Five of the best dog coats to keep working gundogs warm and dry

Equafleece dog jumper

From £20
equafleece.co.uk

Made in Devon for around 25 years, this pull-on fleece jumper is aimed squarely at working gundogs, both as a drying garment after wet work and as a warm layer in cold weather. According to the maker, the lightweight, stretchy fabric is fully rainproof, breathable and as warm as a four-tog duvet, with body heat pushing moisture through to the outside so the dog dries quickly.

There are no straps or buckles to rub or catch, five width fittings suit everything from lean to heavily built dogs, and it is machine washable at 40°C. It ends at the waist, leaving the hindquarters uncovered, and fleece readily collects burrs and seeds in rough, brambly cover. Twenty colours available.

Ruff & Tumble Country Dog drying coat

From £51.95
ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

This drying coat provides a practical solution for managing wet and muddy dogs after outdoor activities or bath time. Constructed from double-thickness, natural, and breathable cotton towelling, the robe features a dual-layer design that efficiently wicks moisture away while keeping dogs warm and comfortable.

Designed for full coverage, the coat incorporates an extra-wide belly flap alongside an extra-deep, adjustable collar that folds up into a hood to dry the head and ears. The coat secures easily around the neck and belly using Velcro fasteners, helping to prevent wet dog odours, shivering and mess in cars or homes. Available in sizes suitable for all breeds, the snug fit can also offer a calming effect during stressful events such as fireworks.

Sporting Saint towelling drying dog coat

From £45
sportingsaint.co.uk

This towelling drying coat for dogs is a British-made robe intended to dry gundogs after wet fieldwork, water retrieves or rainy walks. Two layers of cotton towelling absorb moisture from the dog’s coat, while Velcro fastenings at the neck and girth allow the fit to be adjusted. The maker claims it removes roughly 80% of the wetness in about 20 minutes, though that is an average figure and results will inevitably vary with coat type and conditions. It is machine washable at 40°C or below.

It should save time towelling by hand and keep vehicles and kennels cleaner on shoot days. Bear in mind it is a drying aid rather than a waterproof coat, so it offers little protection while the rain is still falling. Cotton towelling also holds water, meaning a soaked coat will need drying itself before reuse, and Velcro fastenings can collect hair and debris.

Dog & Field Dual Layer Olive Towelling Coat

£39.99
dogandfield.co.uk

As the shooting season gathers pace, it isn’t just your own kit that requires attention. After a long day in the field, wet cover, muddy ground, and unpredictable weather can leave your dogs needing extra care before the journey home. Dog & Field’s Dual Layer Olive Towelling Coat is a useful piece of kit to have on hand.

Designed to dry a wet dog while retaining warmth, the microfibre inner draws moisture away, while the soft fleece outer maintains comfort as they cool down. Covering from chest to tail base, it offers full protection without restricting movement. Whether your dog is waiting in the truck, travelling home after a drive or drying off post-training, the coat is a seasonal essential.

Dokken neoprene dog vest: Supervest Xtreme

£39
muntjactrading.com

This 3mm neoprene vest is designed for retrievers and other working dogs operating in cold water, cold weather and rough, dense cover. The superstretch material has heavy-duty nylon stitching, and the supplier says the vest resists scratches and tears from rocks, reeds, thorns and brush. A zipped closure with a wide hook-and-loop flange allows the fit to be adjusted, and the camouflage finish is intended to help conceal the dog when wildfowling. Neoprene also adds a degree of buoyancy and insulation. Sizes run from S to 3XL.

Neoprene traps heat effectively, which is welcome in icy water but means the vest can cause a dog to overheat during strenuous work on milder days, so it is best suited to cold conditions. Its buoyancy is no substitute for a proper canine life-jacket. The maker recommends introducing the vest during pre-season training so the dog gradually grows used to wearing it.