Kurgo Halifax Dog Rain Shell

The Kurgo Halifax is a heavy-duty dog rain shell in polyester ripstop with a waterproof TPU coating. It closes with quick-release buckles and has an opening for a harness or collar.

Who it suits

Dogs that are hard on their gear, such as those pushing through brush on wet trails. It is stiffer than lighter shells, so let your dog get used to it before long walks.

Key facts

• 100% polyester ripstop fabric with a waterproof TPU coating (Kurgo)
• Horizontal harness or collar opening with hook and loop closure (Kurgo)
• Reflective piping for visibility (Kurgo)
• Sizes XS to XL; the maker says neck and chest measurements matter most (Kurgo)
• Hand wash only (Kurgo)

What reviewers say

Treeline Review named it the most durable coat of nine: “seriously heavy duty, with the thickest and sturdiest material of all the dog rain jackets we tested”. The downside: “my tester dogs moved a bit more stiffly when wearing it”. We did not test it ourselves.

Pros and cons

• Pro: Thickest and sturdiest material in Treeline’s test
• Pro: Opening works with a harness or a collar, per the maker
• Pro: Reflective piping, per the maker
• Con: Hand wash only, per the maker
• Con: Treeline’s dogs moved a bit more stiffly in it
• Con: Only one hands-on test picked it

Cautions

• Check the fit: snug but not restricting movement, with leg openings that do not rub. If your dog bites, scratches or rubs at the coat, PDSA says that is a sign it does not fit right.
• Dry your dog after wet walks and hang the coat to dry before you store it. Vets quoted by Business Insider and the AKC warn that prolonged dampness, or a coat put away damp, can encourage bacteria or skin infections.
• Take the coat off indoors. PDSA notes most dogs can quickly overheat in a coat in a heated home, and thick-coated dogs may not need one at all.
• A raincoat is not a treatment. If your dog is shivering, lethargic, confused, unsteady or has pale gums after time in cold, wet weather, the RSPCA and PetMD say to take them to a vet immediately.