Whether it is to keep your pooch from freezing stone-cold when you go out for a stroll on a windy and chilly day or simply want your pet dog to wear something more casual yet sporty for its first photo shoot, a doggie sweater should be perfect for the task. And if you’re still lost about where to look for the best dog sweaters, we took it upon ourselves to search far and wide to bring some of the best in the market today. Here they are.
The 15 Top-Rated Dog Sweaters
1 Gooby Fleece Dog Sweater
Gooby’s Every Day Fleece Cold Weather Dog Vest is the perfect winter apparel for your favorite pooch. It is devoid of any unnecessary ornaments or bling that serve nothing but to irritate your pooch. What the Gooby has is good old 100% polyester that gives it exceptional warmth unlike other materials. You cannot get anything more comfortable than polyester.
Additionally, Gooby comes in 17 different color variations which, when combined with 5 different sizes, can provide you with an amazing selection. Do understand that the Gooby is more like a vest than it is a sweater, so don’t expect your pet’s legs to be fully covered as well. This also gives Gooby an everyday design utility. It’s fully machine-washable and already comes with an O-ring attachment for your dog’s leash. This makes Gooby a comfy doggie body harness, too.
If you love the Blueberry Classic but wish there were more designs to choose from, then its Vintage Fair Isle or Lopi Designer Dog Sweater line should be the perfect choice. Available in 6 different warm and lovable colors and patterns as well as 5 different sizes, the Blueberry Vintage comes with the classic turtleneck giving your pooch timeless elegance in its winter wear. And if that is not enough, a hole has been integrated into the back panel of the Vintage Fair to allow for the slipping of your dog’s leash or harness so you can easily put on a doggie collar or a harness underneath the Blueberry Vintage Fair. Blueberry Pet says that the Vintage Fair is primarily designed for male pooches although we can assure these will look lovely on females, too.
3 Zack & Zoey Basic Hoodie For Dogs
If you want a more classic take on the dog hoodie, then Zack & Zoey’s Basic Hoodie for Dogs should fit the bill perfectly. With 13 different colors and 6 sizes to choose from your pooch is sure to be the talk of the ‘hood. Unlike the Gooby that comes off as a sleeveless winter wear, Zack & Zoey’s doggie apparel comes with short sleeves plus the classic kangaroo pocket on the back of the shirt. At least, even if your pooch will not be able to slip its legs through the kangaroo pocket it does make for a nifty storage compartment for its treats for that on-the-go snacking.
The only lament, if any, is the absence of an O-ring attachment so you cannot really transform the Zack & Zoey into a doggie harness. Nevertheless, for its cute and comfy design, we’re pretty sure a lot of pooches will look cooler wearing this.
4 Chilly Dog Boyfriend Sweater
With the American flag carefully stitched onto the back panel of the Chilly Dog Boyfriend Dog Sweater, this is one doggie winter apparel that you’d be proud to put on your pooch. Each Chilly Dog is knit by hand by Quechuan Indians, providing exceptional craftsmanship to the apparel that will keep your dog warm and toasty. What really makes it exceptional is the use of 100% wool in its fabrication, giving it unparalleled warmth and something that thin- or short- coated pooches will truly appreciate. However, since it is made of wool, you’d have to pay extra attention in its washing to help preserve the integrity of the fibers.
5 Kuoser Plaid Dog Sweater
Made of premium quality blend of terylene, cotton, and polyester giving it exceptional softness and water-resistant outer layer, the Kuoser Cozy British Style Plaid Dog Vest is the perfect doggie winter apparel. It also boasts of polyester fiber filling which helps in heat retention while keeping the cold out. It also comes with adjustable Velcro system for a more secure fit on your pooch.
Technically, the Kuoser comes off as a highly durable and very fashionable doggie wear that we really couldn’t blame pet parents who make the Kuoser as part of their dog’s everyday garment. It’s lightweight, water-repellent, and wind-proof, too so your dog actually gets the best of both worlds in terms of style and functionality.
6 Blueberry Pet Wool Blend Dog Sweater
It’s cozy, hip, and very stylish. Which pet parent wouldn’t want to put the Blueberry Pet Classic Cable Knit Dog Sweater on their canine friends? Fabricated from 100% acrylic yarn, the Blueberry Classic provides exceptionally soft colors in 6 different sizing schemes that represent more the dog’s overall back length in inches instead of the usual small-to-XL sizes. The lovely colors alone make the Blueberry Classic such an adorable winter wear to put onto your pooch. It fits perfectly and comes off as fully machine-washable, too. The sweater-like texture gives it a more elegant look than a plain-looking shirt.
