Whilst some dog breeds are designed to handle cold conditions well with their thick fur (Husky, Samoyed etc.) other dogs through breeding and other factors, are very unsuited to cold weather. Dogs that have short coats (Dachshund), small or light-framed dogs (Greyhound, Whippet, Pug) tend to have very little in the way of natural layering, and are good candidates for dog coats.
Old dogs, or dogs with sicknesses have weaker immune systems, and can have trouble growing hair and with circulation, and so are more susceptible to cold weather, and also may have more need of a jacket. If you noticed that your dog is reluctant to go outside to relieve himself or shivers then he probably could use a bit of extra layering in the colder months.
The next step is to choose the right winter accessories based on your dog's lifestyle and plan well ahead of that first cold snap!
The Ruffwear Climate Changer Fleece Jacket offers a streamlined fit and its award-winning use of Polartec material makes this the best dog fleece on the market!
Ideal for cold and clear conditions, your dog can use this lightweight and breathable coat for bush walking, trail running, in-town excursions... any time your dog needs warmth and insulation from the elements.
It comes with reflective tape for visibility and a zippered closure allowing for easy on/off.
Available in Granite Gray, Burnt Orange and Purple Dusk and 6 sizes (XXS - XL).
RRP from $86.50.
For details, visit vetnpetdirect.com.au
Don't let the weather get in the way of you and your dog having a fun outdoor adventure!
Built with a super soft, non-pilling but super warm fleece, this EzyDog Element Jacket will keep your dog warm during the colder winter months.
The outer shell is made from 600 denier Ripstop, making it completely wind and shower proof. With its lightweight design this dog jacket is also perfect during our warmer, stormy months and it really has been built with all the elements in mind.
With full chest support, the Element Jacket stays in place during the most energetic walks and play.
Available in sizes from XS to 2XL.
RRP from $50.95.
For details, visit www.ezydog.com.au
Perfect for those in-between days when it's not so warm, but still not freezing and sport is a must.
The outer covering of the ROGZ Sportskin Skinz is made from Polyester and Spandex, a polyurethane membrane lies between the outer shell and the soft polyester lining which helps keep your dog warm and dry from the wind and rain.
Also features reflective piping to make your dog visible in bad light from every angle which is a great safety feature in the dark and the rain! The Sportskin is harness compatible and you can adjust the waterproof zip on the back of the dog coat.
The Sportskin is made from very durable material that is windproof, waterproof and breathable at the same time. The coat has a darker under carriage so dirt is not as visible.
Available in 9 sizes for that perfect fit.
RRP from $49.20 at d4dogz.com.au
Made using their famous Cotton Oilskin fabric, your dog can now enjoy the same quality, long-lasting raincoat that you do.
The Apsley Cotton Dog Coat - Brown will keep your dog warm and dry in the wettest and windiest conditions.
The Apsley has handy storage pockets, adjustable straps under the stomach and around the neck, and is lined with lightweight, breathable cotton.
The Ashfield Wool Dog Coat - Brown is a heavier version perfect for the chilly winter months.
Available in 7 sizes from XXS to XXL.
RRP: $99.95 from drizabone.com.au
Designed by Lyndsay Drago (New York), this coat is handmade from a khaki brown (not orange) waterproof waxed canvas with navy, blue, khaki brown plaid wool lining. Other features include a harness hole in the centre back for compatibility with leads, Velcro closures at the neck and stomach, and a collar that can be stylishly flipped to reveal a pop of the internal fabric.
Ideal for cold and clear conditions, your dog can use this lightweight and breathable coat for bush walking, trail running, in-town excursions... any time your dog needs warmth and insulation from the elements.
It comes with reflective tape for visibility and a zippered closure allowing for easy on/off.
Available in Granite Gray, Burnt Orange and Purple Dusk and 6 sizes (XXS - XL).
RRP from $86.50.
For details, visit vetnpetdirect.com.au
Don't let the weather get in the way of you and your dog having a fun outdoor adventure!
The outer shell is made from 600 denier Ripstop, making it completely wind and shower proof. With its lightweight design this dog jacket is also perfect during our warmer, stormy months and it really has been built with all the elements in mind.
With full chest support, the Element Jacket stays in place during the most energetic walks and play.
Available in sizes from XS to 2XL.
RRP from $50.95.
For details, visit www.ezydog.com.au
Perfect for those in-between days when it's not so warm, but still not freezing and sport is a must.
The outer covering of the ROGZ Sportskin Skinz is made from Polyester and Spandex, a polyurethane membrane lies between the outer shell and the soft polyester lining which helps keep your dog warm and dry from the wind and rain.
Also features reflective piping to make your dog visible in bad light from every angle which is a great safety feature in the dark and the rain! The Sportskin is harness compatible and you can adjust the waterproof zip on the back of the dog coat.
The Sportskin is made from very durable material that is windproof, waterproof and breathable at the same time. The coat has a darker under carriage so dirt is not as visible.
Available in 9 sizes for that perfect fit.
RRP from $49.20 at d4dogz.com.au
The Apsley Cotton Dog Coat - Brown will keep your dog warm and dry in the wettest and windiest conditions.
The Apsley has handy storage pockets, adjustable straps under the stomach and around the neck, and is lined with lightweight, breathable cotton.
The Ashfield Wool Dog Coat - Brown is a heavier version perfect for the chilly winter months.
Available in 7 sizes from XXS to XXL.
RRP: $99.95 from drizabone.com.au
The Billy Wolf Camp waterproof dog coat is perfect for camping and keeping your canine pal warm this winter.
Designed by Lyndsay Drago (New York), this coat is handmade from a khaki brown (not orange) waterproof waxed canvas with navy, blue, khaki brown plaid wool lining. Other features include a harness hole in the centre back for compatibility with leads, Velcro closures at the neck and stomach, and a collar that can be stylishly flipped to reveal a pop of the internal fabric.
