The best dog raincoats, tested with dogs of all sizes

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The best dog raincoats fit properly, allow unrestricted movement, and keep pups dry in all types of weather. And no one appreciates these features more than dogs who are sensitive to rain. Older, smaller, and shorter-haired dogs may experience more discomfort in rainy weather than their counterparts, says Dr. Brian Collins, a veterinarian with the Cornell Riney Canine Health Center. And while age, size, and fur type all play a role, he adds that some dogs just hate getting wet.

To choose the best raincoats, we consulted veterinarians and spoke with professional dog walkers who are no strangers to braving the elements. We also recruited four of our own canine testers to represent a full range of sizes, from a pint-sized Chihuahua to a large German shepherd. In total, we tried 21 raincoats, and for most dogs, the Ruffwear Sun Shower Dog Raincoat is our top recommendation. Its airy windbreaker design offers a superb fit and excellent coverage without inhibiting movement. Plus, it's easy to put on, take off, and clean after muddy adventures.

Read more about how Insider Reviews tests and researches pet products.

Our top picks for the best dog raincoats

Best overall: Ruffwear Sun Shower Dog Raincoat - See at Amazon

Best budget: Mile High Life Dog Raincoat - See at Amazon

Best coverage: Hurtta Mudaventure Dog Coat Eco - See at Amazon

Best for large dogs: Fjord Rain Coat 2.0 - See at Non-stop Dogwear

Best insulated: Ruffwear Vert Waterproof Insulated Vest - See at Amazon

Best overall

The Ruffwear Sun Shower impressed us with its fantastic coverage for all three of our canine testers. Although the dogs varied in size — offering a small, medium, and large perspective — this raincoat fit each one well and kept them dry without restricting their movement.

This vest-style coat slips over the head and buckles at both sides of the belly, offering solid protection from puddle splashes and mud. It pairs well with a back-clip harness, and overlapping fabric at the leash hole keeps rain from sneaking in. Insider Reviews deals editor Sarah Saril particularly liked that the opening was large enough to easily attach her German shepherd's leash.

For smaller pups, finding a coat that offers full coverage without weighing them down can be tricky. But senior home editor Jaclyn Turner says the Sun Shower was a winning fit for her 20-pound dog, Reese. It draped nicely over his legs and sides, fit the entire length of his back, and protected his belly. The Sun Shower does run a bit big, however, so size down if your dog is between sizes — especially for petite pups.

Unlined and lightweight, this coat is better suited for warmer weather, though you could layer it over a sweater in colder temps. Extras include a light-attachment loop and reflective piping, though we found it not as bright as others on our list.

Best budget

The Mile High Life Dog Raincoat packs a lot of value for its budget-friendly price. The waterproofing is highly effective, passing our soak test with flying colors. A mesh lining adds breathability, and the lightweight polyester material makes it a good option for warmer, wet days.

But make no mistake. While this jacket cuts costs, it doesn't cut corners. It held up well to our durability tests, including yanking on the velcro straps and aggressively scratching it with a dinner fork. Our canine tester, Roo, a 40-pound mixed-breed dog, also dragged it through thorny bushes for added quality assurance.

The coat comes with some notable extras, including a leash hole at the collar with a protective flap to keep rain out and super-reflective stripes that are easy to spot in the dark. Our favorite feature, however, is the leg straps, which are both adjustable and removable. Since leg straps can sometimes be too tight or too loose and get in the way, we loved being able to adjust or remove them entirely, especially for bathroom breaks.

There are some downsides, though. The coat doesn't fully cover the belly and shoulders. And you can't toss it in the wash when it gets dirty. It can only be spot-cleaned with a wet cloth, which requires a little extra elbow grease to get out deep-set mud.

Best for coverage

The Hurtta Mudventure Dog Coat Eco offers the most coverage of all the raincoats we tested. Its high collar protects more of the neck, and the material drapes along the sides and down the back, falling around a cutout for the tail. The front provides extra coverage with a poncho-like flap over the chest and shoulders, and highly reflective strips on each end of the coat offer excellent visibility in low light conditions.

