How to Make a Dog Raincoat

Rain or shine, dogs need their exercise and fresh air. However, in inclement weather this is harder for them to enjoy. Dogs like going out into the rain without a raincoat about as much as their owners do: their fur gets soaked, they start to shiver and their discomfort is more likely to inhibit them from taking care of their bathroom needs outside. You can prevent this situation by crafting a raincoat for your dog. Making your dog a raincoat is not just a way to pamper him, it will also save you some money: raincoats for dogs at pet supply stores can be pricey.

Things You'll Need

  • Flexible tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Paper
  • Pattern
  • Vinyl cloth or waterproof fabric
  • Pins
  • Needle
  • Thread
  • Velcro tabs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure from the top of your dog's spine, just below the head, to the top of the breastbone. Write down this measurement.

    • 2

      Measure from the top of the dog's spine, by the collar, to the base of the tail. Write down the measurement.

    • 3

      Convert your dog's measurements to the raincoat pattern at interweave.com. Click on "weave" at the top right-hand corner of the screen and then "Free Projects and Articles" on the left side of the following page. Click on "5 to 8 Shafts" in the middle of the following page and then "Canine Couture" in the middle of the next page. Keep in mind that each square is 1 inch by 1 inch.

    • 4

      Cut out the pattern according to your dog's measurements and pin it to your fabric. Cut the fabric, following around the pattern.

    • 5

      Remove the pins and place the fabric on your dog to test the length and width. Make adjustments if necessary.

    • 6

      Sew Velcro tabs to the flaps of the raincoat, according to the pattern. Your raincoat is now ready for your dog to wear.