The Camp designer dog coat can be reversed, giving you two jackets for the price of one! This is a ‘must have’ in every canine’s wardrobe this season.
Available in sizes from XS to XL.
RRP: $77-$88 from lavishtails.com.au
Your best friend deserves to be toasty and dry this winter in a Didgeridoonas Oilskin Coat, fully lined with wool blanketing.
This coat is designed to be adjustable around your dog's neck and body. The brown oilskin can be lined with tartan wool in either Blackwatch (navy/green) or Royal Stewart (red).
It is fully washable using a wool and oilskin detergent. The oilskin can be re-proofed using a spray in the event of the coat losing its water repellency (both products available from Didgeridoonas).
Available in 5 sizes from XXS to Large.
RRP: $39.95-$59.95 from didgeridoonas.com.au
Every "pawson" needs that staple black sweater they can wear on special occasions or just out to lunch with fur friends!
The unisex Kehena Sweater by Miyow & Barkley is hand made in a luxurious thick ‘man made wool’, with a signature cable design on the back.
This is the first in the range to feature a turtle neck that can be rolled down or left up for extra warmth.
Miyow & Barkley knits are designed to allow both male and female pawsons to use the bathroom conveniently.
Available in sizes from XSmall up to 3Xlarge.
RRP from $55 at www.miyowandbarkley.com
Shake off winter's chill and step into the warmth with the heavenly soft alpaca of the Pink Sweethearts Alpaca Dog Sweater from Alqo Wasi! Your dog will look absolutely adorable with this unique and stylish sweater.
This cable knit jumper is hypoallergenic and lanolin free; it does not absorb or retain moisture and is often wearable even by dogs who are allergic to wool.
Alpaca fibre is seven times stronger and three times warmer than merino wool. Alpaca is silky against the skin and heavenly smooth to the touch. Available in 6 sizes (XXS to XL).
RRP: $54-$64 from dogue.com.au
Available in sizes from XS to XL.
RRP: $77-$88 from lavishtails.com.au
Your best friend deserves to be toasty and dry this winter in a Didgeridoonas Oilskin Coat, fully lined with wool blanketing.
This coat is designed to be adjustable around your dog's neck and body. The brown oilskin can be lined with tartan wool in either Blackwatch (navy/green) or Royal Stewart (red).
It is fully washable using a wool and oilskin detergent. The oilskin can be re-proofed using a spray in the event of the coat losing its water repellency (both products available from Didgeridoonas).
Available in 5 sizes from XXS to Large.
RRP: $39.95-$59.95 from didgeridoonas.com.au
Every "pawson" needs that staple black sweater they can wear on special occasions or just out to lunch with fur friends!
The unisex Kehena Sweater by Miyow & Barkley is hand made in a luxurious thick ‘man made wool’, with a signature cable design on the back.
This is the first in the range to feature a turtle neck that can be rolled down or left up for extra warmth.
Miyow & Barkley knits are designed to allow both male and female pawsons to use the bathroom conveniently.
Available in sizes from XSmall up to 3Xlarge.
RRP from $55 at www.miyowandbarkley.com
This cable knit jumper is hypoallergenic and lanolin free; it does not absorb or retain moisture and is often wearable even by dogs who are allergic to wool.
Alpaca fibre is seven times stronger and three times warmer than merino wool. Alpaca is silky against the skin and heavenly smooth to the touch. Available in 6 sizes (XXS to XL).
RRP: $54-$64 from dogue.com.au
Huskimo is an Australian brand that develops quality but affordable fashion ranges of dog jumpers and coats suitable for the Australian climate.
The Argyle dog jumper is designed for comfort and warmth and comes in Marine (featured) and Lavender.
This jumper is quick and easy to put on and off. It is machine washable for easy care.
designed by Coco & Pud in Australia and is hand knitted to the highest standards.
This is a classic style with gorgeous scarf detailing.
When only the best will do to spoil your pampered pet, this sweater allows any dog to dress up, or just keep snuggly warm.
Available in a wide range of sizes (XXXS to XXXL) to fit any pet.
RRP: $20-$36 from cocoandpud.com.au
These Puppia Nitty Gritty Navy socks are especially designed for smaller dogs.
This fluffy Sciarpa neck warmer by Sasha & Me will keep your pooch warm and stylish during the winter months.
Made from grey faux fur with a black knitted stretchable inner lining for a comfortable fit.
Made from grey faux fur with a black knitted stretchable inner lining for a comfortable fit.
Available in 3 sizes (S-M-L).
Made from 90% cotton, they have a stripe pattern and with their non-skid bottom they are perfect for timber and slippery floors.
These dog socks are double cinched for a secure fit but the tops can be rolled up or down (these are great for dogs with thin legs) depending on your needs.
Available in 3 sizes (S-M-L).
RRP: $15.40 (set of 4) at d4dogz.com.au
Neo-Paws are the makers of the original K9 running shoe and offer four styles of shoes for all season protection.
Their winter & water Regular Performance shoes are built with toe caps and reinforced heels for extreme durability.
The upper is a water-resistant neoprene and the sole is made of an injection moulded rubber for added strength. These are ideal for swimming and to protect pool liners, or simply for walking and mild running, in rain or snow.
Recommended by veterinarians worldwide, they can offer comfort to dogs suffering from hip dysplasia, arthritis, allergies or dragging paws.
Available in Blue, Red, Pink, Hunter Green and 14 sizes (XXXS to XXL).
RRP from US$22 (set of 2). For details, visit neopaws.com
Note: Shoes are sold in PAIRS = 2 shoes since your dog's rear paws may be smaller and need to be measured separately.
