Waterproof Dog Coats & Raincoats
Why are waterproof dog coats useful?

A waterproof dog coat helps keep your dog dry. This not only makes rainy walks more enjoyable for your dog but can also help prevent them from getting too cold or catching an illness. A waterproof dog coat also makes grooming easier, as less dirt and mud gets into their fur.
The key benefits at a glance:
- Reliable protection from wet weather: Waterproof or water-resistant materials keep out rain, snow and dirt
- Sizes for the perfect fit: Available in a wide range of sizes, with adjustable fastenings for a secure fit
- Lightweight comfort: Flexible, lightweight fabrics ensure they can move freelyWide choice of colours: Available in a variety of colours and designs to suit every taste
As well as protecting against wet weather, some dog raincoats come with extra features that are practical and helpful during walks.
- Optional belly cover: Adds extra protection for the belly
- Reflective elements: Improve visibility in the dark or in low-light conditions
- Hoods & high collars: Provide even more protection from wet and cold weather
- Practical lead access on the back: Makes it easy to attach and detach the lead from the harness
- Warm lining: Provides extra warmth on cold days
This content is a translation of the original text published on zooplus.de, reviewed by Author Aura McMenamin in collaboration with our editorial team. The information provided is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your vet if you have any concerns about your pet’s health or wellbeing.
Why are waterproof dog coats useful?

A waterproof dog coat helps keep your dog dry. This not only makes rainy walks more enjoyable for your dog but can also help prevent them from getting too cold or catching an illness. A waterproof dog coat also makes grooming easier, as less dirt and mud gets into their fur.
The key benefits at a glance:
- Reliable protection from wet weather: Waterproof or water-resistant materials keep out rain, snow and dirt
- Sizes for the perfect fit: Available in a wide range of sizes, with adjustable fastenings for a secure fit
- Lightweight comfort: Flexible, lightweight fabrics ensure they can move freelyWide choice of colours: Available in a variety of colours and designs to suit every taste
As well as protecting against wet weather, some dog raincoats come with extra features that are practical and helpful during walks.
- Optional belly cover: Adds extra protection for the belly
- Reflective elements: Improve visibility in the dark or in low-light conditions
- Hoods & high collars: Provide even more protection from wet and cold weather
- Practical lead access on the back: Makes it easy to attach and detach the lead from the harness
- Warm lining: Provides extra warmth on cold days
This content is a translation of the original text published on zooplus.de, reviewed by Author Aura McMenamin in collaboration with our editorial team. The information provided is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult your vet if you have any concerns about your pet’s health or wellbeing.
Which waterproof dog coat is the best?
Waterproof dog coats come in many different styles and materials. The right raincoat for your dog will depend on their size, coat type and activity level. You should also check whether the coat is waterproof or simply water-resistant, and whether it is suitable for its intended use. Some styles combine several benefits in one.
Here’s an overview of the most common styles and their key features:
Style | Features & Benefits | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
Waterproof dog coats with belly protection | Extra protection for the sensitive belly area | Sensitive dogs, short-haired dogs and long-haired dogs whose coats quickly become waterlogged |
Rain jackets for small dogs | Made from lightweight, breathable materials | Small breeds such as Dachshunds and Chihuahuas |
Waterproof coats for large dogs | Durable material and reinforced fastenings | Large breeds such as Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds Dogs |
Reflective rain jackets for dogs | Highly visible, reflective details | Dogs who are walked at dusk or at night |
Lined waterproof dog coats | Fixed or removable insulating lining | Short-haired, small, elderly or unwell dogs that feel the cold easily. Especially useful on cold, rainy or snowy days |
Style | Features & Benefits | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
Waterproof dog coats with belly protection | Extra protection for the sensitive belly area | Sensitive dogs, short-haired dogs and long-haired dogs whose coats quickly become waterlogged |
Rain jackets for small dogs | Made from lightweight, breathable materials | Small breeds such as Dachshunds and Chihuahuas |
Waterproof coats for large dogs | Durable material and reinforced fastenings | Large breeds such as Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds Dogs |
Reflective rain jackets for dogs | Highly visible, reflective details | Dogs who are walked at dusk or at night |
Lined waterproof dog coats | Fixed or removable insulating lining | Short-haired, small, elderly or unwell dogs that feel the cold easily. Especially useful on cold, rainy or snowy days |
Which waterproof dog coat is the best?
Waterproof dog coats come in many different styles and materials. The right raincoat for your dog will depend on their size, coat type and activity level. You should also check whether the coat is waterproof or simply water-resistant, and whether it is suitable for its intended use. Some styles combine several benefits in one.