7 CHBORLESS Dog Classic Knitwear Sweater Warm
Made with a soft fleece material, this is one of the best dog sweaters on the market, today. Perfect for keeping your smaller dog or toy breed nice a snuggly in the colder months, or simply the colder states, this open is affordable and effective.
Coming in a wide range of different sizes and colors, these sweaters are ideal for adding a touch of chic to your dog’s winter wardrobe, without breaking the bank. Simple in design, the dog sweaters are appealing to a wide range of pet parents, while the longer back won’t ride up – all while keeping your pup warm
8 PAWZ Road Plaid Dog Sweater
If you love the classic checkered look of many truck drivers, outdoor adventurers, and even those working in the woods and backcountry, then you will love the way Pawz Road designed its Plaid Shirt Coat Hoodie Pet Winter Clothes. While the pattern is not really checkered per se, it does provide for such a look because of the alternating dark and light bands of black on red or blue background.
Sadly, it only comes in either red or blue so if you’re looking for another color, you’d definitely have to look elsewhere. There are also 6 sizes to choose from. The Pawz Road comes with a thermally insulated inner layer, keeping your pooch protected from the bitter cold.
9 Fitwarm Knitted Sweater For Dogs
There’s a certain charm with knitted fabric that can never really be replicated in synthetic doggie clothes. With the Fitwarm Knitted Sweatshirts for Dogs you can feel more confident about what you are wrapping over your pooch’s body. It’s soft and comfy, making it the ideal wear not only for the cold days but also on photo-shoots. In fact, the Fitwarm sweatshirt can be so comfy that your pooch would want to wear them whenever it ventures outside your house. It’s got faux fur edging further giving it a more luxurious look and feel. If you feel like giving your canine friend a more edgy look on those cold days, Fitwarms’s sweatshirts might very well be the doggie clothing you’re looking for.
Keeping your pooch warm and comfy on steely-cold days can be made super-easy with the right doggie sweater. While these are primarily indicated for cold weather use, their actual applications are limited only by your imagination. So go on and let your pooch strut its stuff around the neighborhood, at the park, in the mall, or anywhere else you may want to go with any of these dog sweaters we just shared with you.
10 Frisco Dog & Cat Cable Knitted Sweater
Available in five color options and seven (yes, seven) sizes to suit almost any pup, these super cute dog sweaters have a classic cable-knit design reminiscent of something your grandma might have made – giving them a sweet personal feel. Thanks to you the tremendous size range, even large dogs can take advantage of this delightful sweater in the chilly weather, seeing as not all dogs have a thick double coat to keep them warm.
Finding the right dog sweater for your pup can be tricky if you’re trying to find something that will both fit and move comfortably for them throughout the day. But fortunately, this sweater design is not overly bulky for your four-legged friend, giving them the freedom to move with ease whilst providing them with a cozy layer to keep their body heat regulated.
11 GF Pet Chalet Dog Sweater
This adorable turtle-neck style sweater is perfect for maintaining the body head of small breed dogs, particularly in harshly cold climates. The thick folded turtle neck provides your pup with an extra layer and extra warmth in an exposed area – much like a scarf for humans, whilst the body covering allows freedom of movement with thigh-hugging front leg openings and a loose fit back-end for maneuverability.
Much like the Frisco faux-wool sweater, this GF sweater emulates the classic cable-knit pattern that we know and love. Additionally, GF has utilized an excellent quality soft acrylic-based wood material for added durability and longevity. Just be mindful that when you was this sweater, you keep it away from the dryer as it could shrink.
12 Chilly Dog Charcoal Striped Wool Dog Sweater
This sweater is a must-have item for anyone looking to add a little whimsey to their dog’s wardrobe! With brightly colored stripes that can be spotted from a distance, your dog will not only look adorable but stand out in the crowd, making them easy to spot at the dog park. What’s more, these sweaters are offered in a fantastic range of sizes!
This is a top-quality sweater made using organic wool, following fair trade guidelines. So you know that you’re getting exactly what you pay for with this gorgeous, warming accessory. The neckline is made to fit easily over your dog’s head, whilst also hugging their neck for a touch of added warmth whilst out of that daily walk. Just be mindful that you hand wash this sweater at a cool temperature, as hand washing will prevent unwanted shrinkage, which is common with organic wool.
13 GF Pet Alpine Dog Sweater
Available in a subtle grey, or bold orange design, this GF sweater is available in a massive range of sizes making it great for both small dogs up to extra large breeds and as a result has easily made its way onto our list of the best dog sweaters on the market. Furthermore, the fitted turtle neck provides your pooch with some added protection that can help not only to keep them cozy in the winter, but he supports respiratory function in cold conditions.
