To wash a dog coat or jumper correctly, remove loose mud and hair, check the care label, fasten clips and straps, then use only the washing method, temperature and drying process approved for that garment. A knitted jumper, fleece layer, padded coat and waterproof shell may all need different treatment, so there is no single safe setting for every item.
Cleaning matters for more than appearance. Dampness, road dirt, hair and grit can collect around seams and fastenings, while unsuitable washing products or excessive heat may damage fabric, padding, reflective details or a weather-resistant finish. Careful maintenance can help the garment remain comfortable and functional for longer.
If you are still deciding which type of layer you own or need, read our comparison of a dog jumper vs dog coat for UK weather. For sizing and fit, use our guide to measuring your dog for a coat correctly.
What to check before washing a dog coat or jumper
Start with the garment, not the washing machine. Turn it inside out if possible and inspect the entire item under good light.
- Care label: Find the permitted washing temperature, cycle and drying method.
- Material: Note whether the item is knitted, fleece, padded, weather-resistant or made from mixed fabrics.
- Fastenings: Check zips, hook-and-loop strips, poppers, clips and buckles for damage.
- Loose parts: Look for frayed straps, stretched elastic, exposed stitching and detached reflective trim.
- Heavy dirt: Identify dried mud, oily marks, road salt or other areas that may need careful pretreatment.
- Trapped hair: Inspect seams, lining, hook-and-loop fasteners and the neck and chest areas.
- Odour or dampness: Do not leave a wet garment folded in a basket or sealed bag.
If the label is missing or unreadable, contact the retailer or manufacturer with the product name. Avoid guessing a hot wash or tumble-dry setting, especially for coated fabrics, wool-rich knits, padding or glued reflective elements.
How to read a dog-clothing care label
Textile-care symbols communicate the maximum permitted treatment. GINETEX explains that the number inside a wash-tub symbol gives the maximum washing temperature in degrees Celsius, while bars below it indicate a milder or very mild cycle. A hand in the tub means hand-washing; a crossed-out tub means the article should not be washed domestically.
| Label information | What it means | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Wash-tub number | Maximum permitted wash temperature | Higher heat may shrink or damage unsuitable fabrics |
| One or two bars below the tub | Mild or very mild mechanical action | Use the corresponding gentle programme |
| Hand in wash tub | Hand-wash only | Ordinary machine agitation may be too strong |
| Crossed-out wash tub | Do not wash domestically | Ask the manufacturer how the item should be cleaned |
| Square with a circle | Tumble-drying guidance | Dots indicate permitted heat; a cross means do not tumble dry |
| Square with lines | Natural drying method | May specify line, drip or flat drying and whether shade is required |
Follow any written product instructions as well as the symbols. A technical outer fabric may have treatment-specific directions that are not obvious from its appearance.
Quick dog-coat care guide by garment type
| Garment type | Main care risk | Safe starting approach |
|---|---|---|
| Knitted jumper | Shrinking, stretching or losing shape | Use the exact label temperature and drying method; reshape gently if instructed |
| Fleece jumper or coat | Heat damage, trapped hair and odour | Remove hair first and use the approved gentle cycle or hand wash |
| Padded coat | Clumped filling and incomplete drying | Follow the label and make sure the interior is fully dry before storage |
| Water-resistant or waterproof coat | Damage to membranes, coatings or water-repellent finish | Follow the manufacturer’s technical-care instructions precisely |
| Reflective coat | Peeling, cracking or reduced reflectivity | Avoid unapproved heat and harsh treatment; inspect after cleaning |
| Coat with harness attachment | Damage to load-bearing seams or hardware | Inspect attachment points before and after washing and follow product instructions |
This table is a preparation guide, not a replacement for the label. Two garments that look similar can use different fibres, coatings, adhesives or construction.
How to prepare a muddy dog coat for washing
1. Let thick mud dry when appropriate
If the garment instructions allow, let heavy surface mud dry in a ventilated place away from the dog, then brush or shake off as much as possible outdoors. Putting a heavily caked item directly into the machine can spread dirt and leave grit around fastenings.
Do not delay if the garment has contacted a substance that may be harmful or corrosive. Keep your dog away from the item and seek product-specific or veterinary advice when exposure is uncertain.
2. Remove loose hair
Use a suitable clothes brush, lint roller or gloved hand. Pay attention to fleece linings, seams and hook-and-loop closures. Removing hair before wetting the fabric usually makes the wash more effective.
3. Empty and inspect every pocket
Remove poo bags, treats, tissues and accessories. Check for embedded twigs, grass seeds and small stones, particularly around folds and hems.
4. Secure approved fastenings
Unless the garment instructions say otherwise, close zips, secure hook-and-loop panels and fasten loose straps so they do not catch or abrade other parts of the item. Covering hook surfaces can also reduce the amount of lint they collect.
