Why Long Waterproof Coats are Perfect for Dog Walkers

Why a Long Coat is the Best Dog Walking Coat

We all know that dogs don’t check the weather forecast. To them, every day is an adventure waiting to happen!

Unfortunately, that often means we’re out there in horizontal rain, clutching an umbrella in one hand and a lead in the other, silently regretting our wardrobe choices...

That is, of course, until you treat yourself to a long waterproof coat. Although this style of dog walking coat is likely familiar, its true value might not be.

A long waterproof coat can be the difference between trudging through a miserable, wet walk and feeling genuinely prepared every time you pick up the lead. With the right coat, soggy jeans, biting wind, and muddy splashes become problems of the past. Instead, you get the freedom to enjoy your walks, stay comfortable in any weather, and even look good while you’re at it.

So, whether you’re tired of freezing mid-walk, frustrated by rain creeping in where it shouldn’t, or simply looking for a coat that can keep up with your dog’s enthusiasm, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore why a waterproof long coat might be your best walking companion yet - well, after your dog, of course!

All Weather Protection

Rain, wind, mud - us dog walkers know it’s all part of the package. But the right coat makes your life easier. And what we mean by right coat here is one that takes the brunt of the weather, so you don't have to.

By choosing a waterproof long coat, you get all this fantastic protection on your daily walks:

• Rain: The extra length keeps your thighs (and bum!) dry when the rain comes sideways - something shorter waterproof jackets just can’t manage.
• Wind: If you’re walking through open fields or along windy streets, you know how quickly that chill can cut through you; particularly in a shorter coat. A lot of the long raincoats in our range come prepared for this, with windproof materials - and room to layer with fleece gilets underneath in cold weather.
• Mud: You know the drill. Your dog sees a puddle, and before you can shout, "No!" they’re in it - tail wagging, mud flying. And guess who’s getting splattered in the process? That’s right! A long coat shields you from those unexpected “mud showers” so you can laugh it off instead of groaning about the clean-up.

It ticks all the boxes for functionality, particularly if you live somewhere known for lots of wet weather!

Freedom of Movement

Long coats sometimes get a bad rap for being restrictive, but modern designs have come a long way (pun intended).

The Lighthouse Stockman Mens Long Waterproof Coat, for example, comes with:

• Adjustable back walking vent to give you extra flexibility when you’re on the move.
• Adjustable walking leg straps to help keep your coat secure in windy weather.
• Two way zips that mean you can adjust the coat for better movement and ventilation.

And the same goes for the ladies version, the Lighthouse Outback Full Length Ladies Waterproof Raincoat.

So, although you do have the longer length of coat itself, you can still keep up with your dog – whether you’re playing tug-of-war or running after your pup who’s found a squirrel to chase. Which then leads us nicely into...

Breathability

Walking the dog isn’t exactly a slow-paced outdoor activity - or, at least, it isn't with my pup!

You’re constantly on the go, which means you need a coat that keeps you dry without making you overheat. High-quality long coats often come with breathable fabrics and ventilated linings, so you stay comfortable, even when you’re working up a sweat.

For example, our beautiful Baleno Womens Kensington Long Waterproof Coat (Gents version: Baleno Mens Livingstone Long Waterproof Coat) has an impressive breathability rating of 3,000 g/m², plus all kinds of brilliant features to help keep you cool, including ventilation under the arms.

So you can focus on enjoying the walk (and not how sticky you feel) while your dog does what they do best: run around like they’re in the best mood ever.

Pockets

Treats, poo bags, a ball (or three), your phone, keys, maybe a spare lead. Oh, and maybe that random stick your canine friend insists you hold?

That’s why a good long waterproof coat comes with plenty of deep pockets. Big ones. Zippable ones. Maybe not quite Mary Poppins bag style ones, but you see what we mean!

We love the Jack Murphy Malvern Ladies Waterproof Bush Coat (Gents version: Jack Murphy Lambourne Men's Long Bush Coat) for its multiple pocket design, including two waist pockets, internal pocket, and mobile phone pocket. These pockets are a dog walker’s dream. No more stuffing your coat full of random items and hoping they won’t fall out halfway down the road. Everything has its place, and more importantly, it stays there.

Style

Ideally, we all want an outer layer that doesn’t make you feel like you’ve stepped out in your “dog-walking uniform.”

So, in our selection we've focused on:

• Flattering Fits & Variety of Styles: Forget the old idea that waterproof coats are shapeless or bulky. They’re tailored in all the right places, so you look put-together, even if you’re covered in muddy paw prints by the end of the walk!
• Gorgeous Colours: Whether you lean toward classic shades like navy or olive or prefer something brighter to lift your mood on grey days, there’s something for everyone.
• Footwear-Friendly Design: A key part of picking the perfect coat is making sure it works with your footwear. After all, most of us are pairing our dog walking coats with wellies or country boots. The length of a long coat is ideal, as it usually (depending on your height) sits just around the top of a pair of wellies, so you don't have to worry about the rain or mud on your legs.

We have to think about the everyday moments that come with dog walking too: the errands you run before or after the park, the unexpected chats with neighbours, and the times you stop off for a coffee because, well, you deserve it. A stylish coat makes us feel good as we head out the door, and a long coat is a fantastic choice for doing just that.

Summary

By now, you can probably imagine just how much more enjoyable your dog walks will be with a long waterproof coat by the door. British weather will faze you no more - or, at least, not all the time...

So, if you're ready to add one to your dog walking wardrobe, we've got a wide range to choose from in our men's and women's long waterproof coat collections, with all the protection, flexibility, practical features, and style we've mentioned here. Your dog gets their adventure, you stay dry and comfortable, and everyone goes home happy. It's a no-brainer!

About the Author

Sarah Holland lives in the British countryside and has a serious love for coats—the collection in her wardrobe is proof! She’s always on the lookout for outerwear that combines practical features for the outdoors with a style that you actually want to wear, believing a good waterproof coat should be your go-to for both comfort and looking good. Now, she’s here to share her insights and help you discover your next perfect coat.