Best Dog Coats for Border Collies. Our Top Recommended Options.

When weather conditions are a bit too harsh to handle, a good idea, is to provide additional warmth and protection to your Border Collie through the use of a commercial dog coat.

Dog coats come in a variety of styles and materials, each designed to offer different levels of warmth, protection, and comfort. 

Some coats are designed to be waterproof, windproof, and breathable, while others are made from soft and cozy materials such as fleece or wool.

When choosing dog coats for your Border Collie, it’s important to consider the specific needs of your dog.

For example:

• If your dog is particularly active, you may want to choose a coat that is lightweight and breathable.
• On the other hand, if your dog is older or has health issues, you may want to choose a coat that provides extra warmth and protection.

Regardless, in this article on dog coats for Border Collies, we’ll be diving deep into what some of the best options for are, so that you make the best possible option for your pup.

Let’s dive right in!

Why Do Border Collies Need Coats?

Border Collies are a breed of dog that originates from the Scottish Borders region, where they were bred to work as herding dogs.

They have a double coat of their own, which consists of a thick undercoat and a longer topcoat, designed to protect them from harsh weather conditions and keep them cool.

Now, while Border Collies are generally well-equipped to handle cold temperatures, they may still require a coat in certain situations.

For example:

• If a Border Collie is less than a year old or elderly, they may need a coat to help regulate their body temperature and keep them warm.
• Additionally, if the winters are wet or extremely cold (-20 °C or colder), a coat can help protect them from the elements.

In any case, Border Collies don’t usually need coats in most cases and can be prone to overheating if they wear them unnecessarily.

Therefore, it’s essential to monitor your dog, their body temperature and behavior when they’re wearing a coat, especially during physical activity.

Types of Dog Coats for Border Collies

Generally speaking, Border Collies have their own fur, which will help them adapt to the outside temperatures, and keep them warm in winter and cool in the summer.

With that said, sometimes you’ll want to add some warmth, which is where these dog coats come in handy.

When it comes to the different types of coats, there are a few options to choose from, each designed to cater to specific needs.

Some of the different types of dog coats include:

• Winter Coats: Insulated and often fleece-lined coats designed to keep dogs warm in colder temperatures.
• Raincoats: Waterproof coats that protect dogs from rain and wet conditions.
• Reflective Coats: Coats with reflective materials to enhance visibility during nighttime walks.
• Windbreakers: Lightweight coats designed to protect against chilly winds while offering mobility.

• Therapeutic Coats: Coats designed to provide relief for dogs with joint or muscle issues.

• Fashion Coats: Coats that prioritize style and design, often with unique patterns or materials.

• Service Dog Coats: Coats that help identify service or working dogs, often with patches or labels.

• Cooling Coats: Coats with cooling technology to keep dogs comfortable in hot weather.

• Martingale Coats: Coats with a built-in martingale collar for added control and safety.

In this section though, we’ll discuss the most common types of dog coats for Border Collies in particular, which are the insulated, the waterproof and the reflective.

Insulated Dog Coats

Insulated dog coats are designed to keep your Border Collie warm during cold weather.

These coats are made of materials that trap heat and provide insulation. They come in different thicknesses, depending on the severity of the cold weather.

Some insulated dog coats also come with a fleece lining that provides extra warmth and comfort.

When choosing an insulated dog coat, make sure it fits your Border Collie properly and allows for free movement.

Waterproof Dog Coats

Waterproof dog coats are designed to keep your Border Collie dry during rainy weather.

They are made of materials that repel water and prevent it from seeping through to the dog’s skin.

Waterproof dog coats come in different styles, including full-body coverage and partial coverage. Some waterproof dog coats also come with a hood to protect the dog’s head from rain.

Choose a coat that is not only waterproof but also breathable. This prevents moisture from building up inside the coat, keeping your Collie comfortable.

Reflective Dog Coats

Reflective dog coats are designed to keep your Border Collie visible during low light conditions.

These coats are made of materials that reflect light, making your dog visible to motorists and pedestrians.

Reflective dog coats come in different styles, including full-body coverage and partial coverage, and some can even come with flashing lights to enhance visibility. 

Key Features to Look for in a Border Collie Coat

When it comes to choosing a coat for your Border Collie, there are a few key features that you should consider to ensure that you get the best possible product for your pup.

In this section, we’ll be going over what some of the most important features to look for in a Border Collie coat are.

Size and Fit

The cornerstone of successful coat selection, lies in achieving the ideal size and fit.

