps or loose sectionsHidden fasteners to prevent snapping on fur

Waterproof design keeps dogs dry in rain

Accurate sizing; no gaps or loose sections

Hidden fasteners to prevent snapping on fur

Red FlagsNo hood or leg coverage

No hood or leg coverage

We were surprised when our puppy, who avidly chews on bandanas, made no fuss about this dog jacket. It fit him beautifully (we used the size guide online to select one that would fit). Its thoughtful design includes fastener buckles underneath flaps to keep them hidden. These also reduce the chance of getting our puppy’s fur stuck in the buckles. Plus, there’s a harness slit so you can clip a leash through the back of the jacket for easy access and elastic leg loops to keep it in place.

Sizes:XXS–XL |Material:Polyester |Style:Jacket |Colors:2 |Water-Resistant:Yes

Best SweaterBlueberry Pet Wool Dog SweaterPHOTO: Amazon$17 at Amazon

Best SweaterBlueberry Pet Wool Dog Sweater

Best Sweater

Blueberry Pet Wool Dog Sweater

$17 at Amazon

Star QualitiesCable-knit with classic crewneckCan be worn indoors or outsideHole for harness or leashRed FlagsNot water-resistant

Star QualitiesCable-knit with classic crewneckCan be worn indoors or outsideHole for harness or leash

Cable-knit with classic crewneck

Can be worn indoors or outside

Hole for harness or leash

Red FlagsNot water-resistant

Not water-resistant

If you have a sweater in mind, we highly recommend the Wool Blend Pullover from Blueberry Pet. As the name suggests, it’s woven from a blend of wool and acrylic and features a chunky cable-knit weave and a classic crew neckline that’ll always be in style for fall and winter — in both the human and pet fashion worlds.

We’ve found that dogs enjoy wearing pieces like this. Though it’s not water-resistant, this sweater is a stellar option for cold, dry days. It can be worn indoors, too — don’t be surprised if your pet curls up and goes to sleep in it. We also like that the sweater has a hole for attaching a leash or harness without taking it off, plus it’s machine-washable.

With seven sizes available, four color options, and a very reasonable price tag, you really can’t go wrong.

Sizes:10–22 inches |Material:Wool-acrylic blend |Style:Pullover sweater |Colors:7 |Water-Resistant:No

PHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: PeoplePHOTO: People

“My dog practically lives in a nearly identical sweater to this one  — while hers has been discontinued, it shares the same soft wool material, cable knit pattern, and simple step-in design. She falls asleep in it frequently.”—Madison Yauger

Best FleeceWagwear Fleece ZippyPHOTO: WagwearView on Wagwear.comStar QualitiesSofter and more malleable than other materialsKeeps dogs comfortable and warmNumbered sizing offers more accurate fitRed FlagsZipper may catch at firstNot water-resistant; seems to absorb waterIf your pup could use a fuzzy fleece to get them through the season, this piece from Wagwear is a stylish and easy-to-wear option. It’s super specific with measurements rather than generalized sizing, so it’s made to fit your dog perfectly. It’s not too loose or too snug, and since this tester’s dog, a Goldendoodle who doesn’t like wearing jackets, seemed to be fine wearing this one, we’ll count that as a big win.The design is easy to get on and off your dog. Our only word of caution is that the zipper is tough to get started. In regards to mobility, this jacket didn’t restrict movement on our walks at all. And being fleece, it’s not surprising that it absorbed water during our test rather than repelling it. But for an everyday winter jacket (rainy days aside), this isn’t a huge dealbreaker. It was a little pricey, but it has a really fun design, and it even has a side pocket for spare treats, baggies, or whatever else you might want to carry with you on your walks.Sizes:8–24 inches |Material:Fleece |Style:Zippered fleece |Colors:3 |Water-Resistant:NoPeople

Best FleeceWagwear Fleece ZippyPHOTO: WagwearView on Wagwear.com

Best FleeceWagwear Fleece Zippy

Best Fleece

Wagwear Fleece Zippy

PHOTO: Wagwear

View on Wagwear.com

Star QualitiesSofter and more malleable than other materialsKeeps dogs comfortable and warmNumbered sizing offers more accurate fitRed FlagsZipper may catch at firstNot water-resistant; seems to absorb water

Star QualitiesSofter and more malleable than other materialsKeeps dogs comfortable and warmNumbered sizing offers more accurate fit

Softer and more malleable than other materials

Keeps dogs comfortable and warm

Numbered sizing offers more accurate fit

Red FlagsZipper may catch at firstNot water-resistant; seems to absorb water

Zipper may catch at first

Not water-resistant; seems to absorb water

If your pup could use a fuzzy fleece to get them through the season, this piece from Wagwear is a stylish and easy-to-wear option. It’s super specific with measurements rather than generalized sizing, so it’s made to fit your dog perfectly. It’s not too loose or too snug, and since this tester’s dog, a Goldendoodle who doesn’t like wearing jackets, seemed to be fine wearing this one, we’ll count that as a big win.