While it's a lot of coat, the Hurtta Mudaventure Eco is surprisingly easy for dogs to move around in, thanks to its lightweight design that doesn't impede movement. It does run big, so it's probably best to size down if your dog is between sizes. The good news is that it comes in a wide range of sizes, and the coat itself is highly adjustable. There are two drawstrings at the neck to shorten the collar and one at the back to take in the length. An adjustable strap also firmly cinches around the waist to keep the coat securely in place — but almost too securely. We found the clasp tough to open at first and needed to apply quite a bit of force.

As far as quality goes, you can see and feel that this coat is made of high-quality, durable materials. Roo, our most rambunctious tester, also put this one through the wringer, dragging it through thorns and bushes. The high quality does come at a high price, with the Mudventure Eco also taking the title of the most expensive coat in our guide.

Best for large dogs

Offering a similar design and coverage as the Hurtta Mudventure Eco, the Fjord Raincoat 2.0 has additional sizes for larger dogs, with the biggest extending 37.8 inches in the back. Saril tested this one with 70-pound German shepherd Davey and appreciated that it was easy to put on and secure a snug fit.

There are four adjustment points: two drawstrings at each end of the high-collared neck, an adjustable waistband, and a cinch point in the back by the tail — though we found that last one didn't do much to take up the length.

Beyond its generous sizing and adjustability, there's a lot to love about this sleek coat. The buttery-smooth material and four two-tone color options give it a polished, high-end look, while large reflective stripes and the logo provide high visibility during night walks or moody forest hikes. Drainage holes at the chest panel prevent water from collecting around your dog's belly, and leg straps keep everything in place. The hole for the harness is wide, making it easy to attach the leash, and a flap of fabric prevents rain from dripping inside.

Like the Mudventure, the Fjord 2.0 is on the pricier side. That said, it comes with a two-year warranty. Non-stop dogwear also offers affordable spare buckles you can buy in case yours break.

Best insulated

Soft and warm, the Ruffwear Vert Waterproof Insulated Vest keeps dogs toasty without bogging them down with heavy insulation or a restrictive design. Like the Sun Shower, the vest-style Vert has a chest plate that buckles on each side of the belly to keep it dry. We found the fit snug and flexible, even for our medium-sized tester, Roo, whose broad chest is often difficult to size.

The Vert's waterproofing is also excellent. It passed our soak tests easily and did a great job of protecting PNW-pup Roo on drizzly days. The coat also has a leash hole so dogs can wear it over their harness to keep it dry. However, the coat didn't fully cover the front of Roo's harness, causing the edges around the chest to dampen.

To confirm the coat's ability to retain heat on colder days, we conducted extra tests. Using a water bottle, we filled it with water at 100 degrees, similar to a dog's body temperature. We then wrapped the coat around the water bottle and left it outside in 45-degree weather for 30 minutes. After half an hour, we measured the water's temperature again and found it had only dropped to 96 degrees. For comparison, the same bottle left outside without a coat cooled to 89 degrees, an 11-degree drop.

It comes in four different stylish two-tone colorways with reflective stripes. However, the stripes are not as vibrant as our other recommendations.

What to look for in a dog raincoat

Raincoats differ widely in their fit and features. We asked our veterinarian experts what pet parents should look for when choosing a jacket for their dog's specific needs and body type.

Fit: Both Collins and Dr. Alison Meindl, associate professor of clinical sciences at the Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, say proper fit is important to consider when choosing a raincoat for your dog. The coat shouldn't be too tight or too loose, and the leg openings should be large enough to prevent rubbing or friction on the dog's skin. To ensure a good fit, carefully measure your dog's back length, chest, neck, and drop size using a soft measuring tape and our guide below. Once you have your dog's measurements, compare them to the manufacturer's size guide. When the coat is on your dog, the American Kennel Club recommends using a "two-finger slide test." If you can't slide two fingers under the coat's straps, it's too tight and should be loosened. If you can slide three fingers under, it's too loose.

Adjustability: Ideally, Collins says the coat should be adjustable so it's easy to put on and take off your dog and stays in place while they wear it. Additionally, he says that the jacket should accommodate your dog's coat and body type. For instance, if your dog has a broader chest or tends to puff up with extra winter floof, adjustable chest and belly straps are ideal. Smaller dogs may also find high rain collars inhibit their visibility, so adjustable necks can ensure they stay safe and comfortable. Collin adds that for all dogs, the coat shouldn't get in the way of potty breaks. Adjustable or removable leg straps help prevent any interference, and some coats even have a drawstring to adjust the back length.

