Shedrow K9 Chinook Dog Coat Review
If you have a dog that is sensitive to the colder weather, then you understand the importance of finding high-quality winter gear – Especially living in Canada!
Our previous dogs thrived in colder temperatures, but this streak ended when we adopted little man Lucifer. Just 10 minutes outside in a Canadian winter had the little guy shivering, so we knew we would have to invest in a coat to keep him comfortable.
After asking friends and family for their recommendations, we purchased a Shedrow K9 Chinook Dog Coat.
About Shedrow K9
Shedrow, a brand owned by Greenhawk Equestrian Sport, started as a line of horse apparel that was (and is) well-respected in the equestrian community.
They introduced their Shedrow K9 jackets, inspired by horse blankets, more than 25 years ago.
Since that time, their canine line of products has grown and evolved to include new winter coat styles, rain jackets, sweaters, and other dog accessories.
Today, Greenhawk offers franchise store opportunities for those interested in opening their own stores across Canada, including horse-specific and combination horse & pet locations.
Product Overview: Shedrow K9 Chinook Dog Coat
Before we get into our Shedrow K9 Chinook Dog Coat review, let’s take a moment to look at some of the basic features and benefits that the coat provides.
Features
Size: XXS to XL, sized based on length and width measurements
- 2XS
Back length 9” (23cm)
Chest 14”-18” (36 – 46cm)
Recommended Breeds: Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Papillion
- XS
Back length 11” (28cm)
Chest 18”- 26” (46 – 66cm)
Recommended Breeds: Yorkie, Bichon Frise, Maltese, Toy Poodle
- S
Back length 13” (33cm)
Chest 20”- 28” (51 – 71cm)
Recommended Breeds: Shih Tzu, Jack Russel, Boston Terrier
- MS
Back length 15” (38cm)
Chest 24”- 32” (60 -81cm)
Recommended Breeds: Pug, Westie, Dachshund, Corgi
- M
Back length 19” (48cm)
Chest 28”- 35” (71 – 88cm)
Recommended Breeds: Scottie, Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Cattle Dog
- L
Back length 23” (58cm)
Chest 32”- 41” (81 – 104cm)
Recommended Breeds: Springer Spaniel, Aussie Shepherd
- XL
Back length 27” (68cm)
Chest 34”- 45” (86 – 114cm)
Recommended Breeds: Lab, Retriever, Weimaraner, Bloodhound
Colours: Black, Red/Grey, Classic Blue, Fuchsia/Grey, Pine/Grey
Stand Out Features:
- Adjustable straps
- Y-shaped belly band
- Sherpa lined collar
- Waterproof and fleece lined
- 140-gram cotton fill
Machine Washable for Easy Cleaning
Every dog owner has come back from a hike or outdoor adventure at one time or another dirty and muddy. After all, that’s the fun of outdoor adventuring!
Shedrow K9 jackets can be machine washed on the gentle cycle, then hung to dry.
Adjustable for a Range of Body Shapes
The belly band of the jacket is made from adjustable webbing, making it easy to adapt the jacket to suit dogs of any weight and body type.
Leg straps at the rear of the coat, which hold the coat in place against the rear legs, are also adjustable. They are narrow and elastic, helping to reduce any discomfort your dog may feel while wearing them and keeping them out of the way when your dog goes to the bathroom.
Full-Coverage Y-Shaped Belly Band
Most of the coats from Shedrow K9 still feature the blanket-style design from their equestrian roots. One downfall of this design is that the belly is largely exposed to the elements.
The Chinook Dog Coat is made with a Y-shaped belly band that covers the chest and belly, stopping just short enough to allow your dog to go to the bathroom.
In addition to offering protection from the elements, the belly band also helps to protect your dog from any scrapes or cuts that could result from climbing over branches, rocks, ice, and other obstacles.
Waterproof and Lined for Optimal Protection
Many winter dog coats are water resistant, which will hold up to light precipitation but won’t protect your dog fully in heavy rainfall. The Chinook Dog Coat is waterproof, providing that added level of protection when hiking with your dog.
