{ "schema": "whattobuyfor/v1", "type": "situation", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-dog-in-winter/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-dog-in-winter.json", "publisher": "What to Buy For", "method": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/how-we-build-a-basket/", "pricesAsOf": "2026-09-29T07:19:39.897Z", "priceNote": "Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on amazon.co.uk at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.", "affiliateDisclosure": "Links to Amazon are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.", "title": "What to buy for a dog in winter", "section": "pets", "answer": "Six things for dark, wet winter walks and drying off afterwards, with grit washed off the paws at home. Sore or cracked paws are a job for your vet.", "published": "2026-09-29", "updated": "2026-09-29", "noindex": false, "whyThisBasket": [ "Built from RSPCA and PDSA winter advice: warmth for the dogs that need it, light for dark walks and a way to get grit off paws.", "The coat is for the dogs the RSPCA and PDSA name: small, young, old, thin-coated or short-coated. Plenty of dogs only need the lights.", "Antifreeze and road grit are covered in the questions below, with what PDSA and the RSPCA advise.", "Nothing here treats sore paws. Cuts, cracks or sores on the pads go to the vet." ], "basket": [ { "id": "walks", "label": "For dark, wet walks", "intro": null, "countsTowardTotal": true, "roles": [ { "role": "A waterproof, fleece-lined coat for dogs that feel the cold", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-dog-in-winter/#role-coat", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B09HXKP1QJ", "name": "Ancol Muddy Paws All Weather Stormguard Dog Puppy", "amazonTitle": "Ancol Muddy Paws All Weather Stormguard Dog Puppy Coat Hi Vis - Waterproof Pet Jacket with Fleece Lining and Chest Protector - Elasticated Neck and Leg Straps - 50 cm Length up to 79 cm Girth - Large", "brand": "Ancol", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31MJ2fQr+TL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09HXKP1QJ", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B09HXKP1QJ.json", "price": { "amount": 12.32, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-29T07:19:39.897Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:18:09.572Z", "rating": 4.5, "ratings": 11993, "boughtLastMonth": "50+", "categoryRank": { "position": 3, "category": "Warm Coats & Jackets for Dogs" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Keeps dogs warm and dry on wet winter walks", "count": 9 }, { "text": "Quick to put on, with the fastening on top of the back", "count": 7 }, { "text": "An opening on the back lets a harness sit underneath", "count": 3 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Runs small, so several went up a size", "count": 3 }, { "text": "The neck hole is wide on slimmer dogs, so the coat slides back", "count": 3 } ] }, "ourName": "Ancol Stormguard hi-vis coat, large", "ourTake": "The RSPCA says young, elderly and thin or short-coated dogs most need a coat, and PDSA adds small breeds. PDSA's all-round coat is waterproof, windproof and lined with fleece or padding. This Ancol coat is waterproof, fleece-lined and hi-vis; this size is 50 cm long for up to 79 cm girth. Buyers say it runs small, so go up a size between sizes." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": { "asin": "B07VBQSXQ1", "name": "Poseca Dog Coat with Harness", "amazonTitle": "Poseca Dog Coat with Harness,Dog Coats Waterproof,Small Dog Harness Jacket,Puppy Winter Fleece Jackets,Winter Waterproof Coat with Reflective Harness and Zipper for Small Medium Large Dogs", "brand": "Poseca", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/417DXy9BV2L._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07VBQSXQ1", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B07VBQSXQ1.json", "price": { "amount": 25.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-29T07:19:39.897Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:18:10.744Z", "rating": 4.3, "ratings": 7996, "boughtLastMonth": "50+", "categoryRank": { "position": 1, "category": "Warm Coats & Jackets for Dogs" } }, "buyersSay": null, "ourName": "Poseca coat with built-in harness" }, "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: Winter and cold weather care for dogs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/winter/pets/dogs", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "PDSA: Does my dog need to wear a coat on winter walks?", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/vet-qa-does-my-dog-need-to-wear-a-coat-on-winter-walks", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "A clip-on light for the collar or harness", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-dog-in-winter/#role-light", "quantity": "1 pack of 2", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B0DFYJBMHS", "name": "MEDT Dog Lights for Night Walking 2Pack LED", "amazonTitle": "MEDT Dog Lights for Night Walking 2Pack LED Rechargeable Dog Collar Lights Clip on with RGB Color for Night Walking Camping", "brand": "MEDT", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41znpoabg6L._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DFYJBMHS", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0DFYJBMHS.json", "price": { "amount": 14.