Material: Tightly woven fabrics like polyester and nylon are the most common materials for raincoats, with polyester slightly less absorbent and faster-drying than nylon. Polyester is also more breathable, which Meindl says is important to prevent your dog from overheating. These features make polyester well-suited for activities such as long-distance walks in the rain or during heavy downpours. Its breathability is also preferable for warm, rainy climates. On the other hand, nylon is stronger and more durable, making it an excellent choice for active dogs who enjoy hikes in the woods or adventures through rough terrain.

It's important to note that neither nylon nor polyester is completely waterproof. Both materials require an additional waterproof coating of either polyethylene (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to be impervious to moisture. Raincoats made entirely of PVC are also available if you value water resistance over all else. This rubber-like material is completely waterproof, but it is stiffer and less breathable than nylon or polyester.

Meindl also recommends looking for reflective materials to make your dog more visible in low-light conditions.

Waterproof rating: Outdoor brands use water-entry pressure tests to determine waterproof ratings, which is the point at which the fabric leaks. The higher the rating, often measured in millimeters, the higher the effectiveness. However, different brands have different ideas about what equates to waterproofing. For example, REI considers 2,109 mm or higher to be rainproof, while Ruffwear says between 5,000 mm and 10,000 mm is fully waterproof. Both brands agree, though, that wind-driven rain is equivalent to 1,400 mm of pressure. So, if you can find a rating above that, you'll likely be okay. And if you're still unsure, GORE-TEX experts say that simulation tests — like the ones we conducted for this guide — can provide more answers.

Design: Different raincoats will have different closures and attachment systems. "Jackets may include features such as Velcro, buckles, snaps, zippers, and buttons — find what works best for you," Collins says. For wiggly dogs who can't sit still or dislike things placed over their heads, Meindl recommends opting for a Velcro closure over snaps and zippers to speed things up.

Care Instructions: Since rainy walks often expose your dog — and their raincoat — to mud and grimy puddles, look for a coat that's easy to clean. Coats that can be thrown in the wash are more convenient for frequent use than ones that must be hand-washed.

How we tested the best dog raincoats

We first published this guide in 2021 after freelance reporter and professional dog trainer Shoshi Parks interviewed dog walkers and a veterinarian to learn more about the best raincoats. Due to dry weather and COVID-19 pandemic restrictions at the time of writing, she could not test these jackets on dogs of multiple shapes and sizes in real rainy weather. Instead, she devised a few tests to simulate wet and muddy conditions.

Since then, freelance reporter Elizabeth Holbrook has conducted further testing on some of the same products — as well as new options — by trying out medium-sized coats with her 40-pound rescue mix. Additionally, deals editor Sarah Saril and her 15-pound Chihuahua, along with senior home editor Jaclyn Turner and her 20-pound pup, tried our small raincoat options. Saril's 70-pound German shepherd also tested our large jacket contender. Along with assessing fit, comfort, and waterproofing effectiveness by taking their dogs outside in a variety of weather, including that of the rainy Pacific Northwest, they used the tests below to make their picks.

Fit test: First, we confirmed that the coat's actual measurements matched the advertised size, noting when the jacket fit more tightly or loosely than expected. Next, we evaluated how easy each coat was to put on, adjust, and take off. From there, we took our dogs on two walks or more, staying outside for at least 10 minutes, often much longer. We examined whether any part of the raincoat caused discomfort or restricted movement, including the dog's ability to go to the bathroom. We also determined whether the coat provided full coverage or left key areas exposed.

Durability test: Upon unboxing the coats, we confirmed their quality and checked for any construction defects, such as flimsy material or broken seams. To test for durability, we tugged on buckles, zippers, and straps. We also operated zippers and Velcro closures 20-plus times to ensure they wouldn't break easily with extended wear. For all coats, we used a dinner fork and pressed down as hard as possible to see if it caused any damage to the fabric or hardware. We also noted any changes in quality after our walks and adventures with our dogs.

