Do Whippets Need Raincoats?

Autumn is on its way, and that means rain - lots of it. If you’ve ever walked a whippet in the rain, you probably already know they’re not fans of getting wet. So, do they need a raincoat?

Short answer: YES - and for more reasons that you might think.

1. Health and Comfort

Whippets have fine, short coats and very little body fat, making them particularly vulnerable to cold and damp weather. While some dog breeds don’t mind a bit of rain or chill, whippets are more likely to become uncomfortable or even unwell.

Their lean physique means it’s about more than just comfort. Being cold and wet can actually increase their risk of illness, like canine coughs and sniffles. And it doesn’t need to be freezing for a whippet to feel the cold. Just a bit of autumn chill and some damp fur can leave them shivering.

Given a sighthound’s unique build and sensitivity, a raincoat is less of a fashion statement and more of a necessity.

2. Stubborn by Nature

Whippets, like many sighthounds, hate being wet. Ever tried coaxing a cosy whippet off the sofa for a quick bathroom break during a downpour? If you have, you know just how stubborn they can be!

A good raincoat can make those reluctant outings smoother, increasing the chances your whippet will cooperate, whether it's for a walk or just a quick trip into the garden.

3. Less Mess Indoors

Thanks to their short coats, whippets are relatively clean dogs. Still, a raincoat adds an extra layer of cleanliness. One with good coverage reduces drying time, damp-dog smell, and mess inside your car or home. Keeping floors, furniture, and bedding drier and cleaner.

Who Benefits Most

• Puppies & older dogs: more vulnerable to cold and damp

• Lean whippets: less natural insulation

• Rain haters:  a coat can make walks enjoyable again

Choosing the Right Raincoat for Your Whippet

Because of their unique shape, generic dog coats often don’t fit whippets well. Generic dog coats may come up short of the base of the tail, slip, shift, or restrict movement, especially during those famous zoomies!

Here’s what to look for in a whippet-friendly raincoat:

• Choose a sighthound specific design: the cut will accommodate for slim waists, deep chests and curved spines.

• Good coverage: choose a coat with a fold-back collar or adjustable snood/hood to protect the neck. Ensure the coat extends to cover the base of the tail.

• Seasonal suitability: for spring or early autumn, go with a lightweight raincoat that’s easy to fold and store in a backpack for unexpected showers.

• Layering potential: On cooler days, you can extend the use of a lightweight raincoat by layering it over a warm vest.

• Safety features: opt for bright colours or high-visibility elements for those early morning or evening walks.

Whippets may not need raincoats, but allowing them to stay dry, warm, and happy on wet walks? Absolutely. It’s about comfort, health, happiness and a dry home too.

If it is cold or wet enough for you to need a coat, the chances are that your whippet needs a coat too.

Seasonal or soggy-weather walks become so much happier when both you and your dog stay snug.