The Best Dog Hoodies (Review) in 2021

Things to Consider When Buying a Dog Hoodie

To get the perfect dog hoodie for your pup, it’s important to pay attention to certain features, including the size of the hoodie, material, durability and other details. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before committing to a model.

• Will it fit your dog?

This is the most important consideration. If the hoodie is too big or too small for your dog, they will find it uncomfortable and will not wear it. Most dog sweatshirts with hoods are available in multiple sizes, so finding a model that fits your pooch like a glove is definitely possible. However, you do need to be very careful when measuring your dog so that you order the correct size. Thankfully, sizing charts are available for all dog hoodies.

• Is it comfortable?

If the dog hoodie is not comfortable, you will struggle to persuade your pup to wear it. Therefore, choose a model that is made from soft and breathable fabric like cotton. You don’t want any sharp edges or seams sticking into your pet as they move around – comfy and flexible is the way to go.

• Can your dog pee in it?

Check that your dog can pee when they are wearing the hoodie. It is not unusual for dogs to get some pee on their clothes; while this is unpleasant, the hoodie should not restrict any bodily functions!

• Is it durable?

Any garments that are worn by dogs should be built to last. The stitching should be strong and the fabric should not tear. If there are buttons or zippers on the garment, they too must be durable, especially if your pooch is highly active.

• How do you wash it?

A pet hoodie is always going to get dirty so the method of cleaning it is an important consideration. If it is hand wash only, do you have the time to do this? Always think about how it needs to be dried and if this fits in with how you do the rest of your laundry.

• Can you use it with leash or harness?

When you are out and about, it is quite likely that you will want to use a leash or a harness. Check if the pet hoodie is compatible with either of these. Often there will be a slit on the back to fit a leash, but it’s less usual for hoodies to be compatible with a harness.

• How easy is it to get it on and off?

Most dog hoodies come with zippers or buttons (and some models have both). There is no better or worse here, what’s important is to pick something that’s easiest for you to slip on and off your pet. There are also onesies available but we don’t recommend those as they can be tricky to work with.

Why You Should Buy a Dog Hoodie

Not sure if your pup actually needs a dog hoodie? Here are a few reasons why you may want to give these comfy canine accessories a try.

• Keeps your pet warm in winter

For pooches who need a little more insulation to keep them warm in the winter, dog hoodies are a must-have. They’re particularly beneficial for breeds who have shorter or sparser coats.

• Great for spring and fall

Sometimes, a thick dog vest is just too hot and heavy for spring or fall, especially for dogs that have thicker coats. A cozy hoodie is a great alternative as it provides some protection but it’s not heavy or too thick.

• Helps sick dogs

If your pooch has been unwell and is just starting to go outside again, you will not want them to get a chill. They may have lost weight and be feeling the cold more than they used to. A dog fleece hoodie is an ideal thing to get them back outside and active. Puppy hoodies are also great for when a young pup first starts to explore the great outdoors but gets a bit chilly!

• Improves visibility

If you and your dog are fans of nighttime walks, a dog hoodie can help improve your pet’s visibility, and as a result, increase your safety while outside. Dog jackets can also be useful when you’re hiking, especially if your pup’s coloring normally blends with dry grass and sand.

• Amps up your dog’s style

Last but not least, a stylish dog hoodie is guaranteed to amp up your pooch’s style! Whether you choose a denim vest, a printed sweatshirt or a simple sporty hoodie, your pup will walk in style and be the talk of the dog park!

Best Dog Hoodie FAQ:

Q: What is a dog hoodie?

A: A dog hoodie is an item of clothing specifically designed for dogs, usually made out of a sweatshirt-type material such as cotton or cotton-blend, but there are denim vests and jackets available as well. The main purpose of a dog hoodie is to make your pooch feel warmer and more comfortable in chilly weather. As a bonus, a trendy hoodie will also make your pup look super cute and in style!

Q: At what temperature does a dog need a hoodie?

A: There is no fixed temperature at which all dogs will have to wear hoodies because they are all different. Some larger breeds have thick coats and are used to being in colder conditions without suffering any ill-effects. On the other hand, some of the smaller lap-dog breeds can suffer in cooler weather and would benefit from a cozy extra layer to keep them warm.

That said, you will be able to tell if your pooch is cold. They will tremble and shake and will appear to be hunched over. Some dogs, such as breeds with very short or sparse coats, will need a hoodie when it is raining or windy as well as being cold.

Q: How do I get my dog to wear a hoodie?

A: Most dogs have no problem wearing clothing and some will even parade around your neighborhood with great pride. Some, on the other hand, are not so sure at first and may need a little persuading to keep wearing their hoodie.

There’s plenty that you can do to coax your pooch into wearing their new sweatshirt. Your aim is for your dog to associate wearing the hoodie with positive things, so tasty treats work very well! When you first bring the hoodie into your house, it will smell very unfamiliar so let your pooch explore it at their own pace. Let them have a good sniff and then give them a reward. Once they’re done sniffing and exploring their new garment, try to drape the hoodie over their back so they can feel the weight of it on their body. Again, give them a tasty treat when you are doing this so that they associate the hoodie with something positive. Next, put the hoodie onto your dog but only leave it on for a few minutes before taking it back off again. Give them a treat when they are wearing it. Gradually build up the length of time that your dog is wearing the hoodie, and don’t forget to give them plenty of praise and treats. Eventually, they will come to love wearing their dog hoodie just as much as you do.

Our Top Pick

Our top pick for a dog hoodie is Scheppend Original Adidog as it’s incredibly soft and comfortable, but super-durable too. It’s available in many sizes and comes with a useful size chart, so finding the right fit for your pooch should not be a problem. And unlike some other dog clothes, this brand caters to larger breeds as well. There are many colors of these large dog hoodies to choose from – each has the ‘Adidog’ logo printed on them and each is made from the same cotton material that is used to make human sweatshirts so it is both comfortable and breathable. On colder days, the soft sherpa fleece lining will keep your pooch warm and cozy while the breathable design will keep them cool on warmer days. All in all, a fantastic two-piece hoodie that blends style and comfort seamlessly!

Sources:

1. Cold Weather Safety Tips, The ASPCA
2. How to Keep Dogs Warm in the Winter, Best Friends Animal Society