Soak test: This waterproofing test evaluated how each raincoat would stand up under heavy rain. We also wanted to see if the coat would start leaking after getting soaked at any point during a standard 30-minute walk. To test this, we took a clean, dry towel and wrapped each coat around it before placing the coat on the top of a bucket in the shower. We then sprayed the coat for two minutes and let it sit in the shower for 30 minutes. Then we examined whether the towel and the coat's inner lining remained dry. We also noted if there was a considerable difference in the weight or temperature of the raincoat. To ensure the rain jackets didn't lose their waterproofing after washing, we repeated this test after completing our cleaning test below.

Cleaning test: The cleaning test consisted of three parts. First, we wiped a handful of mud on the exterior of each jacket and let it dry overnight. Next, we attempted to wipe off the mud using a clean, dry cloth. Finally, we washed the raincoat according to the manufacturer's instructions, looking for any stains or other changes in the material.

Dog raincoats FAQs

Should dogs wear raincoats?

Not all dogs need a raincoat, and most dogs' fur should provide sufficient protection from the rain. However, Meindl and Collins say breeds with particularly short or thin coats, such as greyhounds and whippets, may appreciate the added rain barrier a coat provides. Collins adds that dogs with lean body conditions are also more likely to become uncomfortable or chilled. For instance, the American Kennel Club recommends raincoats for senior dogs, whose bodies have less fat to insulate them. Lastly, Collins points out that some dogs should wear a raincoat simply because they don't like getting wet.

When should your dog wear a raincoat?

If your dog is experiencing an underlying health concern, Collins says a raincoat may help keep them comfortable and warm. "A raincoat will be useful for dogs that need to stay dry due to healing from a recent surgery or a skin problem that is under treatment," he says. For dogs with skin issues, he adds that prolonged periods of dampness can predispose them to bacterial or fungal infections. Collins also says that dogs are more likely to require a coat when the temperatures drop or when they're outside for an extended period. "Dogs who are going outside for a quick potty break may not need a raincoat unless it is colder," he adds.

What is the best waterproof fabric for dog coats?

Polyester and nylon are the most common fabrics used in dog raincoats, and both repel water effectively. That said, polyester is slightly less absorbent, resulting in faster drying times. It's also lighter and more breathable than nylon, which Meindl says is an important characteristic to prevent your dog from overheating. Nylon is slightly stronger and more abrasion-resistant, so it's better suited for dogs who enjoy hiking or rough play. Keep in mind that for either material to be truly waterproof, an additional coating such as polyurethane (PU) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is required. Dog raincoats made entirely of PVC are also available. They offer complete protection against rain, but their minimal breathability isn't the best option for warmer weather or dogs with thicker coats.

Should a dog raincoat have a hood?

Meindl says there's no harm in dressing your dog in a hooded coat if they tolerate the hood, but she doesn't recommend them specifically. Matthew Condrin, professional dog walker and owner of Urban Canines, says that while a hood may seem like a good idea, it can add more frustration than function. "They annoy the dogs by sometimes covering their eyes and interfere with leashing — plus they rarely stay up," Condrin says. In freelance reporter Alex Rennie's experience, both his dogs tend to shake their hoods off during walks, and he finds them more restrictive than useful.

How to measure your dog for a raincoat

Dogs come in so many different shapes and sizes that fitting one for a raincoat can be a lengthy process of trial and error. Since there's no universal sizing for canine apparel, what one brand considers small could easily be considered large by another brand. To get the right fit, grab a measuring tape and follow these instructions.

Length: The primary dimension used to determine the size of a raincoat is the length of a dog's back. Measure your dog from the base of their tail to their shoulder blades while they are standing in a relaxed position. If your measurement falls between sizes, size up. Some brands may recommend a specific size for certain breeds. This may be helpful, but don't rely on suggestions alone, as sizes can vary among a single breed.

Chest girth: Dog raincoats are also commonly measured by chest girth. This is an important figure to get right because many jackets are not adjustable around the chest. That's doubly true if you have a broad or barrel-chested pup. To get this figure, measure the circumference of your dog's chest while they're standing in a relaxed position, wrapping the tape right behind the legs at the chest's widest point. If your dog's chest girth falls between sizes, choose the larger option, especially if your dog does a lot of running and jumping. A highly active dog may benefit from a jacket that is an inch or two wider than their actual measurement because it will allow their front legs more freedom of movement.

