Most dog coats don't get returned because of the color or style. They get returned because the size was a guess.
The three measurements that actually matter
- Back length: from the base of the neck (where a collar sits) to the base of the tail
- Chest girth: the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs
- Neck girth: around the base of the neck, where a collar would sit
Measure with a soft tape, standing, and add a little slack, not skin tight. A coat that's too snug restricts movement and rubs under the front legs.
Coat length isn't the same as dog size
A long backed breed and a short, stocky breed of the same weight often need different sizes. If your dog is between two sizes, size up for a thicker jumper underneath on the coldest days, or size down for a snugger everyday fit.
Signs a coat doesn't fit
- Gaping at the chest or neck
- Rubbing or hair loss under the front legs after a few wears
- Your dog stops moving normally, or tries to shake it off
Our Waterproof Metallic Puffer Dog Jacket runs true to size from S to XXL, so matching your two measurements above to the chart gets you the right fit on the first order, with a waterproof outer layer for wet, cold days.
For wet weather without the extra padding, the same measurements apply when choosing our Waterproof Reflective Dog Raincoat, which uses a similar poncho style cut.
Frequently asked questions
Do dogs really need a coat in Australian winters?
Short haired, small, senior, or short legged dogs often do, especially in southern regions. Thick coated breeds usually don't need one for mild cold.
How do I know if a coat is too warm for my dog?
Watch for excessive panting or reluctance to walk in it. A light layer that traps some warmth without overheating is usually right for most Australian winters.
Take five minutes with the tape measure before you order. It saves the back and forth of a return, and your dog gets a coat that actually works on the first cold walk. Once it fits, our harness sizing guide uses the same chest measurement if you need a harness to go over it. Browse the full Apparel collection for more.