5. Treat marks cautiously
Use only a treatment compatible with the label and fabric. Test any approved product on an inconspicuous area first. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can roughen knitted fibres, damage reflective print or wear a coated surface.
How to machine-wash a dog coat or jumper
Machine-wash only when the label permits it.
- Remove loose dirt, hair and debris.
- Repair serious damage before washing or stop using the item.
- Close the approved fastenings and secure straps.
- Choose the temperature and cycle shown on the label.
- Use the type and amount of cleaning product recommended by the manufacturer.
- Avoid overloading the drum; the garment needs room to rinse.
- Use an extra rinse only when the product guidance allows or detergent remains.
- Remove the item promptly after the cycle.
- Reshape it gently if required and dry exactly as directed.
Washing a dog garment separately from human bedding and clothing may be sensible when it is heavily soiled. Clean the machine filter or drum afterwards when necessary and follow the appliance manufacturer’s hygiene instructions.
How to hand-wash a dog jumper or coat
Hand-washing can reduce mechanical action, but it is not automatically safe for every garment. Continue only if the label permits it.
- Fill a clean basin with water at the temperature stated on the label.
- Dissolve the approved amount of suitable detergent before adding the garment.
- Submerge the item gently and move it through the water without harsh rubbing.
- Pay light attention to visibly dirty areas rather than twisting or scrubbing.
- Rinse thoroughly at a compatible temperature until residue is gone.
- Press water out gently if permitted; do not wring or stretch the fabric.
- Reshape and dry according to the label.
GINETEX advises careful agitation rather than rubbing, pulling or wringing hand-wash items. Heavy wet knits can stretch under their own weight, which is why some labels specify flat drying.
How to clean a water-resistant or waterproof dog coat
The terms “water-resistant” and “waterproof” describe different levels of protection, and the construction varies between brands. Some coats use a coated fabric; others combine an outer face, membrane and lining. The safest instructions come from the garment manufacturer.
Do not assume ordinary laundry products are suitable
Technical outerwear can have restrictions on powders, fabric conditioners, bleach, stain removers or dry cleaning. For example, GORE-TEX tells users to follow the garment manufacturer’s inner label and gives product-specific instructions about detergent, fastenings, rinsing, drying and water-repellent treatment. Those directions apply to the relevant GORE-TEX product—not automatically to every dog coat.
Check whether water still beads
If a coat was designed with a water-repellent outer finish and water no longer beads as expected, consult the original care instructions. Some products can be reproofed or heat-treated; others cannot. Using the wrong treatment may alter breathability, colour or fabric feel.
Inspect seams and closures
Cleaning cannot restore a torn shell, peeling seam tape or broken fastening. If water enters because the garment is damaged, repair or replace it according to the manufacturer’s guidance.
How to dry a dog coat or jumper correctly
Drying errors can cause as much damage as washing errors. Read the drying symbols before beginning.
Air drying
Some garments can be line-dried; others need to dry flat so they do not stretch. Place the item in a ventilated area away from the dog and direct intense heat. Turn thick or padded items as needed so moisture does not remain trapped.
Tumble drying
Use a tumble dryer only when the care label permits it, and follow the stated heat level. High temperatures can affect elastic, coatings, glued details, reflective elements or synthetic fibres.
Before the next wear
Check the lining, padding, seams and fastenings—not only the outer surface. The garment should be completely dry, odour-free and comfortable before it touches the dog’s skin and fur.
How to deal with mud, stains and odour
Mud
Remove loose dry mud first, then clean the item using its approved process. Repeated aggressive scrubbing can damage the surface without cleaning the inner layers properly.
Road salt and grit
Do not allow residues to remain around hems and belly panels. Rinse or wash as permitted by the product instructions, and check metal hardware for corrosion.
Persistent odour
First make sure the smell is not caused by incomplete drying. Rewash according to the label rather than masking odour with strongly scented sprays. Fragrance can also make it harder to notice continuing dampness or contamination.
Unknown substances
If the coat has contacted paint, fuel, antifreeze, chemicals or another potentially hazardous substance, prevent licking and keep the garment away from the dog. Contact your vet or the appropriate poisons service for advice about the dog, and ask the manufacturer whether the garment can be cleaned safely.
How often should you wash a dog coat or jumper?
There is no universal schedule. Wash frequency depends on how often the garment is worn, the weather, fabric, amount of dirt and the care instructions.
| Situation | Practical response |
|---|---|
| Light surface dust or a few hairs | Brush or wipe the garment if the instructions permit |
| Damp after rain but otherwise clean | Dry it fully before storage; wash only when needed |
| Muddy belly panel or straps | Spot-clean or wash according to the label |
| Strong odour, visible grime or road residue | Use the approved full-cleaning process |
| Contact with an unknown or hazardous substance | Remove it from use and seek appropriate advice |
Washing after every short wear may be unnecessary and can increase wear, but delaying when an item is dirty or damp can also reduce comfort. Inspect after each use and respond to the actual condition.