Neck girth: To make sure your jacket won't be too tight around the neck, measure around the thickest part right below the collar. This is particularly important if the coat's neck lacks an adjustable opening. When in doubt, size up.

Drop: Occasionally, brands offer a drop measurement to help you get the right fit. The drop is how low a jacket hangs on a dog's body and legs. If the measurement is too long, it may restrict movement; too short, and your pup may get wet by the end of a walk. Your dog's raincoat should extend at most halfway down the leg. To figure out how a jacket will lie on your dog, compare half its width to the distance between the top of your dog's tail to the ankle of their hind leg just above the paw.

How to walk your dog in the rain

If your dog hates leaving the house when the rain starts to fall, in addition to fitting them with one of the best dog raincoats, these tips for wet-weather walking will ensure that you meet their most important daily needs.

Get the right gear: Make rainy day walks more enjoyable by getting your pup one of the best dog raincoats. A properly fitted coat that covers both the chest and belly will prevent your dog from splashing water against the most sensitive parts of their body. If your dog has sensitive paws, you may also want to consider getting a set of the best dog boots.

Plan ahead: Unless the forecast calls for extreme weather, most rainy days have at least a couple of periods in which showers slow to a sprinkle. Use a weather tracking app or website to help you predict when a storm will lighten up.

Encourage, don't force: Even if you have the proper rain gear for your pup, your dog may still avoid the rain at all costs. These dogs will likely require an extra incentive. Before getting ready to go, stuff your pockets full of treats and offer them before you step out the door. If putting on rain gear predicts that treats will follow, your dog will be more likely to allow you to get them dressed. Use your treats to entice your dog out the door instead of forcing them to go out into the rain, which will only make them more frightened and stressed out.

Play the "Find It" game: Keep the treats flowing once outside. Try encouraging your dog to walk with the Find It game. Throw a treat a few feet in front of your dog and say, "find it," in a happy tone. Let them gobble up the treat, then throw your next one, repeating the phrase. Play the game as much as necessary during the walk to get your pup's mind off the water falling from the sky.

Don't expect a regular walk: Even with plenty of treats and encouragement, dogs who really hate the rain aren't likely to want to stay outdoors for long. If they go potty and then refuse to go any farther, that's OK. Bring them back inside and make up the missed exercise with play or indoor training. Read more on backup plans below.

Stick to quiet streets: On rainy days, when cars zoom through puddles, the busier the street, the louder it will be. And the more noise, the more frightened your dog is likely to feel — not to mention all that potential for being splashed by passing vehicles. When it's raining, stick to quieter streets where there is less noise and where it is less likely you and your dog will get soaked.

Avoid walking at night: It can be a huge challenge for drivers to see dogs on dark, wet nights. When it's raining, stay safe by taking your daily walks before the sun sets. If you must go out in the rain at night, stick to well-lit areas and avoid busy streets.

Have a backup plan: If your dog refuses to walk in the rain, you'll need a backup plan to meet their daily exercise and potty needs. Both training and play inside the home are good alternatives and can include multiple 5- to 10-minute training sessions, games of hide-and-seek, indoor fetch with a soft toy, and mental stimulation via the best dog toys. For the latter, you may have to get creative. Try a fresh grass indoor potty or select a sheltered location immediately outside your home where your dog can quickly do their business, then come back inside.

Be gentle with post-walk drying: Whether you've managed to get your dog out on a long walk or a short one, their paws, head, and belly will likely need some toweling off. Unfortunately, these are also some of the most sensitive parts of a dog's body. Unless you have a dog that loves to be wrapped in a towel, be gentle and slow when wiping them down. It may help to ask them to lie down so you can easily access their paws without knocking them off balance. Reward them for each body part you towel off. Each foot earns one treat, each ear earns another, and the belly gets two. Don't be surprised if your dog gets the zoomies after you've dried them off. It's a natural release of pent-up energy that commonly occurs after a stressful experience.