The Best Coats for French Bulldogs

With the cold weather starting to hit, it’s time to start thinking about the best winter coat for your french bulldog aka your best friend. We all know french bulldogs are special and have different needs than other dog breeds, so I’ll break this article down in as much detail as possible.

French bulldogs do tend to get cold easily because of their small size and short coats, it’s especially important for them to have a warm coat during night walks as that’s when they get the most cold. A french bulldog’s body loses heat faster than they can produce it and they are also prone to hypothermia and colds.

Furthermore, French bulldogs have a brachycephalic skull and short snouts that make them incapable of warming up the air they inhale. So it’s really important to keep them warm with the extra layer since they have a short coat. They need a coat to feel comfortable in cold weather.

Because of this, I will only recommend coats made out of high-quality material to last your frenchie all winter. Especially if you live somewhere with harsh weather and a really cold winter.

All of the coats listed in this article are also machine washable, which is absolutely necessary because they will get dirty and full of hair.

Due to their short hair and short legs, it’s also important to have a water-resistant coat if you live somewhere with snow or lots of rain. Since frenchie’s are short, their bellies will touch the snow if you live somewhere where it snows.

Ok so lets get to the best winter coats for your baby- only the best for your furry friend!

Best Choices for Winter Months:

*** Keep in mind that most of these coats come in different colors as well. Once you click the link, you’ll be able to see the different color options and decide which one fits your style best.

Faux Fur for Cold Climate

These coats are the best quality for really cold winters. They are all waterproof and will protect their bellies when they touch the snow and they are multi-layered to keep them as warm as possible in extreme weather. If the temperature where you are drops below 50 degrees, I recommend getting a coat from this section and also consider buying an extra layer (linked below) for days that are really freezing.

Winter Puppy Dog CoatWater-Resistant Insulated Dog ParkaWater-Resistant Insulated Dog ParkaWarm Winter CoatWinter Cotton-Padded Jacket with HoodieLeather Dog Waterproof Dog Winter Coat

Frenchie Coats with Reflective Stripes

Having a reflective coat is the best choice if you take walks at night or just generally if you have a frenchie that likes to take off and run. Reflective stripes provide optimal night time visibility.

Cozy Waterproof Windproof Reflective Reversible Winter CoatReflective Dog Winter Coat WindproofReflective Dog Winter CoatWaterproof WindproofReflective Dog Coat with Harness

Light French Bulldog Jackets

If you live somewhere that doesn’t get too cold, a lighter frenchie jacket is a good idea.

Sherpa Vest Dog SweaterJean JacketDog Raincoat JacketLightweight Reversible Winter Dog Coat

Add Extra Warmth + Extra Layer

If you want to keep your dogs legs warm as well, I recommend layering. If you get a thicker coat that has padded legs, it’ll be harder for your frenchie to walk because their legs are so small. But if it’s a thinner layer on their legs, they’ll be able to walk comfortably and it is the perfect way to keep them warm without restricting them. These are also good for the fall and spring months as we transition in and out of the cold temperatures.

Turtleneck Knitted Dog SweaterDoggy Sweater

Winter Season Special Occasions

Santa Baby CoatHandsome Santa CoatWarm Dog Sweater JacketWarm Dog Sweater Jacket

Your Frenchie & the Different Sizes

Frenchies belong in the category of small dogs, and usually weight between 18-28 pounds. French bulldog females should weigh between 18-26 pounds, while males usually weigh between 20-28 pounds.

Every dog’s body is going to measure differently, even if they’re the same breed. You’re going to definitely want to measure from the base of their neck to the base of the tail for a good fit. You’ll also want to measure around the neck for the collar size and measure their girth (usually behind their elbows) for a perfect fit.

However, each coat listing should have a size chart specific to that brand- that is what you should go by since the sizes can vary from company to company and frenchies have a unique body shape.

For French bulldogs, it’s important to take the correct measurements because of their shortened noses. When something is gripping their necks, they may experience severe issues with breathing. So if the item you’re buying requires measuring the collar- be extra careful here.

Also, for French bulldogs with hip dysplasia, you should always measure the hip area and buy a coat that does not increase the pain. You do not want it to be too tight or restricting around the hip if this is an issue.

If you don’t mind returning, I recommend ordering in two sizes so that you can try them on and make sure your frenchie is comfortable.

Other Things to Consider:

There’s so much to consider as a frenchie owner 🙂 But taking your time to consider the best coats for french bulldogs is definitely worth your while- and your frenchie’s!

If your dog gives you a hard time putting clothes on or is just very wiggly, consider getting french bulldog coats with a zipper closure.

Also, make sure you go with a waterproof dog jacket if you live somewhere that gets wet. Most of these are also windproof, which helps keep your baby warm.

There are coats that also cover the legs, but I find those a bit uncomfortable for your furry friend. It makes it harder for them to move around (even when they have elastic cuffs).

If you’re frenchie tends to get sick, has recently been sick or is older and prone to illness, you definitely want to get them a winter coat. They are way more sensitive to harsh weather than other dog breeds.

Remember, dogs do not love wearing clothing and it will take them some time to adjust. But don’t give up! Just give them some treats when you put their coat on so they can get excited knowing every time they put their coat on they will be getting a treat and a walk.

The little annoyance for them is worth the many benefits of your french bulldog wearing a coat. It will protect them from health problems and they will be more uncomfortable in the cold without a coat than they will be while wearing a coat. Not all dog breeds require a coat, but I would say french bulldogs definitely do.

Since their hair tends to shed, especially during these months, I would recommend having two coats for when one is in the wash. That way you will never have to walk your furry friend without a coat.

And there you have it, these are the best coats for french bulldogs!

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I recommend having a pinterest board to organize and save all of your bulldog research. Here is a pin you can save for when you need it:

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