Ruff Wear K-9 Overcoat

January 20, 2011 6:06 pm | By Zootoo Editor Melba B.

I resisted buying a coat for my dog for a long time. He's a hearty hunting dog, after all. And he and I agree that clothes on dogs aren't necessary. But he's also a shorthair, and I noticed when the temperature dropped, his appetite for outdoor play often exceeded his ability to keep himself warm — especially in wet and/or windy conditions. And seeing his skin turn red with cold made me worry about his health.

The Ruff Wear K-9 Overcoat pairs a wind-resistant recycled polyester shell with a recycled fleece inner layer for double protection. And it has reflective piping along the sides and back for easy visibility. It slips over your dog's head easily, and has side buckles which secure the front panel over his chest to keep him warm and snug.

Just introducing this coat to my dog's cold-weather "wardrobe" made a huge difference. Especially in sleet or snow, he is noticeably more comfortable for a longer period of time. The coat is very well constructed, easy to put on and take off and it is generously cut to allow him to run, jump and frolic easily.

Wrapping up: in several winter outings — from walking in flurries to snowshoeing in a blizzard, the Ruff Wear K-9 Overcoat has held its own. It's easy to wash and has, so far, shown no signs of wear. If you're looking for an extra layer for your best friend's outdoor adventures, this is a good bet. But, if you need something to keep your pooch warm both indoors and out, you may find that the Ruff Wear Climate Changer or Orvis Original Fleece Dog Warmer may be more versatile.

Pros: Durable, easy to clean, provides extra visibility.

Cons: Less suitable for indoor-to-outdoor use.