Do Dogs Need Raincoats? The Answer Might Surprise You
Is there anything as annoying as losing out on valuable dog walking time just because of a wet Saturday morning?
That's right, you've had clear weather and lots of sunshine the entire week, but come Saturday morning, your weekend play session in the park is ruined by a cold wind and gentle rainfall.
There's nothing to do but stay inside, waiting for the sun to make an appearance… Or you could grab an umbrella and reach for your dog's raincoat and enjoy the crisp Saturday morning.
If you're unsure whether or not your dog needs a raincoat, this article is just for you. Let's look at the different breeds that need a coat - and why.
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Key Takeaways
Not all dog breeds need raincoats. Small breeds, thin-coated dogs, elderly or immunocompromised dogs, and breeds with non-water-resistant coats all do better when provided with a suitable raincoat.
Dog Breeds That Need Raincoats
Many dogs don't do well with the rain. Many short-legged breeds, dogs with thin coats, or those with sensitive skin and a tendency for matting, need to be kept dry. Your dog’s body type can also be an issue, with skinny dogs feeling the cold much more easily than stockier breeds.
Smaller breeds also do well with raincoats that provide full coverage, to keep them safe from splash-up, as well as reflective elements to make them more visible to cars in inclement weather.
The following breeds simply don't like rainy weather:
Pomeranian
Pomeranians, with their fluffy double coats, might seem well-equipped for the rain, but their dense fur can still become soaked, leading to discomfort and potential health issues. A dog raincoat not only keeps them dry but also helps preserve the fluffiness of their coat, which many owners prize. Shorter dogs may also be closer to wet grass and mud
Yorkshire Terrier
Yorkshire Terriers have long, flowing coats that can easily become waterlogged in the rain.
Their silky fur, while beautiful, offers little protection against moisture, making them susceptible to chills and discomfort. A raincoat provides much-needed protection, keeping them warm and dry during wet weather walks.
Shih Tzu
Shih Tzus, known for their luxurious coats, can suffer in rainy conditions due to their dense, flowing fur.
Without a waterproof jacket, your dog’s fur can become heavy and matted when wet, leading to hygiene issues and discomfort. A raincoat helps maintain their coat's integrity and keeps them cozy and dry, ensuring a happier pup even in the rain.
French Bulldog
French bulldogs are a short breed. Short legs, short snouts, short tempers, and short coats.
These short-haired dogs are also more susceptible to colds and flu than other breeds, and can have sensitive skin that doesn’t tolerate being wet for long. In some cases, your Frenchie could develop pneumonia, which poses a serious health risk.
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So, if you have one of these adorable dogs, you might want to get them a raincoat for those winter mornings. A well-designed raincoat will cover their entire body and keep water away from their coats, keeping them dry on their walks.
Pit Bull Terrier
Believe it or not, the American Pit Bull Terrier is another dog breed that would benefit from a raincoat. Yep, they have medium-length legs that help to keep your dog’s belly out of the wet, but they are also one of the short-coated breeds that don't have water-resistant coats, and can easily suffer without extra protection in cold temperatures.
Pit bulls are also extremely active dogs that need regular exercise so that a raincoat would come in handy more often than not in the colder winter months.
Older Dogs
Your dog's age should also be considered when opting for a rain jacket or not during the rainy season.
No matter the breed, senior dogs need extra help to keep warm in the winter months when the temperature drops. Old dogs often have problems with arthritic joints, making wet weather especially uncomfortable for them.
Dogs That Don't Need Raincoats
Not all breeds will need a raincoat.
With their long legs and thick coats, some long-haired dogs thrive in rainy weather. Especially hunting breeds or those bred for wet weather.
However, some can still get cold if wet for too long, so bringing some minimal protection dog coats or a towel might help get rid of the wet dog smell, warm them up, and add to your dog’s comfort.