The design is easy to get on and off your dog. Our only word of caution is that the zipper is tough to get started. In regards to mobility, this jacket didn’t restrict movement on our walks at all. And being fleece, it’s not surprising that it absorbed water during our test rather than repelling it. But for an everyday winter jacket (rainy days aside), this isn’t a huge dealbreaker. It was a little pricey, but it has a really fun design, and it even has a side pocket for spare treats, baggies, or whatever else you might want to carry with you on your walks.

Sizes:8–24 inches |Material:Fleece |Style:Zippered fleece |Colors:3 |Water-Resistant:No

Best Fleece, Runner-UpVecomfy Fleece Dog HoodiePHOTO: Amazon$28 at Amazon$17 at WalmartView on Sears.com

Best Fleece, Runner-UpVecomfy Fleece Dog Hoodie

Best Fleece, Runner-Up

Vecomfy Fleece Dog Hoodie

$28 at Amazon$17 at WalmartView on Sears.com

Star QualitiesWarm lining keeps dogs cozyWater-repellent shellHood snaps backEasy to get on and offRed FlagsRuns slightly small, consider sizing up

Star QualitiesWarm lining keeps dogs cozyWater-repellent shellHood snaps backEasy to get on and off

Warm lining keeps dogs cozy

Water-repellent shell

Hood snaps back

Easy to get on and off

Red FlagsRuns slightly small, consider sizing up

Runs slightly small, consider sizing up

We also like the Vecomfy Dog Hoodie. This coat has a water-repellent exterior, so snowflakes and raindrops roll right off. The lining is a soft fleece that keeps pets warm on the chilliest winter days.

The attached hood can be used to keep your pup’s ears and head warm in more extreme weather conditions. But we mostly just snapped it back to the body of the jacket to keep it out of the way. We liked how easy it was to get this dog coat on and off, thanks to the elastic armholes and snap closure under the belly. Our tester dog never seemed uncomfortable wearing it.

For under $30, we think this comfy, warm, fleece-lined dog jacket is a total steel.

Sizes:XS–3X |Material:Polyester |Style:Hoodie |Colors:9 |Water-Resistant:Yes

“It’s easy to get on and off with elastic armholes and snaps that close under [my dog’s] belly — no zippers, buckles, or other mechanisms that can pinch or rub."—Nicola Fumo, senior shopping editor

Best CozyBarefoot Dreams CozyChic Ribbed Pet SweaterPHOTO: Amazon$44 at Amazon$39 at QVCView on Barefootdreams.com

Best CozyBarefoot Dreams CozyChic Ribbed Pet Sweater

Best Cozy

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Ribbed Pet Sweater

$44 at Amazon$39 at QVCView on Barefootdreams.com

Star QualitiesFuzzy material is super soft and stretchyCan be worn indoorsExpansive size rangeRed FlagsNot weather-resistant

Star QualitiesFuzzy material is super soft and stretchyCan be worn indoorsExpansive size range

Fuzzy material is super soft and stretchy

Can be worn indoors

Expansive size range

Red FlagsNot weather-resistant

Not weather-resistant

If you live in a cold, mostly dry climate or want something for your dog to wear indoors, go with the CozyChic Ribbed Pet Sweater from Barefoot Dreams (thecelebrity-loved blanket brand). Our tester’s tiny chihuahua loved it so much, as it allowed her to move freely and stay warm without having to burrow under blankets.

The fuzzy ribbed material is soft and stretchy with an incredibly luxurious feel. This versatile dog sweater comes in five sizes, and the biggest can fit pets ranging from 6 to 65 pounds. Though it’s not weather-resistant, the quality and coziness are undeniable. We think the price is fair and wouldn’t hesitate to buy a matching shrug for ourselves.

