Not every dog needs a coat — but for short-haired breeds, sighthounds, elderly dogs, and pups who feel the cold, a good waterproof dog coat is essential for comfortable UK walks. We’ve compared the best options for 2026, from budget-friendly raincoats to premium winter warmers, plus a complete sizing guide.
Best Dog Coats Compared
| Model | Type | Waterproof? | Lining | Best For | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dryrobe Dog | All-weather premium | ✅ Wind + rain | Fleece | Active dogs, post-swim | £50–£70 |
| Equafleece Dog Suit | Moisture-wicking suit | ✅ Water-repellent | Fleece bodysuit | Mud, wet walks, drying | £40–£60 |
| Ancol Stormguard | Budget waterproof | ✅ Full waterproof | Fleece inner | Everyday walks | £15–£25 |
| Pointy Faces Whippet Coat | Sighthound-specific | ✅ Waterproof | Fleece-lined | Whippets, lurchers, greyhounds | £30–£50 |
| Non-Stop Dogwear Fjord | Technical outdoor | ✅ High-spec | Insulated + breathable | Hiking, field work | £55–£75 |
| Ruffwear Sun Shower | Lightweight rain | ✅ Rainproof | Unlined | Summer showers, short walks | £35–£50 |
Which Dogs Need a Coat?
| Dog Type | Need a Coat? | Recommended Type |
|---|---|---|
| Short-haired breeds (Staffie, Boxer, Vizsla) | ✅ Yes, in winter | Fleece-lined waterproof |
| Sighthounds (Whippet, Greyhound, Lurcher) | ✅ Yes, essential | Sighthound-specific fitted coat |
| Small breeds (Chihuahua, Dachshund) | ✅ Yes, most of the year | Insulated waterproof, chest coverage |
| Elderly or unwell dogs | ✅ Yes | Warm fleece + waterproof outer |
| Puppies under 6 months | ⚠️ Short walks only | Lightweight insulated |
| Double-coated breeds (Husky, Border Collie) | ❌ Usually not needed | Only in prolonged heavy rain |
How to Measure Your Dog for a Coat
Getting the right size is the single biggest factor in whether your dog will tolerate wearing a coat. Measure these three points:
- Back length: Base of neck (where collar sits) to base of tail — this is the key measurement
- Chest girth: Widest part of the ribcage, measured around the body
- Neck circumference: Around the neck where the collar sits
Sighthound tip: Standard coats rarely fit sighthounds. Their deep chests and narrow waists require specialist designs. Brands like Pointy Faces, The Smart Dog Company, and Winston James Woof specialise in sighthound-specific sizing.
Our Top Pick: Dryrobe Dog
The Dryrobe Dog is our top overall pick for 2026. Its waterproof and wind-resistant outer shell, combined with a warm fleece lining, makes it ideal for UK conditions. It also works brilliantly as a post-swim drying coat. The adjustable waist and chest straps ensure a secure fit across most body types, and the high-visibility panel is a bonus for dark winter walks.
Best Budget: Ancol Stormguard
At under £25, the Ancol Stormguard offers genuine waterproofing with a soft fleece inner — remarkable value. It includes a chest cover for splash protection and a zip opening for harness access. The only downside is limited size options for very small or very large breeds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dogs really need coats in the UK?
Short-haired breeds, sighthounds, small dogs, and elderly dogs benefit significantly from a coat in cold or wet weather. Double-coated breeds (Huskies, Collies) generally don’t need one unless in prolonged heavy rain.
What size dog coat do I need?
Measure your dog’s back length (base of neck to base of tail) and chest girth (widest part of ribcage). Most brands provide size charts based on these measurements. When in doubt, size up — a slightly loose coat is better than a tight one.
Are Dryrobe coats worth the price?
Yes, if you have an active dog that swims, walks in rain, or needs post-exercise drying. The Dryrobe’s dual function as both weather coat and drying robe provides better value than buying separate items.
What is the best coat for a Whippet?
A sighthound-specific coat from brands like Pointy Faces, The Smart Dog Company, or Winston James Woof. Standard dog coats don’t fit sighthound body shapes — they need a deeper chest panel and narrower waist.