Many of these dogs can benefit from other rainy-day clothing, such as dog shoes, to keep their paws away from toxic runoff, protect them from rough terrain, or provide extra grip on ice.
Labrador Retriever
Labs and golden retrievers have a dense, water-resistant double coat that protects them from rain.
Their outer coat repels water, keeping their skin relatively dry even in wet weather. Additionally, their undercoat provides insulation, helping them stay warm despite the rain.
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Australian Cattle Dog
Known for their durability and weather-resistant coat, Australian Cattle Dogs have a dense, water-repellent outer coat that sheds water efficiently.
This breed's coat is designed to keep them dry and comfortable in various weather conditions, making them well-suited to handle rain without the need for additional protection.
Border Collie
Border Collies often have a thick, weather-resistant double coat that serves as excellent protection against rain.
Their outer coat is water-resistant, helping to repel moisture and keep the dog warm. This breed's coat is also designed to provide insulation, meaning that they generate enough heat to keep themselves toasty when it's cold outside.
These dogs are practically made for wet weather. But that doesn't mean that you don't have to spoil them from time to time.
There are many different clothing options for your pup that will make them feel loved and welcomed into your family. Check out the full Sparkpaws clothing collection for different options.
They are made for all breeds, ensuring your dog's movement is never impeded when wearing one of Sparkpaws' products.
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Getting a Good Dog Raincoat
If you have a breed that needs a raincoat - or you just want to minimize that wet dog smell, make sure you’re getting a good one that will keep your dog completely dry.
Many raincoats come with a protective barrier as well as a lining, but make sure that your protective barrier is breathable while still staying warm. This will help prevent humidity and excess heat from getting trapped.
The right raincoat should cover your dog’s head down to their butt without inhibiting movement or stopping them from pottying. Looking for a raincoat that has a covered leash hole, an extra layer for warmth, or adjustable straps are all important things to consider.
Dog Owners and Pups Matching Sets
While most dogs are happy to live an outdoor life, running and playing in the yard for hours without any human contact, many others become like close family members.
They snooze on our couches, sleep in our beds, and practically live indoors. You might have a furry friend that falls into this category. Your pup is closer to you than most of your human companions and seems to understand you better than anyone else.
Many dog owners will be glad to know that Sparkpaws also distributes one of the best-quality dog clothing ranges in the world.
And a big hit is the matching sets, made for dogs and their owners of all sizes. From the smallest pups to the largest of breeds, Sparkpaws will have both you and your dog covered with the coolest matching hoodies to keep you both looking fine.
Conclusion
Whether your dog needs a raincoat depends on several factors.
A petite dog means they have less natural insulation against the cold and rain, making them more susceptible to discomfort and health issues.
Their fur may lack the water-resistant properties of larger breeds or specific coat types, leading to soggy and uncomfortable conditions in wet weather.
A rain jacket will keep your dog dry and warm in wet weather, reducing the risk of a compromised immune system and reducing the grooming needed after a rainy walk.
FAQs
Should You Put a Raincoat on a Dog?
Many dogs benefit from staying warm and dry with the help of an insulated dog raincoat. Rainy conditions and cold weather can cause some breeds to be very uncomfortable, or cause tangling, matting, and other coat problems in long-haired breeds.
Is It Okay for a Dog to be in the Rain?
Most dogs are fine in the rain, but should be dried off as soon as possible. Wet fur that stays wet too long can cause skin problems and coat issues, and it can be dangerous for short-haired and immunocompromised dogs to get cold.
Do Dogs Feel Cold in the Rain?
A dog may not mind the rain, but bad weather and wet fur can cause your dog’s body temperature to drop. This is especially true if there are windy and wet conditions outside.
Is Walking a Dog in the Rain Dangerous?
Yes, low-light conditions, heavy rain and spray can make you and your dog less visible to drivers. Always make sure you are both dressed warmly, and that smaller dogs have coats or leashes that are brightly colored or contain reflective features to make them more visible.