When I was looking for a new dog coat for my one-year-old Mini Texas Heeler, Maddie, I wasn’t certain what brand or style would suit her best. Although her body shape is fairly average, she is small and doesn’t have much fur. Maddie is my baby and I want to be sure she is comfortable and warm doing her favorite things: playing Frisbee in the snow and helping me feed the cows.
She does barn chores with me twice each day. You know farm life—chores can range from 35 minutes to 2 hours or more, depending on the work needed on that particular day. This means she is sitting in the barn on a cement floor in frigid temps. Maddie stays warm and cozy in her Expedition Parka by Hurtta, which was specifically designed for short-haired dogs and dog breeds without an undercoat (it also works well for senior dogs).
The coat’s coverage on the hind end, neck, and chest areas were the primary reasons I chose the Expedition Parka. It has a nice fit around the front legs too, with stretchy material along the edge allowing for freedom of movement which she definitely needs! Maddie loves to play in the snow and help with barn chores, but without a quality dog coat, she would be freezing.
My pup plays rough and rolls a lot. The unique exterior fabric is windproof and waterproof, yet it still remains flexible and comfortable. Maddie is extremely active and athletic, so flexible fabric and a secure fit is a must.
For me, the coverage, insulation, and durability are the main reasons that I purchased the Expedition Parka. However, this coat does take a few minutes to put on due to the few steps involved in suiting up your dog. I truly think that the time spent putting on the coat is worth it because it has the best coverage for long periods of time outside. At first, Maddie was wary, the leg loops were especially challenging. But after three or four times having it taken on and off she now understands and does it with ease! I think she now appreciates how warm it keeps her.
This is a heavy-duty dog coat! Pups that go on winter hikes or head to the barn each day will really get ideal use of this coat. I don’t think it’s necessarily a must-have for those sending their dog out for a quick potty break, but if any length of time is spent outdoors in the frigid winter weather, it is a must-have. I am very impressed with the superior quality, and ease of comfort the Expedition Parka provides Maddie. I highly recommend this coat to dog owners who spend significant amounts of time enjoying the great outdoors with their four-legged companion.
Morgan has been with The Cheshire Horse for close to nine years. Her favorite part of the job is helping educate customers and learning more about canine and feline nutrition. When not working, Morgan enjoys spending time with her significant other, Cory, and their Mini-Texas Heeler, Maddie. She also loves going to fairs, hiking, camping, and crafts/painting.