A coat that is too tight can cause discomfort, while an overly loose one might compromise protection.

You want a coat that’s perfect in both fit and size so that your Border Collie has enough freedom of movement while also being warm.

Make sure you measure your Border Collie first, so that you know roughly what size coat you need. 

Material

The choice of material with which your dog’s coat is made, has massive impact.

There are a lot of different materials to choose from, including:

• Nylon: A durable and water-resistant material, making it ideal for coats that offer protection against rain and wet conditions.
• Polyester: A popular choice for dog coats. It can be both water-resistant and breathable, providing comfort in various weather conditions.
• Waterproof Fabrics: Designed to repel water completely, keeping your Border Collie dry in rainy or snowy weather.
• Fleece: A soft and warm material that offers insulation against cold temperatures. Fleece-lined coats provide extra warmth and comfort.
• Neoprene: A synthetic rubber that offers both insulation and water-resistance. It’s commonly used in coats designed for water activities.
• Wool: A natural material known for its insulation properties. Wool coats provide warmth, even when wet, making them suitable for colder weather.
• Cotton: While not as water-resistant as other materials, cotton can still be used in lightweight coats for mild weather.

When it comes to materials, you always want to prioritize high-quality, durable materials that can withstand the outdoor adventures.

Ease of Use

When choosing a coat, try to be in the lookout for a coat that effortlessly slips on and off your Collie, ideally featuring adjustable straps.

This convenience, streamlines the whole process and even encourages regular use, which can sometimes be hard to achieve otherwise.

Durability

Durability should also be at the top of the list of things to lookout for on dog coats.

Although premium coats may bear a slightly higher initial cost, their lasting quality and superior protection more than justify the expense.

Prioritize coats with sturdy materials, safeguarding your Collie against wear and tear.

Adjustable Features

The versatility of adjustable features can transform a good coat into a great one, so be on the lookout for coats with customizable straps or fastenings, that adapt to your Collie’s shape.

These adjustable elements ensure a snug and secure fit, preventing the coat from shifting during play.

Reflective Properties

Remember to increase safety during low-light conditions, or at night, by choosing coats with reflective properties.

These dog coats catch and amplify ambient light, making your pup more visible during nighttime walks or early morning adventures.

Harness Access

For a seamless transition from indoor to outdoor activities, you can choose a coat with built-in harness access.

This feature eliminates the need to remove the coat when attaching a leash, maintaining your Collie’s comfort and convenience.

Price

While it’s prudent to consider your budget, remember that a quality coat often correlates with a slightly higher price tag.

The initial investment in a well-crafted coat pays dividends in terms of longevity, protection, and your Border Collie’s contentment.

By considering these key features when choosing a coat for your Border Collie, you can ensure that you get a product that is comfortable, protective, and built to last.

Top Brands for Border Collie Coats

Finally, with all of that information out of the way, let’s look at more of the specifics of exactly what the best coats for Border Collies are, which brand makes them, how much they cost, etc.

So when it comes finding the perfect coat for your Border Collie, a few top brands stand out from the rest.

These brands have earned their reputation for providing high-quality, durable, and comfortable coats for dogs of all sizes, including Border Collies.

These are:

Voyagers K9 Apparel

Voyagers K9 Apparel specializes in crafting custom dog coats that offer protection and comfort for active dogs.

Their coats are tailored to fit your Border Collie perfectly, ensuring a snug and secure fit.

With options like waterproof coats and fleece-lined winter coats, Voyagers K9 Apparel has your Collie covered in all weather conditions, regardless of need.

Features: Custom sizing, waterproof options, fleece-lined coats.

Pros: Customizable fit, various styles for different weather, high-quality materials, combo pack available.

Cons: Customization may require measurements, slightly higher price range. 2 week estimated shipping time.

Price: Prices vary based on coat type and size, but can range from around $62.00 for a tummy warmer, to over $300.00 for the complete set of products.

Ruffwear

Ruffwear is a trusted brand known for its durable outdoor gear for dogs.

Their coats are designed to withstand rugged conditions and come in various styles, including waterproof and insulated options.

Many Ruffwear coats also feature reflective materials, enhancing visibility during nighttime walks.

Features: Reflective elements, weather-resistant fabrics, adjustable straps.

Pros: High-quality materials, reflective elements, wide range of styles, sizes and flexible pricing points.

Cons: Some designs may not fit all body shapes perfectly, mid-range to higher price. Only 30 day refund period.

Price: Prices vary based on coat type and size, but goes anywhere from $59.95 to $99.95.

