Updated: 12/30/23
Do you struggle to find a winter coat for your dog that both keeps them warm and allows you to walk them using a harness? You can now get a winter coat with a harness hole in them to provide you with easy access to the leash attachment of the harness.
This post will help you find the best winter coat with a harness hole for your dog, providing you with information on what to look for when choosing the best coat for your dog and tips for measuring your dog for the proper fit. It is possible to find a stylish, yet practical winter dog coat for your pup!
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Related: Best Dog Booties For Winter, The Best Winter Coat For Your Dog
What Is A Winter Coat With A Harness Hole?
A winter coat with a harness hole is a winter coat that can be worn over the harness you use to walk your dog. What makes it different from other winter jackets is that there is a hole cut out on the back that allows you to hook a leash onto your dog’s harness for walks.
Can A Dog Wear A Harness And A Coat?
Absolutely! The key to using a winter coat with a harness hole is making sure that the leash attachment on your harness and the opening on the jacket match up. This may lead to you having to try different types of costs before you find the one best for you and your dog.
Do Dogs Really Need A Coat In Winter?
Determining if your dog needs a winter coat is dependent on a number of factors:
- Is your dog a small breed dog?
- Do they have a single coat or are they groomed to have short hair?
- Are they puppies or senior dogs?
- Do they have a medical condition or are they sick?
- Are they a short breed where their bellies may touch the snow when walking?
- Are they acclimated to cold weather?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then your dog could probably benefit from wearing a winter coat.
Do Dogs Benefit From Wearing A Winter Coat?
Yes! Dogs can definitely benefit from wearing a winter coat. A winter coat can:
- Keeping them warm when out on walks.
- Helps keep them dry when out in damp weather.
- Protects their bellies from getting wet while in the snow.
- Allows them to stay outside longer if they are the type that likes to play outside in the snow.
How Do I Know If My Dog Is Cold?
Most dogs begin to feel uncomfortable in temperatures below 45 degrees F (7.2 degrees C). Dogs should not be outside for long periods of time once the temperature reaches 32 degrees F (0 degrees C).
Signs that your dog is cold may include:
- Shivering.
- Lifting their paws.
- Seeking out a warm place.
- Whining.
Is It Ok To Leave A Coat On A Dog?
It is ok to leave a coat on a dog for a few hours as long as they are comfortable in it and can move freely in it.
How Do I Measure My Dog To Find The Right Fitting Winter Coat With A Harness Hole?
It is best to measure your dog according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Generally speaking, these are the measurements you’ll need to get from your dog.
Before starting, you will need a proper tape measure. If you don’t have a paper tape measure, you can use a piece of string to wrap around each area and then measure the string.
There are three areas you will most likely need to measure: the neck circumference, chest circumference, and the length of your dog.
Neck
To measure your dog’s neck, place the tape measure around the circumference of your dog’s neck. Allow enough room for two fingers to fit underneath the tape measure.
Chest
To measure the chest girth of your dog, look for the widest part of their chest. Generally, this should be behind their front legs. Once you have this measurement, add 2 inches.
Length
To measure your dog’s length, start at the base of your dog’s neck (where it meets the shoulders) and run the tape measure to the base of your dog’s tail. Again, add two inches.
Adding two inches to these measurements should ensure the coat is not too snug and allows for adjustments to be made for a good fit. If the harness your dog will be wearing is thick, you may want to add a few more inches to account for that.
What Should I Look For When Purchasing A Winter Coat With A Harness Hole?
When looking for a winter coat for your pup, there are some things you may want to look for:
- Material. Look for a material that is durable, yet breathable.
- Closure. What is the mechanism used to secure the coat? Some use Velcro, some use snaps, others use a buckle.
- Easy On/Off. Some coats go over your dog’s head, others may require your dog to step into it.
- Waterproof/Water Resistant. This will help keep your dog dry in rain and snow.
- Harness Hole. Where is the harness hole located? Does it match where the leash attachment is on your harness? Also check the size of the opening and compare it to your harness.
- Lining. Look for a jacket that is lined to help keep your pup warm.
- Reflective Stitching/Piping. Reflective stitches can help your pup be better seen at night.
