A dog coat is not only a fashionable accessory but also practical protection against cold, rain, and wind. A well-chosen piece keeps your dog warm, protects its joints, and makes walks more comfortable – especially during the autumn-winter season. However, for the dog coat to serve its purpose in the long term, proper cleaning and care are important.
Good news: it’s not complicated, just a few basic rules need to be followed.
How often should you wash the dog coat?
This mostly depends on how often and under what conditions you use it. After a muddy, rainy walk, it’s understandable if it needs immediate washing, while after a dry, short city walk, airing it out might be enough.
General rule:
- with regular use, it’s worth washing every 1–2 weeks,
- heavily soiled coats should always be washed immediately,
- if only slightly dirty, a quick cleaning or airing might suffice.
It’s important not to wait until the dirt “sets” into the fabric – this way the coat stays beautiful and functional longer.
Washing: gentle but thorough
Dog coats often have special materials: water-repellent, lined, or stretchy, so too harsh washing can damage them. Always check the label before washing, but if there is no special instruction, it’s advisable to follow these:
- Wash at low temperature (around 30 °C)
- Use a gentle cycle
- Turn the coat inside out
- Avoid strong spinning
Choose a fragrance-free, gentle detergent. Strong scents and chemicals can irritate your dog’s skin, especially if it’s more sensitive.
Avoid using fabric softener – although it smells nice to us, it’s not always friendly to dogs’ skin.
Drying – it matters how
Most dog coats do not like tumble dryers. High heat can damage the fabric, seams, and the water-repellent layer.
The best solution:
- air drying,
- at room temperature,
- laid flat or on a hanger.
Do not place on a radiator or in direct sunlight – the coat may lose its shape and wear out faster.
Small repairs, big difference
It’s worth checking the dog coat from time to time: whether a seam has loosened, or a Velcro or elastic has worn out. A small repair is much easier than replacing a completely ruined piece.
If the coat is still clean but the Velcro is full of hair, it can be easily cleaned with a small brush or tweezers – this way it will close properly again.
Storage – matters even off-season
When the dog coat is not needed, store it clean and dry. The best is if you:
- don’t crumple it,
- store it in a well-ventilated place,
- avoid heavy objects pressing on it.
This way you can take it out in good condition next season as well.
Care is in the details
A well-maintained, clean dog coat is not only more beautiful but also more comfortable and healthier for your dog. At Brizlo, we believe that quality and care go hand in hand – and with a little attention, your favorite pieces will accompany you on many walks together.
Because your dog deserves to feel good – in every season.