Here’s an overview of the most common styles and their key features:
Style | Features & Benefits | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
Waterproof dog coats with belly protection | Extra protection for the sensitive belly area | Sensitive dogs, short-haired dogs and long-haired dogs whose coats quickly become waterlogged |
Rain jackets for small dogs | Made from lightweight, breathable materials | Small breeds such as Dachshunds and Chihuahuas |
Waterproof coats for large dogs | Durable material and reinforced fastenings | Large breeds such as Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds Dogs |
Reflective rain jackets for dogs | Highly visible, reflective details | Dogs who are walked at dusk or at night |
Lined waterproof dog coats | Fixed or removable insulating lining | Short-haired, small, elderly or unwell dogs that feel the cold easily. Especially useful on cold, rainy or snowy days |
Style | Features & Benefits | Suitable for |
|---|---|---|
Waterproof dog coats with belly protection | Extra protection for the sensitive belly area | Sensitive dogs, short-haired dogs and long-haired dogs whose coats quickly become waterlogged |
Rain jackets for small dogs | Made from lightweight, breathable materials | Small breeds such as Dachshunds and Chihuahuas |
Waterproof coats for large dogs | Durable material and reinforced fastenings | Large breeds such as Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds Dogs |
Reflective rain jackets for dogs | Highly visible, reflective details | Dogs who are walked at dusk or at night |
Lined waterproof dog coats | Fixed or removable insulating lining | Short-haired, small, elderly or unwell dogs that feel the cold easily. Especially useful on cold, rainy or snowy days |
How do I choose the right size waterproof dog coat?
To find the right size dog raincoat, measure your dog’s back length, neck circumference and chest circumference. You can then use the adjustable straps to tailor the fit, ensuring the coat sits comfortably, keeps out the rain and doesn’t restrict your dog’s movement. You’ll find detailed measuring guides and size charts in the product descriptions on zooplus.
How do I choose the right size waterproof dog coat?
To find the right size dog raincoat, measure your dog’s back length, neck circumference and chest circumference. You can then use the adjustable straps to tailor the fit, ensuring the coat sits comfortably, keeps out the rain and doesn’t restrict your dog’s movement. You’ll find detailed measuring guides and size charts in the product descriptions on zooplus.
Does a waterproof dog coat keep my dog warm?
Waterproof dog coats provide effective protection from the rain but aren’t always lined. If you also want the raincoat to keep your dog warm, it’s best to choose one with built-in lining. This added warmth will be especially helpful during winter for small or short-haired dogs, such as Chihuahuas. Another way to provide extra protection from the cold is to put a thin dog jumper underneath the raincoat. This will help keep your dog cosy even in low temperatures.
Does a waterproof dog coat keep my dog warm?
Waterproof dog coats provide effective protection from the rain but aren’t always lined. If you also want the raincoat to keep your dog warm, it’s best to choose one with built-in lining. This added warmth will be especially helpful during winter for small or short-haired dogs, such as Chihuahuas. Another way to provide extra protection from the cold is to put a thin dog jumper underneath the raincoat. This will help keep your dog cosy even in low temperatures.
How do I care for and clean a waterproof dog coat?
To maintain a coat’s waterproofing, clean it regularly. Most styles can be hand-washed using a mild detergent. Some are also machine-washable, but we recommend always checking the manufacturer’s care instructions first. After cleaning, leave the coat to air-dry and keep it away from direct sunlight and radiators to protect the fabric. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can damage the water-repellent coating.
How do I care for and clean a waterproof dog coat?
To maintain a coat’s waterproofing, clean it regularly. Most styles can be hand-washed using a mild detergent. Some are also machine-washable, but we recommend always checking the manufacturer’s care instructions first. After cleaning, leave the coat to air-dry and keep it away from direct sunlight and radiators to protect the fabric. Avoid using fabric softener, as it can damage the water-repellent coating.
What is the difference between a water-repellent and a waterproof dog coat?
A water-repellent dog raincoat protects against light rain or drizzle by causing water to bead up and roll off the surface. These coats are often made from materials such as polyester with a water-repellent coating such as DWR (durable water repellent). However, moisture may penetrate the fabric in heavy or prolonged rain. A waterproof dog coat, on the other hand, provides reliable protection even in heavy rain or on longer walks in wet weather. It is usually made from materials such as coated nylon, polyurethane (PU) or specialist membrane fabrics such as Gore-Tex, which provide a lasting barrier against water. Waterproof styles also have sealed seams to prevent water from getting in.
What is the difference between a water-repellent and a waterproof dog coat?
A water-repellent dog raincoat protects against light rain or drizzle by causing water to bead up and roll off the surface. These coats are often made from materials such as polyester with a water-repellent coating such as DWR (durable water repellent). However, moisture may penetrate the fabric in heavy or prolonged rain. A waterproof dog coat, on the other hand, provides reliable protection even in heavy rain or on longer walks in wet weather. It is usually made from materials such as coated nylon, polyurethane (PU) or specialist membrane fabrics such as Gore-Tex, which provide a lasting barrier against water. Waterproof styles also have sealed seams to prevent water from getting in.




