Sizes:XS–3X |Material:Polyester microfiber |Style:Sweater |Colors:5 |Water-Resistant:No

“My tiny chihuahua isalwayscold, so you can usually find her burrowed under three or more blankets. She loves this cozy sweater so much because it feels like a tightly wrapped blanket. I wish I had thehuman-equivalent sweater."—Erin Johnson, associate shopping director

Best for Small DogsLesypet Puffer Jacket for Small DogsPHOTO: Amazon$20$16 at Amazon

Best for Small DogsLesypet Puffer Jacket for Small Dogs

Best for Small Dogs

Lesypet Puffer Jacket for Small Dogs

$20$16 at Amazon

Star QualitiesCozy yet lightweightCovers front legs without restricting movementVery affordableRed FlagsNot for dogs over 13 poundsNot all dogs like the hood

Star QualitiesCozy yet lightweightCovers front legs without restricting movementVery affordable

Cozy yet lightweight

Covers front legs without restricting movement

Very affordable

Red FlagsNot for dogs over 13 poundsNot all dogs like the hood

Not for dogs over 13 pounds

Not all dogs like the hood

The best option for small dogs is the Lesypet Puffer Jacket. Puffer coats like this one tend to be cozy yet lightweight, plus there’s added coverage over the front legs that doesn’t restrict movement. The snap closure stays securely fastened on walks, and there’s a little metal hook to attach a leash.

Just a heads up, this coat is available in five sizes, but even the largest one is only meant for dogs up to 15 pounds. It has a hood, which some dogs may not like wearing, but you can snap it back to prevent it from riding up over your pet’s head. This coat is among the most affordable we tested. If it’s a fit for your mini breed, it’s absolutely worth buying.

Sizes:S–2X |Material:Polyester, cotton |Style:Puffer |Colors:Pink, gray |Water-Resistant:Yes

“I bought my tiny dog a puffer vest with a fur hood from Target last year, and she loves it. That exact style is sold out, but it’s similar to this puffer jacket from Amazon. She’s been through many puffer jackets through the years, and I think she prefers the style because it’s so lightweight but still keeps her cozy while walking.”—Erin Johnson

Little Beast Super Duper Reversible Parka Vest:This coat kept our typically picky tester dog comfortable without restricting movement. Though it’s on the pricier side, it’s super easy to clean and clearly high-quality. However, it’s been discontinued so we can no longer recommend this product.

Ultra Paws Durable Dog Boots$34 at Amazon$35 at Dick’sView on Publiclands.com

Ultra Paws Durable Dog Boots

$34 at Amazon$35 at Dick’sView on Publiclands.com

Floof Smart Skin Spray$28 at AmazonView on Ourfloof.com

Floof Smart Skin Spray

$28 at AmazonView on Ourfloof.com

$29 at Amazon$29 at Walmart$24 at Chewy

Yeti Boomer 8 Dog Bowl$50 at AmazonView on Yeti.comView on Publiclands.com

Yeti Boomer 8 Dog Bowl

$50 at AmazonView on Yeti.comView on Publiclands.com

What to Know About Dog Jackets

Sizing

Buying apparel for a dog means considering the shape and size of their body and how active they are. Some dog jackets use standard sizes like XS–XL, which is fine if you use the size guides to determine where your dog fits in that range. The only issue with standard sizing is parts of the clothing might fit better than others — as our dog encountered with the neck hole on theKurgo Loft Jacket. With numeral sizing, you can get a little more precise with measurements and find a better fit, as we found with the excellent fit of theWagwear Fleece Zippy.

Harness Attachment

Material

The material of a dog jacket determines its durability (during playtime, walks, and daily activity), its resistance to rain, and how easily it can be cleaned — all factors that will contribute to longevity. Not to mention, certain fabrics can cause irritation and itchiness and should be avoided for your dog. “If a dog is to wear clothing, I prefer soft cotton fleece that has some stretch to it,” says Dr. Whittenburg. “This fabric is breathable, soft, and allows for more natural movement.” That said, fleece is a super warm material, so it might cause some long-haired dogs to run too hot when wearing it.

“The only exception to [my suggestion of fleece] would be situations where the dog may get wet, and a waterproof material might be more appropriate,” she adds. Most dog jackets are made from a version of polyester or nylon, both water-resistant materials that are easily washed. And just like for humans, cotton is also a comfortable option for your canine, so theCanada Pooch Winter Dog Coatcould be a good choice. And when it comes to fasteners, Dr. Whittenburg says velcro is “easier and quicker to secure than buckles” and can be especially “helpful, as dogs tend to be squirmy.”

