Raincoat size for your dog
How to measure a dog raincoat correctly: Size guide for dog clothing
Do you want your four-legged friend protected from rain, wind, and cool temperatures? With the right size, a dog raincoat will fit comfortably, won't chafe, and will reliably keep your dog dry. In this guide, we'll show you how to correctly determine the right size for dog clothing – using the popular Hurtta Monsoon Coat II ECO as a clear example.
Why a raincoat is useful for dogs
- Health & Comfort: Wetness cools muscles and joints – especially in short-haired, older, or sensitive dogs.
- Cleanliness: Significantly less dirt and odor after the walk, faster drying.
- Visibility & Safety: Reflective details increase visibility at dusk.
- Equipment protection: Harnesses/collars stay drier and more comfortable to wear under the coat.
Tip: When buying raincoats, pay attention to information about water column, breathability, fit in the shoulder area, and adjustable closures.
How to measure your dog correctly (3 measurements)
- Back length: Stand the dog upright. Measure from the withers (the point where the neck meets the back, not the collar) to the base of the tail . This is the primary measurement for coats.
- Neck circumference: Measure at the widest part of the neck, where the collar sits.
- Chest girth: Measure directly behind the front legs at the widest part of the chest
Pro tip: The tape measure should fit snugly, but not dig in. Ideally, measure twice and use the larger size. If your dog falls between two sizes, choose the larger size for a strong chest, and the smaller size for a petite build.
Practical example: Hurtta Monsoon Coat II ECO
The Hurtta Monsoon Coat II ECO is a high-quality, waterproof, and breathable raincoat made from recycled materials. It features multiple adjustments at the neck, back, and chest, making it easy to fine-tune the size .
How to use the table correctly
- Choose the back length as a starting point (e.g. 45 cm ⇒ size 45/18 ).
- Check that the dog's neck and chest circumference are within the specified ranges.
- Thanks to the adjustment options, the coat can be finely adjusted – but your dog should still lie within the mentioned ranges.
Example: back length 42 cm, neck 38 cm, chest 52 cm → size 45/18 usually fits best.
Fit check after putting on
- Two fingers fit between the chest strap and the body.
- Shoulders and elbows have free movement, nothing rubs in the armpits.
- The mantle ends before the base of the tail (do not let it extend beyond this).
- When running, the coat remains stable without slipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I care for a dog raincoat?
After wet rides, wipe down quickly and let dry. Wash regularly according to the care label (without fabric softener) to maintain breathability and waterproofness.
Which dogs need special protection?
Short-haired breeds, seniors, very slim dogs, puppies and animals with sensitive health benefit most from additional weather protection.
Is back length alone enough to choose the size?
No. Back length is the guideline, but without comparing the neck and chest measurements, you risk chafing or too much looseness. Always check all three measurements.