- Machine Washable. Easy cleaning can make a huge difference, especially if your dog likes to frolic in snow/mud.
- Hood. Some coats come with a hood to keep your dog’s neck and ears warm.
- Lightweight. If the jacket is too heavy, it will weigh your dog down and make it difficult for them to move around.
- Adjustable. Look for a winter coat that allows for adjustment. This will ensure it fits your dog well. You want the coat to fit snugly without being tight and restrictive.
Your dog should be able to move around freely and not be restricted in any movements when wearing the coat.
Best Winter Coat With A Harness Hole
These are our top 5 choices for a winter coat with a harness hole. As mentioned above, you may need to try a few before finding the perfect fit for your dog.
Product information is according to the manufacturer.
Best Combination Winter Coat With A Harness Hole
GF Pet Creekside Insulated Dog Snowsuit
This snowsuit has detachable legs so it can be worn as a winter coat as well.
- Available in multiple sizes.
- Detachable pants that are extendable, so can be worn as a snowsuit or a coat.
- Elasto-Fit technology that conforms to your dog’s shape.
- Insulated polar fleece lining.
- Water resistant.
- Reflective details.
- Faux pockets.
- Vegan fur trimmed hood.
- Leash opening for collars and harnesses.
- Machine wash/hang dry.
Pros/Cons:
- Easy on/off.
- Good quality.
- Stays in place.
- Hood stays in place if Velcro it back.
- Warm.
- Fits different sized/shaped dogs well.
Best Winter Coat With A Harness Hole For Short Haired Dogs
Hurtta Expedition Insulated Dog Parka
This coat is designed specifically for short haired dogs and pups without an undercoat, but any dog can benefit from it.
- Available in multiple sizes.
- Comes in various colors.
- Made for dogs with short hair or no undercoat.
- Waterproof.
- Breathable.
- Windproof.
- Secures with a buckle around the waist.
- Back length, neckline, and collar are adjustable.
- Opening for a harness on the back that can be closed with snaps.
- Reflective piping.
- Machine washable.
Pros/Cons:
- Fits well.
- Warm.
- Easy on/off.
- Stays in place.
- Good quality.
Best Down Alternative Winter Coat With A Harness Hole
Canada Pooch Everest Explorer Premium Faux Down Insulated Dog Jacket
This winter coat has 2 Velcro closures for a secure fit and also has pockets.
- Retractable hood.
- Pockets.
- Insulating faux down lining.
- Faux fur trim.
- Covers neck, shoulders, chest, and back.
- 2 Velcro closures.
- Easy access opening for a leash in the back.
- Water resistant.
- Machine washable.
Pros/Cons:
- Easy on/off.
- Good quality.
- Warm.
Best Winter Coat With A Harness Hole With A Buckle Closure
Petglad Dog Winter Coat
This coat uses 2 plastic buckles to secure it, making this a good choice if your dog doesn’t like Velcro.
- Available in multiple sizes.
- Comes in a variety of colors.
- Waterproof.
- Reflective stripes in the back.
- Secured with 2 plastic buckles.
- Adjustable buckles for a secure fit.
- Fleece lining.
- Made of ripstop material.
- High fleece collar.
- Harness hole with zipper.
Pros/Cons:
- Warm.
- Reflects well.
- Long enough to cover dogs.
- Easy on/off.
- Runs small.
Best Winter Puffer Jacket With A Harness Hole
HDE Dog Puffer Jacket
This coat uses 2 Velcro straps to secure it and is made of lightweight, breathable material.
- Available in multiple sizes.
- Comes in a variety of colors.
- Fleece lined.
- 2 velcro straps at neck and belly.
- Faux fur trimmed hood.
- Lightweight.
- Breathable.
- Water resistant.
- Leash hole on back.
Pros/Cons:
- Fits well.
- Easy on/off.
- Warm.
- Velcro is strong.
A winter coat with a harness hole can provide your dog with warmth and style while being practical. A coat with a harness opening can allow you to enjoy the time on your walks with your pup, while keeping them cozy and wet-free in the winter weather.
Please check out our other posts on Health, Indoor, Outdoor, and Travel accessories for your dog, as well as Reviews of various products and travel destinations.