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-29T07:19:39.897Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:18:09.099Z", "rating": 4.3, "ratings": 475, "boughtLastMonth": "700+", "categoryRank": { "position": 1, "category": "Collar Charms for Dogs" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 11, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Bright enough to spot the dog easily in the dark", "count": 7 }, { "text": "Clips on to a harness or collar in seconds", "count": 4 }, { "text": "Rechargeable, and a charge lasts a good while", "count": 4 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Some lights failed or turned erratic within weeks or months", "count": 3 } ] }, "ourName": "MEDT rechargeable collar lights (2)", "ourTake": "The RSPCA suggests reflective or LED gear for the dog and for you, so passing drivers see you both, and PDSA names LED collars. These two lights clip onto a collar and are rechargeable, the listing says, so one can charge while the other is out." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: Winter and cold weather care for dogs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/winter/pets/dogs", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "PDSA: Pet care advice for winter", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/pet-care-advice-for-winter", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "A hi-vis vest for dogs that skip the coat", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-dog-in-winter/#role-hi-vis", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B018QWIXZ2", "name": "Funtone Colors Dog Reflective Vest", "amazonTitle": "Funtone Colors Dog Reflective Vest - Comfortable Jacket Safety Hunting, High Visibility for Dogs with elastic straps and clasp closure- Yellow, Small", "brand": "Funtone Colors", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41n+OYx-JFL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B018QWIXZ2", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B018QWIXZ2.json", "price": { "amount": 16.97, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-29T07:19:39.897Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": "Only 6 left in stock." }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T03:05:44.183Z", "rating": 4.3, "ratings": 1601, "boughtLastMonth": null, "categoryRank": { "position": 5, "category": "Dog Safety Vests" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Shows up clearly on walks in low light and in the dark", "count": 5 }, { "text": "Light and quick to put on, with adjustable elastic straps", "count": 7 }, { "text": "Fits well on dogs from small terriers up to Labradors", "count": 4 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Can work loose on a lively dog off the lead and go missing", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "Funtone reflective dog vest, small", "ourTake": "PDSA says a high visibility coat is ideal on dark winter mornings and evenings and in fog. For a dog that does not need a warm coat, this light reflective vest does the visibility part on its own. It fastens with elastic straps and clips, the listing says; pick the size from your dog's chest and pull the straps snug." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "PDSA: Does my dog need to wear a coat on winter walks?", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/vet-qa-does-my-dog-need-to-wear-a-coat-on-winter-walks", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "PDSA: Pet care advice for winter", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/pet-care-advice-for-winter", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "A head torch for you", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-dog-in-winter/#role-torch", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B09BJV39FB", "name": "Blukar Head Torch Rechargeable", "amazonTitle": "Blukar Head Torch Rechargeable, 2000L Super Bright LED Headlamp Headlight", "brand": "Blukar", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41noNqO+6KL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B09BJV39FB", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B09BJV39FB.json", "price": { "amount": 9.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-29T07:19:39.897Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": { "label": "Limited time deal", "note": null, "basis": "Amazon deal badge" }, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:18:11.470Z", "rating": 4.5, "ratings": 16487, "boughtLastMonth": "3K+", "categoryRank": { "position": 1, "category": "Hands Free Torches" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Very bright, lighting the path well ahead", "count": 12 }, { "text": "Light and comfortable to wear, and the strap stays put", "count": 6 }, { "text": "Charges by USB, and a charge lasts well", "count": 7 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "Blukar rechargeable head torch", "ourTake": "PDSA says a good torch lights the way for you both, and the RSPCA says to stick to lit paths and wear reflective or LED gear yourself. A head torch keeps both hands free for the lead and the poo bags. The listing says this one is rechargeable." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "PDSA: Pet care advice for winter", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/pet-care-advice-for-winter", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "RSPCA: Winter and cold weather care for dogs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/winter/pets/dogs", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] } ] }, { "id": "home", "label": "Back home", "intro": null, "countsTowardTotal": true, "roles": [ { "role": "A large absorbent towel", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-dog-in-winter/#role-towel", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B07K5LJ7YT", "name": "Lucky Paws UK Dog Towel", "amazonTitle": "Lucky Paws® UK Dog Towel - Extra Large 140x70cm Dog Towels - Super Absorbent, Luxuriously Soft, Fast Drying Dog Towels for Drying Dogs - Premium Microfibre Dog Towel (Pack of 1, Grey)", "brand": "Lucky Paws", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41huZtKO2oL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07K5LJ7YT", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B07K5LJ7YT.json", "price": { "amount": 13.95, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-29T07:19:39.897Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:18:09.311Z", "rating": 4.8, "ratings": 2326, "boughtLastMonth": "50+", "categoryRank": { "position": 3, "category": "Dog Shower & Bath Supplies" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Soaks up a lot of water and dries a wet dog quickly", "count": 10 }, { "text": "Soft to the touch, not thin or scratchy", "count": 6 }, { "text": "Washes well and dries fast between walks", "count": 5 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "Lucky Paws microfibre towel, 140 x 70 cm", "ourTake": "The RSPCA says to dry a wet dog fully before they go to sleep, using a blow dryer, a drying coat or a towel. This microfibre towel is extra large at 140 by 70 cm. The upgrade is a microfibre drying coat the dog wears while it dries off." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": { "asin": "B0BFC9LJNJ", "name": "Elite Paws UK Luxury Dog Drying Coat", "amazonTitle": "Elite Paws® UK Luxury Dog Drying Coat, Absorbent Microfibre Robe (M)", "brand": "Elite Paws", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/518x1r8GAxL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0BFC9LJNJ", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B0BFC9LJNJ.json", "price": { "amount": 26.99, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-29T07:19:39.897Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:18:09.182Z", "rating": 4.8, "ratings": 1641, "boughtLastMonth": "200+", "categoryRank": { "position": 2, "category": "Warm Coats & Jackets for Dogs" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Dries a wet or muddy dog quickly, even dogs who hate towels", "count": 9 }, { "text": "Thick, soft fabric that still looks new after many washes", "count": 6 }, { "text": "Strong Velcro keeps it on while the dog moves about", "count": 6 } ], "watchOutFor": [] }, "ourName": "Elite Paws drying coat, medium" }, "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: Winter and cold weather care for dogs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/winter/pets/dogs", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] }, { "role": "A paw washer for grit and salt", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-dog-in-winter/#role-paw-washer", "quantity": "1", "lasts": null, "consumable": false, "lastsDays": null, "pick": { "asin": "B01N64DCPR", "name": "Dexas MudBuster Portable Dog Paw Cleaner", "amazonTitle": "Dexas MudBuster Portable Dog Paw Cleaner, Medium, Blue", "brand": "Dexas", "image": "https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41DIIcr7hQL._SL500_.jpg", "amazonUrl": "https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01N64DCPR", "data": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/products/B01N64DCPR.json", "price": { "amount": 12.59, "currency": "GBP", "checkedAt": "2026-09-29T07:19:39.897Z", "note": "Checked on Amazon UK that morning; the price at checkout on amazon.co.uk applies." }, "availability": { "status": "IN_STOCK", "amazonMessage": null }, "subscribeAndSave": null, "signal": null, "amazon": { "source": "amazon.co.uk", "recordedAt": "2026-09-27T02:18:15.209Z", "rating": 4.3, "ratings": 56062, "boughtLastMonth": "200+", "categoryRank": { "position": 23, "category": "Claw Care for Dogs" } }, "buyersSay": { "method": "Our own summary of the reviews Amazon showed; each count is the number of reviews making the point.", "reviewsRead": 13, "readOn": "2026-09-27", "like": [ { "text": "Gets mud and street dirt off paws quickly and thoroughly", "count": 8 }, { "text": "Soft silicone bristles that most dogs put up with", "count": 3 } ], "watchOutFor": [ { "text": "Less effective on very heavy mud, which clouds the water fast", "count": 2 }, { "text": "Some