The coat is made with 140-gram cotton fill and a cozy fleece lining for added warmth.
Around the neck, a short Sherpa-lined collar provides your dog with extra warmth on the coldest days while also acting as a fun, stylish touch.
Easy Access to Leash and Harness Clips
An easy-to-access spot on the back of the coat makes hooking to a standard back clip harness simple. Meanwhile, the front zipper on the coat’s chest can be lowered to provide access to a front clip if needed.
If you hike with your dog on a standard collar, the Sherpa-lined collar of the jacket can be folded back to sit below the collar.
How Much Does It Cost?
These coats can be purchased at different stores across Canada, and each store may have its own pricing and promotions. But, on the Greenhaw website, the coats range from $54.99 to $74.99, depending on the size.
Additionally, Greenhawk offers free shipping in Canada for orders over $75.
We purchased Lucifer’s coat through Greenhawk and were impressed with the shipping speed, which was shorter than the estimate we were given at the time of purchase.
Pros and Cons of the Shedrow K9 Chinook Dog Coat
Of course, like any gear, there are both pros and cons to consider when making a purchase decision. No product is perfect, and no product is made to excel in every possible situation.
Here is a brief overview of the pros/cons of this coat:
Pros
- Machine washable for easy cleanup after your outdoor adventures
- Full coverage protects both the back and belly from the elements
- Can be used with back clip and front clip harnesses, as well as a standard collar
- Waterproof and lined/insulated
Cons
- Fleece lining collects and holds dog hair
- Y-shaped belly band doesn’t adjust for the length of your dog’s chest
- Collar is short, not offering the level of neck protection provided by some coats
Our First-Hand Review
We have used this coat as Lucifer’s go-to winter gear for two winters. During this time, we have been impressed by the level of protection it offers. It allows the little guy to enjoy being outdoors, playing with our other dogs during the colder temperatures.
The coat’s design is similar to that of a harness with the Y-shaped belly band, making it easier for dogs to adjust to the feel of wearing it.
While the webbing at the waist is adjustable, the length of the belly band itself can’t be changed or shifted. Depending on your dog’s body shape, this may cause some issues with fit and coverage.
When we first tried the jacket on Lucifer, the belly band hung down from his chest, leaving a gap that could collect snow inside the coat and allow the wind to move inside. I tailored it slightly by stitching the belly band a little shorter to accommodate his needs.
The coat’s exterior can be wiped down with a damp cloth, which leaves it looking as good as new. The only challenge with keeping it clean between uses is the interior.
Fleece is a warm fabric option for lining, which explains why it was chosen. But it also acts as a magnet for dog hair. Lucifer isn’t a heavy-shedding dog, but his coat does collect a significant amount of fur every time he wears it.
FAQs
Do dog jackets actually keep dogs warm?
While many dogs have plenty of insulation from their coat, dogs with short or thin coats may struggle to keep warm in the winter temperatures. Like your winter coat, a dog coat offers an added layer of insulation for your dog.
A water-resistant or waterproof coat will also help keep your dog dry, contributing to staying warmer.
How cold is too cold for dogs?
The exact temperature that is too cold for your dog will differ from dog to dog. Some breeds are better adapted to the colder temperatures, like the Arctic breeds.
A good rule of thumb is to stop and consider your dog’s comfort level when temperatures fall below 10 degrees Celsius.
Pay careful attention to high-risk dogs like puppies, senior dogs, and those with medical problems.
How do I know if my dog is cold?
There are several signs you can watch for that will let you know your dog is starting to get cold. This includes shivering, shaking, standing in a hunched position with their tail tucked, whining, lifting their paws off the ground, or seeking a place to hide.
Final Thoughts: Shedrow K9 Chinook Dog Coat
While there are a couple of things we would change or improve on the coat, the Shedrow K9 Chinook Dog Coat is our current go-to solution for keeping Lucifer comfortable during the winter months.
We highly recommend it as an option to consider if you are currently shopping for a winter coat for your dog.
Have you tried the Shedrow K9 Chinook Dog Coat? How do you feel it compared to other winter dog coats you have tried? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
