The 11 Best Dog Coats, Jackets, and Sweaters for Winter, Worn by Our Dogs
Shop picks from Reddy, Ruffwear, Barefoot Dreams, and more
Shop picks from Reddy, Ruffwear, Barefoot Dreams, and more People:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/peo-po-blueberry-pet-wool-pullover-sweater-madison-yauger-03-1-3c11d38efd0649809f76a9f5ea9280ca.jpeg "dog on sidewalk wearing Blueberry Pet Wool Pullover Sweater and harness")
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
We brought our high testing standards home to see how our real dogs felt about 24 top-rated dog coats, jackets, and sweaters by looking at the level of comfort, overall design, quality, and value. As dog parents ourselves, we wanted to test real-life considerations, like how easy it is to get the outerwear on your dog. We also evaluated the fit, whether the material or fasteners bothered our dogs, and how well the design functioned with a harness or collar on actual walks.
Best Overall: Reddy Puffer Dog Vest
Petco
Star Qualities
Keeps dogs warm and dry
Durable with sturdy zipper
Machine-washable
Stylish quilted puffer design
Red Flags
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
Editors Say
"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 own puffer vests."—Madison Yauger, shopping editor
Best Overall, Runner-Up: Aofitee Dog Coat
Amazon
Star Qualities
Plush puffer-style quilting
Keeps dogs warm on coldest winter days
Doesn't restrict movement
Comfortable enough to sleep in
Red Flags
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
Editors Say
"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 Budget: ThinkPet Cold Weather Dog Coat
Amazon
Star Qualities
Wallet-friendly; a great value
Zipper opening for harness rings
Easy to get on and off even the squirmiest dogs
Red Flags
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 People
Related: The 12 Best Dog Beds, Tested by Our Dogs
Best Puffer: Gooby Padded Vest
Amazon
Star Qualities
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 Flags
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 Vest: Kurgo Loft Dog Jacket
Amazon
Star Qualities
Ripstop material stands up to chewing and tugging
Zippered opening for harness rings
Doesn't restrict movement
Easy-to-adjust velcro fasteners
Red Flags
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-Resistant: Ruffwear Vert Winter Dog Coat
Amazon
Star Qualities
Waterproof design keeps dogs dry in rain
Accurate sizing; no gaps or loose sections
Hidden fasteners to prevent snapping on fur
Red Flags
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.
Though it is a little pricey, and the jacket doesn't cover the dog's head or legs (there's no hood), it's super water-resistant and honestly looked adorable when worn by our dog. We would not recommend this for a day spent in the rain since your dog's head and legs will likely get drenched, but for a little walk in the rain, this jacket is perfect. On our rainy day walks, everywhere the jacket covered our dog was completely dry when we arrived home.
Sizes: XXS–XL | Material: Polyester | Style: Jacket | Colors: 2 | Water-Resistant: Yes
Best Sweater: Blueberry Pet Wool Blend Pullover Dog Sweater
Amazon
Star Qualities
Cable-knit with classic crewneck
Can be worn indoors or outside
Hole for harness or leash
Red Flags
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
Editors Say
“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 Fleece: Wagwear Fleece Zippy
Wagwear
Star Qualities
Softer and more malleable than other materials
Keeps dogs comfortable and warm
Numbered sizing offers more accurate fit
Red Flags
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 People
Best Fleece, Runner-Up: Vecomfy Fleece Lining Extra Warm Dog Hoodie
Amazon
Star Qualities
Warm lining keeps dogs cozy
Water-repellent shell
Hood snaps back
Easy to get on and off
Red Flags
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
Editors Say
"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 Cozy: Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Ribbed Pet Sweater
Amazon
Star Qualities
Fuzzy material is super soft and stretchy
Can be worn indoors
Expansive size range
Red Flags
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 (the celebrity-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 People
Editors Say
"My tiny chihuahua is always cold, 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 the human-equivalent sweater."—Erin Johnson, associate shopping director
Best for Small Dogs: Lesypet Puffer Jacket for Small Dogs
Amazon
Star Qualities
Cozy yet lightweight
Covers front legs without restricting movement
Very affordable
Red Flags
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
Editors Say
“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
Related: The 7 Best Pet Cameras, Tested by PEOPLE
Others We Tried
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.
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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 the Kurgo 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 the Wagwear Fleece Zippy.
Harness Attachment
Another consideration is whether your pet wears a dog harness when walking. A lot of dog jackets are designed with a slit behind the neck area for you to clip the leash to a harness underneath, like the ThinkPet Cold Weather Dog Coat. So, you might want to size up to ensure the jacket and harness fit well together and won’t limit mobility by being too tight.
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 the Canada Pooch Winter Dog Coat could 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
Keep in mind, some dogs have natural coats built in — and thick ones at that. Dogs with long, thick coats are bred for cold climates, and they don’t need dog jackets (nor will they want to wear them). A few examples might be Siberian Huskies, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Great Pyrenees, etc. Meanwhile, short-haired dogs like Labs, French Bulldogs, Beagles, and Pitbulls might greatly benefit from an extra layer of warmth in the winter. So keep your dog’s fur type in mind when choosing what kind of jacket you purchase. Long-haired dogs like Golden Retrievers might also get their fur stuck in certain zippers or velcro closures, so safety features like what the Gooby Padded Vest has in place could be useful.
How We Tested Dog Jackets
We put these dog jackets to the test, deferring to the only critics who matter here: our dogs.
- Material and Fit: Looking at the construction and design of each jacket, we considered if the fasteners were high quality (Velcro, snap, or other) and if the fabric seemed comfortable and durable. Then we put the jackets on our dogs, testing how easy (or difficult, in some cases) it was to dress our furry pals. We looked at the overall fit (too snug, too loose, or just right), whether our pups seemed comfortable (no signs of itching, chewing on the material, or other irritated behavior), and whether the fasteners felt secure when the dog wore the jacket.
- Walk Test: For good measure, we took the test to the streets, putting on our dogs’ normal collars or harnesses with the jackets on top, and then walking our dogs for at least 15 minutes. Our team considered how the jackets fit when the dog was moving (especially over a harness), and whether the fasteners stayed secure the whole time. We also looked at whether the jackets seemed to keep our dogs warm by looking for any signs of shivering if cold or panting if overheated. Another important factor is if a jacket limits mobility or gets in the way when the dog relieves itself.
- Water Resistance: Upon return home, we considered the ease of jacket removal, as well as the durability and water resistance of the material. Our team poured water over the jacket to see how the water reacted with the material (whether running off immediately or absorbing into the jacket). We repeated this whole process on at least six walks to get the full picture of each jacket’s functionality.
Frequently asked Questions
How should a dog coat or jacket fit?
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.
Do dog jackets help with anxiety?
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 can cause stress 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 a calming dog bed.
Should a harness go over or under a dog jacket?
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.
Why Trust PEOPLE?
Madison Yauger is 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 Holland is a contributing freelance writer who added the latest editor-tested insights to this story.
Our Expert Panel
Dr. Jamie Whittenburg, DVM is the veterinarian director at Senior Tail Waggers.
What Is People Tested?
We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
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