Choosing the Right Dog Jacket: A Comprehensive Guide
Selecting the ideal dog jacket is crucial for ensuring your dog’s comfort in varying weather conditions. With numerous options available, this guide will help you find the perfect jacket tailored to your dog’s needs.
Does My Dog Need a Jacket?
When determining whether your dog requires a jacket, consider their breed, coat type, weight, health, and age. Some breeds, like Siberian Huskies and Malamutes, boast thick double coats that naturally protect them from cold temperatures, allowing them to thrive in harsh winter conditions. In contrast, short-haired breeds such as Weimaraners and Rhodesian Ridgebacks are more susceptible to the cold. Interestingly, many thick-coated breeds may prefer to go without an extra layer, as it can make them feel overheated. However, during extreme weather or when resting, even polar breeds can benefit from a warm jacket. Dog mushers often utilize jackets to safeguard their dogs from wind and freezing temperatures during training and competitions.
Dog jackets serve more than just a fashion statement; a well-designed jacket keeps your dog happy and comfortable, enabling you to enjoy outdoor activities regardless of the weather. For instance, a furry dog might need a rain jacket to keep their coat dry, preventing it from becoming heavy and muddy. Additionally, some dogs may require jackets in winter to stay warm.
Factors like body fat, type, and size also matter. Smaller dogs, such as Chihuahuas, are particularly vulnerable to the cold due to their proximity to the ground and larger surface area relative to their body weight. Dogs with chronic health issues or poor circulation, as well as puppies and older dogs, also benefit from the added warmth a jacket provides.
When Should a Dog Wear a Jacket?
There isn’t a specific temperature at which a dog needs a jacket, as it varies based on the same factors mentioned earlier: breed, age, coat, and health. Individual preferences play a significant role; two identical dogs may react differently to the same temperature.
To determine if your dog needs a jacket, observe their body language. Signs of discomfort from the cold include shivering, lifting a paw off the ground, or changes in behavior. When using a jacket, especially during activities like running or biking, monitor your dog closely. Strenuous exercise generates body heat, so be wary of overheating, which can manifest as excessive panting or staggering. Wearing a jacket while warming up or cooling down on chilly days can be beneficial. It’s also wise to carry a lightweight, packable jacket for breaks or unexpected temperature drops.
Which Dog Jacket is Best for My Dog?
Dog jackets generally fall into two main categories: rain jackets and winter jackets. While there are also full-body snow suits and visibility covers, this guide focuses primarily on warm and waterproof jackets.
When selecting a dog jacket, consider the following:
- Fit: Ensure the jacket has an ergonomic design that allows for full freedom of movement. It should stay securely in place while your dog is active. Look for features like leg straps or loops to thread the line through a pulling harness, preventing the jacket from lifting in strong winds. Many jackets have adjustable cinch points for a customized fit.
- Weight: A lightweight jacket is essential for maintaining your dog’s natural insulation. Their fur creates air pockets that help retain warmth. Choose a jacket that fits without compressing their coat.
- Compatibility with Other Gear: Since dog jackets are typically worn outdoors, look for jackets that easily integrate with other equipment, such as harnesses or collars. A jacket with a leash opening for a harness worn underneath enhances usability.
- Materials: Contrary to popular belief, a thick, puffy jacket isn’t necessarily warmer. Lightweight insulated jackets made with materials like PrimaLoft® offer excellent insulation without bulk. Durability is also key, as dogs can put their gear to the test. Our product development team prioritizes high-quality, functional, and environmentally friendly materials. We take pride in being the first pet brand to become a bluesign® SYSTEM PARTNER, emphasizing sustainability.
- Visibility: Since dog jackets are often worn in low visibility conditions, bright colors and reflective materials enhance safety.
Dog Winter Jackets
The needs of a musher’s dogs differ from those of pet owners needing jackets for breaks. Therefore, we offer various warm jackets designed for winter use.
- Glacier Jacket 2.0: This lightweight, functional winter jacket provides freedom of movement while protecting against cold, wind, rain, and snow. It features a collar and harness opening, reflective prints, and cinch points for an optimal fit.
- Glacier Wool Jacket 2.0: Similar in design to the Glacier Jacket, this version includes a wool lining. Wool is natural, sustainable, and absorbs moisture without feeling wet, regulating body temperature effectively.
- Blest Jacket: Designed for dog mushing, this featherlight jacket boasts PrimaLoft® insulation and is easily packable. It features a secure fit with hook-and-loop fasteners and an ergonomic design for full freedom of movement.
- Long Distance Jacket: Our warmest option, this jacket features thicker synthetic thermal insulation, ideal for extreme temperatures and designed for both active and resting phases.
Dog Rain Jackets
Given the unpredictable Scandinavian weather, we created the Fjord Raincoat, a waterproof rain jacket with a 15,000 mm waterproof rating. It offers excellent breathability and fits well on any dog size, ensuring unrestricted movement. Features include adjustable cinch points, leg straps, and reflective details for visibility.
Dog Emergency Jacket
The Trail Light Dog Jacket is both waterproof and windproof, designed for unpredictable weather. This ultra-lightweight jacket protects against wind, rain, and snow, with a 10,000 mm waterproof rating and 50,000 g/m²/24hr breathability. Leg straps ensure a secure fit, allowing for freedom of movement.