dogs take a while to accept it, so treats help", "count": 2 } ] }, "ourName": "Dexas MudBuster, medium", "ourTake": "PDSA says grit and salt can get caught between the pads, irritate the skin and upset the stomach if licked, and suggests washing paws with plain water after walks. The RSPCA says to wipe the pads, paws and tummy too. The MudBuster is a portable paw cleaner you fill with water; this is the medium size." }, "budget": null, "upgrade": null, "sources": [ { "name": "PDSA: How do I keep my pet safe from de-icing products?", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/vet-qa-how-do-i-keep-my-pet-safe-from-de-icing-products", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "RSPCA: Winter and cold weather care for dogs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/winter/pets/dogs", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "the product's Amazon listing" } ] } ] } ], "totals": { "today": { "amount": 80.81, "currency": "GBP", "itemsPriced": 6, "itemsMissingPrice": 0 }, "monthlyRunningCost": null }, "canWait": [ { "what": "Dog boots", "why": "The RSPCA says boots protect paws from freezing ground and cut contact with antifreeze, grit and rock salt, but the paw washer already deals with grit after each walk, as PDSA suggests. If you add boots for ice, measure paw width against the size chart and check they stay on." }, { "what": "Clippers for paw fur", "why": "The RSPCA says trimming the fur on the paws helps stop ice balls forming. A groomer can do it, so there is no need to buy clippers for one job." }, { "what": "A jumper", "why": "The Royal Kennel Club mentions a fitted jumper or coat for short-coated dogs. A jumper is not waterproof, so the coat comes first for wet walks." } ], "skip": [ { "what": "Paw balms sold as remedies", "why": "Healing and itch-relief claims are out of scope here. PDSA's tip is only a thin layer of paw butter on the pads, and sore or cracked pads need a vet." } ], "questions": [ { "question": "Does my dog need a coat in winter?", "answer": "Some dogs do. The RSPCA names elderly and young dogs, dogs with thin or short fur and dogs with health conditions, and PDSA adds small breeds and fine-coated dogs such as Greyhounds and Whippets. If your dog is shivering or slowing down on a walk, PDSA says to bring them home into the warm straight away." }, { "question": "Is road grit bad for dogs' paws?", "answer": "It can be. PDSA says grit and salt can get caught between the pads, irritate the skin and cause stomach upsets if licked or eaten. Wash paws with plain water when you get home and check them for sores or cuts, as PDSA advises. Ask your vet about anything you find." }, { "question": "Why is antifreeze dangerous to dogs?", "answer": "It usually contains ethylene glycol. PDSA says engine antifreeze, de-icing spray and screen wash often contain it and it is toxic to dogs and cats, and the RSPCA says it can cause kidney failure and death. Keep bottles out of reach. If you think your dog has swallowed any, contact your vet as soon as possible, even without symptoms." }, { "question": "How should I measure my dog for a coat?", "answer": "In three places, PDSA says: length from the collar to the base of the tail, the chest just behind the front legs, and the neck. The dog should be able to move freely and do everything it usually does with the coat on." } ], "sources": [ { "name": "RSPCA: Winter and cold weather care for dogs", "url": "https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/seasonal/winter/pets/dogs", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "PDSA: Pet care advice for winter", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/pet-care-advice-for-winter", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "PDSA: Does my dog need to wear a coat on winter walks?", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/vet-qa-does-my-dog-need-to-wear-a-coat-on-winter-walks", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "PDSA: How do I keep my pet safe from de-icing products?", "url": "https://www.pdsa.org.uk/what-we-do/blog/vet-qa-how-do-i-keep-my-pet-safe-from-de-icing-products", "checked": "2026-09-26" }, { "name": "The Royal Kennel Club: Essential equipment for your puppy or dog", "url": "https://www.royalkennelclub.com/your-dog/getting-a-dog/buying-a-dog/essential-equipment-for-your-puppy-or-dog/", "checked": "2026-09-26" } ], "related": [ { "title": "What to buy for an older dog", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-dog/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/an-older-dog.json" }, { "title": "What to buy for dog hair everywhere", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/dog-hair-everywhere/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/dog-hair-everywhere.json" }, { "title": "What to buy for travelling with a dog", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/travelling-with-a-dog/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/travelling-with-a-dog.json" }, { "title": "What to buy for a cold house", "url": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-cold-house/", "json": "https://whattobuyfor.co.uk/a-cold-house.json" } ] }