GF is a brand known for quality, as well as being vegan friendly with the use of acrylic wool as opposed to organic. They’re also known for inclusivity, with nine sizes to choose from. They don’t discriminate against larger breeds that are more likely to have thicker fur, as large breed dogs can also develop health problems that may warrant the additional support that a sweater provides.
14 Frisco Bear Hooded Dog Hoodie
The Frisco bear-style dog hoodie is among the best dog sweaters on our list when it comes to novelty. This dog hoodie is available for both big dogs and smaller breeds, with seven sizes for you to choose from, with a soft sherpa-lined good to keep your dog’s noggin and ears warm. The hood itself is not the novelty aspect, as a hood can be highly effective at helping a dog to maintain its body heat. However, the adorable bear-like ears poking from the top of it are sure to make any passer-by smile.
This durable, comfortable, cozy, and flexible sweater is machine washable, however, it’s recommended that it be air-dried to prevent the sherpa from matting in the heat of the dryer. Though some might think the hood would get in the way during a walk, this sweater-hoodie is actually designed with a hole at the back of the back to allow the leash to pass through uninterrupted.
15 STAR WARS THE MANDALORIAN GROGU
An Adorable sweater with a somewhat festive feel, this Mandalorian-themed sweater takes the cake when it comes to novelty designs! With a sweet-yet-true print of the well-known idiom “the best things come in small packages”, this is a great choice for Star Wars and dog lovers everywhere! Not only does it have an adorable design, but the brightly colored stripes will ensure that you can easily spot your dog wherever they run.
Made from durable acrylic wool, it’s made to last, and machine-washable. However, try to keep to air-drying to avoid unwanted shrinkage. The pullover style and turtle neck help to keep your pup toasty warm without the worry of it coming undone or falling away during the day, with a leash access hole at the back of the neck so you don’t have to worry about messing with the sweater when it’s time to go for a walk.
Best Dog Sweaters: Buying Guide & FAQs
More than just a fashion accessory, a dog sweater is also a necessary item during the cooler seasons. Our buying guide and FAQ section below further outline some necessary things to consider when purchasing dog sweaters.
What to Look for in Dog Sweaters
Size
Most of us wouldn’t go out to buy a pair of jeans two sizes up or down; in the same vein, your furry friend will also require the right fit. Be sure to only opt for a sweater that isn’t too tight or too loose – you will only be wasting your time, as your pooch might refuse to get it on. If you have a large breed dog, opt for manufacturers that offer large dog sweater sizes.
Style
Dogs might not be concerned with making fashion statements, but the style of the sweater says a lot about the dog owner. A part of getting good value for money is ensuring the sweater is both stylish and suitable for your doggy.
Comfort
Be sure to purchase sweaters that provide significant comfort to your pup. Most dogs will not waste time hinting at their discomfort. Also, remember that pups that love the indoors will have different comfort demands compared to those that spend considerable time out in the cold; hence why you should buy appropriately.
Durability
Of course, the durability of the sweaters must be considered. This essentially means that the fabric and overall design must be easily washable. You don’t want to be wasting money, purchasing a new puppy sweater too soon after the last one was bought.
Why You Should Buy Your Dog a Winter Sweater
Here’s why you should consider getting your dog a winter sweater:
- Although most dogs have fur, some are lighter on fur than others. Dogs with lighter fur will definitely benefit from additional layers during winter. You may also like our article in winter coats for dogs.
- As dogs get older and their immune systems become weaker, they have less resistance against diseases. Getting an older dog a winter sweater will not only help it keep warm during winter but will also ensure its health is well-maintained.
- Some dog breeds, irrespective of their age, do not do well against the cold. Breeds such as the Greyhound are more susceptible to cold, and will also benefit from additional layers during winter.
Sources:
- Do Dogs Need Sweaters in Winter?, PetMD
- Dr. Marty Becker, Do Any Dogs Really Need Sweaters or Coats?, Vetstreet
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. By reason of their size, small dogs tend to dissipate heat faster than larger ones. This makes them get cold more easily than their bigger counterparts.
After purchasing a sweater that meets your dog’s size, it might take a little time for your pup to get accustomed to it. Training is the only way around a reluctant pet; therefore, be sure to keep a few treats in hand and shower it with praises as you attempt to put the sweater on. Remember that some dogs are just not going to be comfortable in a sweater – which is only natural; so if all else fails, it just isn’t for your pup.
There are quite a number of observations to make to help one determine when a dog is cold. Some of these signs include:
- Hunched posture with a tucked tail
- Seeks a place of shelter
- Shivering
- Whining
- Reluctance to keep walking
- Ears are cold to touch
- Constantly lifting its paws