Hurtta

Hailing from Finland, Hurtta is renowned for creating high-quality dog apparel suitable for outdoor activities.

Their coats are crafted from breathable and waterproof materials, prioritizing your Collie’s comfort and protection.

Hurtta offers a diverse selection, including lightweight raincoats and insulated winter coats.

Features: Adjustable closures, weatherproof fabrics, ergonomic design.

Pros: Varied coat options from Raincoats, windbreakers, insulating coats, training coats and more. Exceptional quality.

Cons: Sizing might need adjustments, only ships to the EU countries.

Price: Prices vary based on coat type and size, but you can expect to find coats anywhere from €67.90 to €112.90.

WeatherBeeta

WeatherBeeta is a well-known brand offering a range of dog coats to suit various weather conditions.

Their coats are constructed with top-notch materials, prioritizing both protection and comfort.

With options like waterproof and insulated coats, WeatherBeeta ensures your Border Collie stays cozy and dry.

Features: Waterproof options, adjustable closures, diverse style choices.

Pros: High-quality construction, diverse styles, adjustable straps.

Cons: Some designs might not fit all body types perfectly, mid-range to higher price, the website also focuses mostly on horse apparel and isn’t specialized in dog apparel.

Price: Prices vary based on coat type and sizes, but the price ranges are currently from around $30.95 to $60.95.

Kurgo Loft Dog Jacket

The Kurgo Loft Dog Jacket combines practicality and style, making it an excellent choice for your Border Collie.

Designed for chilly weather, this jacket features a waterproof and windproof exterior to keep your furry friend warm and dry.

Its adjustable hook-and-loop straps ensure a snug fit, while its vibrant color options add a touch of flair to your Collie’s outdoor attire.

Features: Water-resistant fabric, reflective accents, multiple color choices.

Pros: Water-resistant, windproof, adjustable fit, stylish design. Company also produces other products like scarfs, harnesses, leashes, collars, lifejackets and car seat covers. High positive customer review count.

Cons: Sizing may be tricky for some dogs, limited insulation in extremely cold temperatures.

Price: From $35.95 to $54.95

All in all, when it comes to finding the perfect coat for your Border Collie, these top brands offer a variety of options to choose from.

Whether you need a coat for cold winter days or for rainy spring walks, these brands have got you “covered”, so to speak.

How to Measure Your Border Collie for a Coat

Getting the right fit for your Border Collie’s coat is important to ensure their comfort and protection from the elements.

Here are some steps to follow when measuring your Border Collie for a coat:

• Measure the length of your dog’s back: To measure the back of your Border Collie, place the start of your tape measure on the back of your dog’s neck and measure all the way down until the base of their tail. Take this measurement in centimeters.
• Measure your dog’s chest size: To find out your Border Collie’s chest size, wrap your tape measure around the widest section of your dog’s chest. Make sure the tape measure is snug but not too tight and take this measurement in centimeters.
• Measure your dog’s neck size: To measure your Border Collie’s neck size, wrap the tape measure around the base of their neck where their collar usually sits. Make sure the tape measure is snug but not too tight and take this measurement in centimeters.
• Check the manufacturer’s sizing chart: Once you have these measurements, check the manufacturer’s sizing chart to find the right size coat for your Border Collie. Different brands may have slightly different sizing, so it’s important to check the specific brand’s chart.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your Border Collie gets a coat that fits them comfortably and provides them with the protection they need during cold weather.

Conclusion

In conclusion, in the realm of best dog coats for Border Collie, our #1 most recommended option, is the Voyagers K9 Apparel Custom Dog Coat.

This brand of dog clothing, not only exemplifies quality and functionality, but also showcases a commitment for maximum comfort and protection for your dog.

This line of dog coats ensures a secure fit, (regardless of type of coat) because of the customization option that they provide.

Not only that, but it’s also amongst the highest quality materials in the market, and the brand itself provides a sturdy array of coat options that cater to different weather and activity levels.

From waterproof coats to cozy fleece-lined winter options, there is something for everyone. 

The price tag on these products is a little high, but Voyagers K9 Apparel manages to strike a balance between quality and affordability, which ends up justifying the price, making it a wise investment in your Collie’s comfort and well-being.

Overall, while Border Collies do not necessarily need coats for everyday use, they can be a useful tool in certain situations.

Regardless, it’s important to consider your individual dog’s needs and preferences before making a decision of buying a dog coat or not, and if you do decide to buy one, our recommended option should be more than enough.