Dog Coats

Coats that keeps your companion safe & dry

Dog Coats

When the Irish weather turns cold or rainy, even our four-legged friends appreciate a bit of extra warmth and protection. Dog coats are not just a fashion statement – they help keep your pet warm, dry, and comfortable in Ireland’s damp climate.

 

Many dogs, especially short-haired breeds, small dogs, and seniors, can feel the chill on brisk winter walks. A quality dog coat shields them from rain, wind, and low temperatures, ensuring every walk is a tail-wagging adventure instead of a shivering ordeal.

 

Explore an exciting variety of dog accessories to suit every canine personality – from tough chew toys that entertain and challenge, to stylish collars, leads, and harnesses for all your walks and adventures together. For grooming and wellness, we have you covered with dog grooming and health supplies. Find gentle dog shampoos, brushes, and dental care kits to keep your pup looking and feeling their best. We also stock effective flea and worm treatments to protect your dog year-round, along with vitamins and supplements recommended for their health.

 

Many dogs, especially short-haired breeds, small dogs, and seniors, can feel the chill on brisk winter walks. A quality dog coat shields them from rain, wind, and low temperatures, ensuring every walk is a tail-wagging adventure instead of a shivering ordeal.

 

At Petworld, we offer an extensive range of dog coats and jackets to suit every need. Does your dog love puddle jumping? Check out our waterproof dog coats that repel rain and mud. For dark early-morning or evening walks, we have reflective and high-visibility coats that ensure you and your dog stay safe and seen. Planning a hike or snowy adventure? Our thermal coats and fleece-lined winter dog coats are designed for maximum warmth. We even stock lightweight shower-proof jackets for those unpredictable Irish rain showers in spring or autumn.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I measure my dog for a coat? +
To get the perfect fit, measure your dog’s back length and chest girth. Use a soft tape measure to measure from the base of the neck (where the collar sits) along the spine to the base of the tail – this gives you the coat length. Then measure around the widest part of your dog’s chest (just behind the front legs) for girth. Compare these measurements to the coat’s size chart. A properly sized coat should cover from the neck to just above the tail base and wrap comfortably around the chest and belly without being too tight. If your dog is between sizes, it’s usually best to size up a little for comfort. (Tip: our Petworld team is happy to help with sizing in-store or via customer service.)
Which dogs really need to wear coats? +
Any dog can enjoy a coat in bad weather, but certain dogs benefit the most. Short-haired breeds, small breeds, puppies, and older dogs tend to get cold faster and often need a coat in chilly or wet conditions. Breeds like greyhounds, whippets, or Dobermans (with very short fur and low body fat) appreciate a warm layer in winter. Tiny breeds like Chihuahuas or Yorkies, which lose heat quickly, also feel more secure with a jacket on cold walks. Senior dogs or those with arthritis may need a coat to keep their joints warm and ease stiffness. Even active medium or large dogs might need rain protection if they’re out in pouring rain or if the temperature drops near freezing. On the other hand, breeds with thick double-coats (huskies, Newfoundlands, etc.) handle cold better, but they can still use raincoats to stay dry. Pay attention to your dog’s behavior – if they are shivering, reluctant to go outside, or curling up to stay warm, a coat is a good idea.
Does my dog need a coat in Ireland’s weather? +
Ireland’s climate is mild but often wet and windy. Many dogs will be fine on brief outings, but in winter or during heavy rain, a coat is highly recommended. Our winters, while not extreme, involve cold rain, wind chill, and occasional frost – conditions that can make dogs uncomfortable when they’re outside for more than a few minutes. A waterproof coat or raincoat helps keep your dog dry during those sudden rain showers (which Ireland is famous for!). In colder months (late autumn through early spring), a warm insulated coat can make a big difference, especially during early morning or evening walks. Remember, dogs that are accustomed to indoor heating will feel the contrast when they go outside in winter. A good rule of thumb: if you need a jacket or umbrella, your dog could likely use a coat or rainproof layer too. Always monitor your pet – if they’re shivering or lifting paws off the cold ground, it’s a sign they’re uncomfortably cold. Having a coat handy for those days means you won’t have to skip walks (or suffer through puppy-dog eyes because the weather’s too rough!).
What types of dog coats are available at Petworld? +
Raincoats and Waterproof Jackets: Lightweight, water-resistant coats (often nylon or PVC-coated) that keep your dog dry in rain. These are great for Ireland’s frequent showers. Many have hoods or high collars and reflective strips for visibility. Winter & Thermal Coats: Thick, insulated coats designed for warmth. These often have fleece or sherpa linings, quilted padding, and sometimes a waterproof outer layer – perfect for cold winter days or older dogs who feel the cold.
Fleece & Sweaters: Soft fleece jackets and knitted dog sweaters that are ideal for crisp but dry days, or for layering under a raincoat. They’re breathable and comfy for everyday wear or for indoor use in a chilly house.
High-Visibility & Reflective Coats: Safety coats with reflective materials or bright neon colors. These are excellent for walking your dog at dawn, dusk, or nighttime, ensuring drivers and cyclists can see them. (Some of our winter coats and raincoats have reflective piping as an added feature too.) Specialty Coats: This includes things like Cooling coats (for the rare hot summer day – these vests keep dogs cool when soaked in water) or Anxiety wrap coats (which swaddle the dog for comfort, though those are more for calming than weather). We also occasionally stock life jackets for dogs (for safety when swimming or boating) under our broader dog apparel category.
In short, whether you need something functional for the outdoors or just a stylish extra layer, you’ll find options in our Dog Coats category. Each product description on our site indicates the coat type and best use, making it easy to choose one that fits your dog’s lifestyle.
How do I wash or clean my dog’s coat? +
Most of our dog coats are designed to be easy to clean, because let’s face it – coats can get muddy fast in an active dog’s life! The majority of fabric dog coats (polyester, fleece, cotton blends) are machine-washable on a gentle cycle. We recommend fastening all Velcro straps or buckles before washing (to prevent snags) and using a mild detergent. Wash in cold or lukewarm water. It’s best to air dry coats if possible, as high heat can damage waterproof coatings or cause shrinkage. For coats with special materials (like leather trim or specialty reflective coating), spot cleaning with a damp cloth is a safe approach. Always check the care label on the coat – we include this info on our product pages. Pro tip: Keep an old towel by the door to wipe down your dog’s coat after a rainy walk. Often, a quick wipe to remove surface dirt means you can go a bit longer between full washes. Keeping the coat clean will ensure it continues to do its job (mud can clog up waterproof fabrics if not cleaned off, for example) and will keep your dog smelling fresh even after that romping in the muck!
My dog doesn’t like wearing a coat – what can I do? +
It’s not uncommon for dogs to be unsure about a new coat at first. The key is gentle training and positive association. Start by letting your dog sniff the coat and rewarding them with treats so they associate it with good things. Then put it on for very short periods indoors – even just draping it over their back initially – and praise them or offer a treat. Gradually increase the time and ensure the coat fits comfortably (an ill-fitting coat could make them dislike the experience). Make sure to choose a coat that is lightweight and not noisy (some dogs dislike the sound of velcro or rustling fabric). When you first go outside in the coat, distract your dog with a fun game or brisk walk so they focus on the world, not the new garment. Most dogs adjust quickly, but if yours still protests, double-check the fit (no pinching or rubbing). It can also help to try a different style – for example, some dogs prefer a sleeveless vest style coat over one with leg straps. Patience and positive reinforcement go a long way. In time, your pup will likely realize that coat = going out for exciting walks, and they may even start to wag when you pull the coat out!