Guide to choosing the best warm dog jacket for cold weather

When the temperature drops, does your dog hesitate at the door, shiver on walks, or curl up as soon as you stop? These are all signs they might be feeling the cold more than you realize. Just like us, some dogs struggle to stay warm in colder conditions. A well-designed dog jacket can make all the difference, helping your dog stay comfortable and protected, whether you're taking a brisk morning walk, training in the cold or exploring snowy trails.

This guide will help you choose the best dog coat, ensuring your dog is prepared for every challenge, from light frost to extreme subzero temperatures.

Find the perfect jacket based on your dog’s needs, activity level, and weather conditions!

FIND YOUR JACKET QUIZ

Does my dog need a warm jacket?

How cold is too cold for my dog?

There is no set temperature limit, as it will depend on your dog’s breed, coat type, weight, health, and age. Individual preference also plays a role. Among two identical dogs, one might start getting cold at a certain temperature, while the other dog is doing just fine!

Some breeds, like Siberian Huskies and Malamutes, have a thick double coat that traps air for insulation and are born to live outside in cold temperatures. Many of these polar breeds actually prefer not to wear an extra layer, as it makes them too warm!

However, even cold-tolerant breeds benefit from wearing a warm jacket when resting and in the most extreme conditions. Dog mushers often use jackets to protect their dogs from wind and freezing temperatures when training or competing.

Some dogs will struggle to stay warm more quickly than others:

• Short-haired breeds (like Weimaraners or Rhodesian Ridgebacks): Lacking natural insulation, they lose heat quickly,
• Small dogs (like Chihuahuas): A higher surface area-to-body ratio and proximity to cold ground make it more difficult for them.
• Senior dogs and puppies: Body temperature regulation is harder for them.
• Lean dogs: Without body fat for insulation, they struggle to stay warm.
• Dogs with chronic diseases, poor blood circulation, or arthritis: cold weather can worsen stiffness and discomfort.

Working and active dogs exposed to wet and cold conditions for extended periods also benefit from a functional winter jacket. Using a jacket before and after training can also help with warm-up and cool-down on chilly days.

Signs your dog needs a warm coat

When they need extra warmth, dogs can’t communicate as we do. Watch for these clear signs that your dog may benefit from a warm dog jacket:

• Shivering or trembling in cold temperatures
• Lifting paws off the ground due to cold surfaces
• Hesitation to go outside or shortened walks
• Curling up tightly or seeking shelter instead of stretching out when resting

If your dog shows any of these signs, it is time to put on a jacket to keep them dry and insulated.

What makes a great warm jacket for dogs?

Not all dog jackets provide the same level of warmth, protection, and comfort. When selecting the best jacket, consider the following aspects.

Freedom of movement and the perfect fit

A well-fitted jacket should move naturally with your dog, without restricting their stride, jumping, or running.

• Full shoulder mobility: Essential for running at top speed, jumping, and playing without restriction. Look for ergonomic designs with pre-shaped panels that allow the jacket to move naturally with your dog’s stride.
• Snug, adjustable fit: Too tight, and it compresses the coat, reducing its insulating ability and restricting movement. Too loose, and it shifts, leading to chafing, discomfort, and even injuries over time. multiple adjustment points, typically at the neck, chest, waist, and tail, to provide a secure and custom fit for all body shapes.
• Leg straps: Keep the jacket secure in high winds and fast movement, preventing twisting or riding up. 

Weather protection and breathability

A winter dog jacket should offer proper resistance against strong, cold winds, snow, and light rain while allowing excess heat to escape.

As dogs generate significant body heat when running, biking, or skiing, even in colder weather, the jacket must feature high breathability capacities to prevent overheating.

Watch out for the waterproof rating. Measured in millimeters (mm), it indicates how much rain the fabric can resist before water starts seeping in. A 5,000mm rating is enough for light showers, while a 20,000mm+ rating handles heavy downpours and prolonged exposure to wet conditions.  

Insulation: finding the right level of warmth

How efficient a warm jacket is will highly depend on the quality and properties of its insulation type, here are three factors to consider:

• Moisture-resistant insulation: Opt for materials that retain warmth even when wet, such as wool or PrimaLoft® synthetic insulation, to keep your dog warm in damp conditions.
• Insulation weight: Measured in g/m² (synthetic) or gsm (wool), the higher the number, the greater the warmth - making it easier to match the jacket to your dog’s activity level and climate.
• Lightweight yet effective materials: Insulation should provide warmth without compressing your dog’s natural coat, ensuring their own fur continues to trap heat effectively.

Visibility = Safety first

Night time, fog, and snow fall reduce visibility. Not just for you, but for cars, skiers, and others on the trail. Reflective details are the ensure your dog remains visible from all angles in low-light conditions. Bright-colored coats also enhance visibility in autumn landscapes and snow.

