Does My Dog Need a Coat in Winter? A UK Guide to Dog Coats, Boots and Sizing (2026)

Woman walking a golden retriever in a red insulated dog jacket across a snowy village green

Last updated: 19 October 2026.

The short answer: many dogs are fine without a coat, but small, short-haired, slim-bodied, very young, older and recently clipped dogs often feel the cold on British winter walks, especially in wind and rain. Breeds like whippets, greyhounds, Chihuahuas, dachshunds, French bulldogs and Staffies usually benefit from a coat. Thick double-coated breeds such as huskies, malamutes and most Labradors rarely need one. For the UK, a waterproof coat with a warm lining is the most useful choice. If you are unsure about your dog's health or age, ask your vet.

Dog wearing a waterproof fleece-lined dog coat on a winter walk
A waterproof, fleece-lined coat keeps small and short-haired dogs warm and dry on winter walks.

Which dogs need a coat?

Usually benefit from a coat Usually fine without one
Small and toy breeds (Chihuahua, Yorkshire terrier, miniature pinscher) Thick double coats (husky, malamute, Samoyed, Bernese mountain dog)
Short, thin coats (whippet, greyhound, Italian greyhound, Staffie, boxer) Most Labradors, golden retrievers and collies in normal UK weather
Low to the ground (dachshund, corgi, French bulldog), as their bellies touch wet grass and snow Very active dogs on long runs, who generate plenty of heat
Puppies, older dogs, very slim dogs and dogs with a fresh clip

Wind and rain make a big difference. A dog that is comfortable on a dry, still 5°C day can feel much colder once it is soaked and standing in the wind.

Signs your dog is cold

  • Shivering or trembling
  • Hunched posture or a tucked tail
  • Lifting paws off the ground
  • Slowing down, stopping or trying to turn for home
  • Looking for shelter or burrowing into blankets when you get back

If you notice these, head home, dry your dog off and warm them up. A dog that seems very lethargic or will not warm up needs a vet.

Dog wearing an insulated waterproof dog jacket outdoors
An insulated, waterproof jacket for colder, wetter days.

Which type of dog coat should you choose?

  • Waterproof with a fleece lining: the best all-rounder for British winters. Keeps rain off and warmth in. Our waterproof fleece-lined dog coat with harness is a good example.
  • Insulated or padded: for the coldest days and dogs that really feel the cold, like the insulated winter dog jacket.
  • 2-in-1 coat with built-in harness: clip the lead straight onto the coat, so you do not need a separate harness underneath. See the 2-in-1 waterproof dog coat.
  • Reflective details: worth having for dark winter mornings and evenings.
Dog wearing a 2-in-1 waterproof dog coat with built-in harness
A 2-in-1 coat with a built-in harness: clip the lead straight on.

How to measure your dog for a coat

  1. Back length: measure from the base of the neck (where the collar sits) to the base of the tail. This is the most important measurement.
  2. Chest girth: measure around the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs.
  3. Neck: measure around the neck where the collar sits.

Use a soft tape measure with your dog standing. If your dog falls between sizes, choose the larger size and adjust the straps. A good fit lets you slide two fingers under the coat and does not restrict the shoulders or legs. Every coat page has a size guide, and you can email us with your measurements if you would like help choosing.

Dog in a fleece-lined waterproof coat on a frosty walk
A good fit covers the back without restricting the shoulders.

Do dogs need boots in winter?

Most dogs do not need boots for ordinary walks, but they can help when:

  • Pavements are gritted with salt, which can irritate and dry out paw pads.
  • There is deep or compacted snow, which can ball up between the toes of long-haired dogs.
  • Your dog has sensitive or sore paws.

Introduce boots gradually indoors with treats before using them outside. Whether or not your dog wears boots, wipe their paws with a damp cloth after walks on gritted roads. Our waterproof dog boots with straps stay on with adjustable fastenings.

Dog wearing waterproof dog boots with straps outdoors
Waterproof dog boots help on gritted pavements and in snow.

Keeping your dog warm at home

  • Dry your dog thoroughly after wet walks, especially the belly and legs.
  • Give them a raised or padded bed away from draughts and cold floors. A memory foam bolster dog bed keeps them off cold floors and is easy to keep clean with a washable cover.
  • Protect your car from muddy, wet paws with a back seat cover.
Dog resting on a slate blue memory foam bolster dog bed
A padded bed off the cold floor after a wet winter walk.

Frequently asked questions

At what temperature does a dog need a coat?

There is no single number. Small, thin-coated, young or older dogs may feel the cold on chilly, wet days well above freezing, while thick-coated breeds can be comfortable below freezing. Watch your dog for signs of being cold, and factor in wind and rain.

Is it cruel to put a coat on a dog?

No, as long as it fits well and your dog is comfortable. For dogs that feel the cold, a coat makes winter walks more pleasant. Avoid coats on dogs that are clearly too warm or panting.

Should my dog wear a coat indoors?

Generally no. Take the coat off once you are home so your dog does not overheat, and use a warm bed instead.

What size dog coat do I need?

Measure the back length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail, plus chest girth, then compare with the size guide. If between sizes, go up and adjust the straps.

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