5 Common Mistakes When Buying a Whippet Coat (And How to Avoid Them)

Whippets are especially sensitive to changes in the weather, and the right coat can make all the difference. Whether you’re buying your first sighthound jacket or upgrading for the season ahead, knowing what not to do can save you time, money, and frustration.

Here are five common mistakes whippet owners make when shopping for coats (and how you can avoid them).

1. Choosing a Coat Made for Another Breed

A Labrador coat won’t fit a whippet properly. Generic dog coat designs rarely suit breeds with unique builds and whippets fall into that category. Their deep chest, slim waist, and long neck require a design made specifically for sighthounds.

We recommend: Shop for sighthound-specific coats to ensure the right fit for your

whippet.

2. Taking the Wrong Measurements

Not all sizing charts are created equal. One of the biggest mistakes is ordering a new coat based on your whippet’s old coat measurements. Most brands require fresh measurements of the dog itself and not the coat length. Using the wrong guide can result in a coat that’s far too big.

Likewise, resist the urge to “size up.” Good whippet coats are designed with enough extra length for coverage and movement, adding more can throw off the fit entirely.

We recommend: Always follow the product’s specific measuring instructions. When in doubt, contact the seller with your whippet’s current measurements and weight. Weight helps cross-check sizing for the most accurate fit.

3. Failing to Consider Activity Level

Every dog is different and will have slightly different needs. Your dog’s activity level can help guide your coat choice. If you have a young, energetic whippet who spends a lot of their walk off-lead running about, a bulky winter coat may feel restrictive. In that case, a raincoat with a base layer for colder days can offer better flexibility and comfort.

Older whippets or those more sensitive to cold will benefit from a proper winter coat with full chest coverage to keep them warm and protected during chilly walks.

We recommend: Match your coat choice to your dog’s activity level. For very active dogs, layering may work better than a thick, single winter coat.

4 Ignoring the Local Climate

Just like you dress for your local weather, so should your whippet. Even within the UK, walking conditions vary greatly. If you live in a colder region or at a higher elevation, a warm winter coat is a must. In milder, wetter climates, a lightweight waterproof coat with a snood neck may be more appropriate.

We recommend: Consider both the season and your local climate when buying. Just like people, whippets can benefit from a rotating wardrobe depending on the time of year.

5. Only Choosing Dark Colours

Dark tones are practical — they help hide mud and dirt and look smart. But during darker months, visibility becomes just as important as style. A coat with bright colours or reflective strips can help keep both you and your dog safe during early morning or evening walks.

We recommend: Include at least one bright or reflective coat in your whippet’s wardrobe for safer walks in low-light conditions.

What’s the best approach?

Start with one solid all-rounder - a raincoat with a fleece lining is a great choice. Then build your whippet’s wardrobe around your lifestyle, climate, and their activity level.

Want to see what other whippet owners are using? Browse our carefully selected

whippet coats - chosen for fit, function, and fuss-free comfort. Shop Whippet

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