Choosing the right winter jacket for your dog

At Non-stop dogwear, we design high-performance dog gear that protects from the elements without restricting movement. Each jacket is designed to answer the right needs, so all dogs can practice their favorite activity in all weather conditions.

Glacier jacket 2.0 – Lightweight, versatile protection

This functional winter jacket is designed for freedom of movement and protection against cold, wind, rain, and snow. The adjustable fit and ergonomic shape allows dogs to move naturally, while the PrimaLoft® Black Insulation Eco provides lightweight warmth.

• Insulation: PrimaLoft® Black Insulation Eco (100 g/m2 size 24-36, 133 g/m2 size 40-90)
• Water column: 10.000 mm
• Available sizes: 14
• Leg straps: Yes
• Reflective details: Yes

 

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Glacier wool jacket 2.0 – Maximum warmth with natural insulation

This jacket features a wool lining for exceptional warmth and breathability. Wool absorbs moisture without feeling wet and naturally regulates body temperature in varying conditions.

• Insulation: ECO insulation (80g/m2), Wool rich blend (200 gsm)
• Water column: 10.000 mm
• Available sizes: 14
• Leg straps: Yes
• Reflective details: Yes

 

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Glacier dog jacket WD – Built for working dogs

When the job doesn’t stop for cold weather, your dog needs a heavy-duty winter jacket that can withstand long hours in the cold, rough terrain, and extreme conditions. This reinforced version of the original Glacier jacket, is designed for K9 teams, search-and-rescue dogs, and other working dogs. The nylon shell and seams increase durability, while the silent, non-reflective fabric and camouflage color make it ideal for fieldwork, tracking, and missions that require discretion. Hook-and-loop fasteners on each shoulder allow for patches and unit markings.

• Insulation: PrimaLoft® Black Insulation Eco (133 g/m2)
• Water column: 10.000 mm
• Available sizes: 7
• Leg straps: Yes
• Reflective details: No

 

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Long-distance light jacket – Ultra-light performance 

Originally designed for mushing but suitable for various activities, the Long distance light jacket is perfect for high-intensity activities in cold weather and can be used over a pulling harness. Insulated with ultra-packable PrimaLoft® Silver insulation, it is featherlight on your dog, in your sled, or backpack. The powerful hook-and-loop fastener adjustments make it fast and easy to take on and off, even when your dog is wearing a harness. An optional windbreaker to protect male genitals is also available.

• Primaloft® Silver Insulation (60 g/m2)
• Water column: 8.000 mm
• Available sizes: 4
• Leg straps: No
• Reflective details: Yes

 

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Long distance+ jacket – Expedition warmth

The Long distance+ jacket, with the same design as the previous one, is the ultimate jacket for active dogs in extreme temperatures. It is used by professionals in the world's toughest sled dog races, performing in extreme temperatures reaching -50 Celsius/-58 Fahrenheit. The PrimaLoft® Black Insulation Hi-Loft is remarkably light yet warm and puffy, providing added insulation when your dog is resting.

• PrimaLoft® Black Insulation Hi-Loft (200 g/m2)
• Water column: 7.460 mm
• Available sizes: 4
• Leg straps: No
• Reflective details: Yes

 

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Fleece and Mid-layers

When it's too warm for a winter jacket but too cold to go without one, a mid-layer keeps your dog’s temperature stable. Perfect for dry weather, they provide warmth during walks, runs, and post-activity recovery. They’re also great for keeping your dog warm when back in the car, preventing a rapid drop in body temperature. In unpredictable conditions, a mid-layer can be worn under a waterproof dog raincoat for extra protection.

Wool dog jacket – The power of wool

Wool is one of nature’s most effective performance fibers: it provides outstanding warmth while also offering thermoregulation, breathability, and odor reduction. It absorbs moisture without feeling cold or wet, making it ideal for varying conditions. The Wool dog jacket combines all these natural benefits with reinforced on exposed areas for added durability.

• Lining: Woolmark® wool blend certified
• Available sizes: 11
• Leg straps: Yes

 

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Trekking fleece dog jacket – Soft jacket for rest and recovery

The Trekking fleece dog jacket offers just the right amount of warmth to keep your dog’s temperature stable in mild weather. The large fit covers your dog’s main muscle groups, aiding in post-exercise recovery while ensuring comfort and mobility.

• Lining: Fleece
• Available sizes: 11
• Leg straps: Yes

 

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How to clean and maintain your dog’s raincoat

With the right care, your dog’s jacket will stay weatherproof and adventure-ready for years. Regular cleaning and maintenance help preserve its performance in snow, mud, and rain.

Learn how to clean your dog’s jacket.

Learn how to care for and repair your dog’s jacket.

Conquer the cold

You are now fully ready to experience cold adventures together! Explore Non-stop dogwear’s collection and find the perfect fit for your unique needs.

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If you have questions or need fitting help, our experienced customer service team is always ready to help.