Remember to clean and dry your dog after a muddy walk
The garment is only part of post-walk care. Dogs Trust recommends wiping a dog’s legs, feet and belly after winter walks because road grit and dampness can irritate the skin.
- Remove the coat or jumper calmly.
- Check the fur and skin beneath straps, seams and belly panels.
- Wipe or rinse paws, legs and belly as appropriate.
- Dry the dog thoroughly, including between the toes.
- Check for redness, rubbing, trapped debris or damaged fur.
- Hang or lay the garment out to dry before deciding whether it needs washing.
Contact your vet if you find persistent redness, broken skin, swelling, pain or irritation. Changing detergent is not a substitute for assessing an uncomfortable dog.
Post-wash safety check before the next walk
Cleaning can reveal existing wear or occasionally damage a weak component. Before putting the garment back on your dog, check that:
- The fabric and lining are fully dry.
- No detergent residue or strong cleaning smell remains.
- Zips, clips, poppers and hook-and-loop panels close securely.
- Elastic has not stretched or tightened.
- Padding remains evenly distributed.
- Reflective panels are attached and undamaged.
- Seams, straps and any lead attachment point show no fraying or separation.
- The garment still fits without rubbing or restricting movement.
Puppies, changing body condition and thicker seasonal fur can alter fit even when the clothing has not shrunk. Recheck measurements when anything seems different.
Ten common dog-coat washing mistakes
- Ignoring the care label. Material and construction determine the safe process.
- Using the hottest wash for mud. Excess heat can shrink or damage unsuitable textiles.
- Washing with loose straps and open fastenings. They may catch, tangle or abrade the garment.
- Leaving thick mud and hair in place. Remove loose debris before wet cleaning.
- Using fabric conditioner automatically. Some technical garments specifically prohibit it.
- Scrubbing reflective or coated surfaces. Harsh friction can damage functional details.
- Wringing a knitted jumper. This can stretch and distort the shape.
- Tumble-drying without checking. A crossed-out dryer symbol means do not tumble dry.
- Storing the item slightly damp. Thick seams and padding can retain moisture after the surface feels dry.
- Skipping the fit check afterwards. Shrinkage, stretched elastic or shifted padding may change comfort.
Choosing dog clothing that is easier to care for
Before buying, look beyond colour and style. Check whether the care label is clear, whether mud-prone areas can be wiped easily, how long the item may take to dry and whether spare clothing will be needed while it is being washed.
Browse PAWABY’s dog coats and clothes, then review the materials, measurements and care instructions on the individual product page. For leads, harnesses and muddy-walk accessories, explore dog walking accessories.
Frequently asked questions
Can I put a dog coat in the washing machine?
Only if the care label permits machine-washing. Use the listed temperature, cycle and detergent guidance. Hand-wash or seek manufacturer advice when the label prohibits machine use or is missing.
What temperature should I wash a dog coat at?
Use the maximum temperature shown in the wash-tub symbol or written instructions. Do not choose a generic temperature because different coatings, fibres, padding and fastenings tolerate different treatment.
Can I use normal laundry detergent on dog clothes?
Use only a product compatible with the garment label and manufacturer’s directions. Technical waterproof fabrics may have specific detergent restrictions. Rinse thoroughly and do not leave residue against the dog’s skin.
Can I use fabric conditioner on a dog coat?
Not unless the manufacturer permits it. Fabric conditioner may be unsuitable for some technical or water-repellent garments. Check the inner label or contact the maker.
How do I wash a knitted dog jumper without shrinking it?
Follow the fibre-specific label exactly. Use the approved hand or machine cycle, avoid excess heat and dry it using the stated method. Some knits need to be reshaped and dried flat.
Can I tumble-dry a waterproof dog coat?
Only when the care label explicitly allows it. Some technical products use controlled tumble-drying as part of their care process, while others can be damaged by heat. Product-specific instructions take priority.
How can I remove the smell from a dog coat?
Clean it using the approved method, rinse properly and dry every layer completely. Persistent odour may indicate trapped dirt, detergent residue or incomplete drying. Avoid masking the smell with heavy fragrance.
Should I wash a new dog coat before first use?
Follow the manufacturer’s advice. First inspect the item, remove packaging and let your dog investigate it gradually. Washing unnecessarily before checking the care label could affect returns or alter a functional finish.
The bottom line
The correct way to wash a dog coat or jumper starts with the care label. Remove loose dirt and hair, inspect the garment, secure its fastenings and use only the approved temperature, cycle, detergent and drying method.
After cleaning, make sure every layer is fully dry and check the fit, seams, straps and hardware before the next walk. A clean garment should also remain safe, comfortable and suitable for the weather—not simply look fresh.