“The only exception to [my suggestion of fleece] would be situations where the dog may get wet, and a waterproof material might be more appropriate,” she adds. Most dog jackets are made from a version of polyester or nylon, both water-resistant materials that are easily washed. And when it comes to fasteners, Dr. Whittenburg says velcro is “easier and quicker to secure than buckles” and can be especially “helpful, as dogs tend to be squirmy.”

Fur Type

How We Tested Dog Jackets

We put these dog jackets to the test, deferring to the only critics who matter here: our dogs.

Frequently Asked QuestionsWith any type of dog apparel, you want to make sure it doesn’t cut under their legs and restrict movement. It’s also important that it’s comfortable to wear, otherwise, your dog might resort to chewing or gnawing on it. The best way to ensure a good fit is to take your dog’s measurements and then use the sizing guide for that specific jacket to find the right size.Light compression, similar to the sensation of a hug, is a known calming solution for anxious dogs, which is why you see things like thunder jackets and other vests and apparel designed to help with anxiety. “Some dogs very much enjoy wearing clothes and may absolutely feel comfort when wearing a jacket,” says Dr. Whittenburg. “This is very individual to the particular dog, however.”Since dogs can’t verbally tell us if something is uncomfortable, Dr. Whittenburg says to look for behavioral signs of discomfort. “Some dogs do not care for wearing clothes and forcing them to do so cancausestress and anxiety,” she says. “Dogs wearing jackets should also be monitored at all times to avoid overheating. Dogs cannot sweat and may overheat more easily than humans.” She also recommends speaking to your veterinarian first if your dog has anxiety because “there are many remedies that will likely be more effective,” such as acalming dog bed.In almost all cases, the harness should go underneath a dog jacket. This is why many jackets have a small opening to feed the harness loops through it so you can connect the leash for walks.

Frequently Asked Questions

With any type of dog apparel, you want to make sure it doesn’t cut under their legs and restrict movement. It’s also important that it’s comfortable to wear, otherwise, your dog might resort to chewing or gnawing on it. The best way to ensure a good fit is to take your dog’s measurements and then use the sizing guide for that specific jacket to find the right size.

Light compression, similar to the sensation of a hug, is a known calming solution for anxious dogs, which is why you see things like thunder jackets and other vests and apparel designed to help with anxiety. “Some dogs very much enjoy wearing clothes and may absolutely feel comfort when wearing a jacket,” says Dr. Whittenburg. “This is very individual to the particular dog, however.”Since dogs can’t verbally tell us if something is uncomfortable, Dr. Whittenburg says to look for behavioral signs of discomfort. “Some dogs do not care for wearing clothes and forcing them to do so cancausestress and anxiety,” she says. “Dogs wearing jackets should also be monitored at all times to avoid overheating. Dogs cannot sweat and may overheat more easily than humans.” She also recommends speaking to your veterinarian first if your dog has anxiety because “there are many remedies that will likely be more effective,” such as acalming dog bed.

Light compression, similar to the sensation of a hug, is a known calming solution for anxious dogs, which is why you see things like thunder jackets and other vests and apparel designed to help with anxiety. “Some dogs very much enjoy wearing clothes and may absolutely feel comfort when wearing a jacket,” says Dr. Whittenburg. “This is very individual to the particular dog, however.”

Since dogs can’t verbally tell us if something is uncomfortable, Dr. Whittenburg says to look for behavioral signs of discomfort. “Some dogs do not care for wearing clothes and forcing them to do so cancausestress and anxiety,” she says. “Dogs wearing jackets should also be monitored at all times to avoid overheating. Dogs cannot sweat and may overheat more easily than humans.” She also recommends speaking to your veterinarian first if your dog has anxiety because “there are many remedies that will likely be more effective,” such as acalming dog bed.

In almost all cases, the harness should go underneath a dog jacket. This is why many jackets have a small opening to feed the harness loops through it so you can connect the leash for walks.

Madison Yaugeris a senior writer for PEOPLE who’s tested hundreds of lifestyle products across all categories. With a background in news and lifestyle journalism, she has a wide network of expert sources. She’s previously covered many different pet topics, including training and behavior. For this story, she spoke to the veterinarian director at Senior Tail Waggers, Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM, in addition to heavily researching the market of dog jackets and consulting our PEOPLE Tested insights, as well as her own golden retriever, Stevie, who has high standards for all dog-related goods.

Theresa Hollandis a contributing freelance writer who added the latest editor-tested insights to this story.

Our Expert PanelDr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM is the veterinarian director at Senior Tail Waggers.

Our Expert Panel

Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM is the veterinarian director at Senior Tail Waggers.

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source: people.com