Product Review: Ruffwear Climate Changer Jacket

The Ruffwear Climate Changer is a jacket made from recycled polyester fleece, and can be used as a base layer or on its own. It is machine washable and has a zipper on the side rather than on the top or bottom. This year's Climate Changer comes in three colors and six sizes to fit dogs measuring 13.25-35.75" from neck to tail.

Photo by Erin Koski

This is a serious jacket for serious dogs, fortunately they make it in tinydog size, too. These jackets are more popular in places that have actual weather and seasons instead of perfect beach days year-round. The only other Climate Changer I've seen in person was on a friend from Minnesota's dog. It's toasty for our occasional chilly mornings, but Ru could just live in it year-round.

Most sweaters for tiny dogs are designed to be cute, and maybe convenient. This one is actually intended to keep the dog warm in places where the temperature can drop below freezing.

Photo by Erin Koski

The Climate Changer is also designed to allow freedom of movement while staying in place. The sleeves keep Ru's tiny armpits warm, and he loves the thick fleece.

Pros: Designed specifically to keep the dog warm during physical activity. Fast-drying fleece is super thick and super warm. Well-placed zipper allows for easy access while requiring minimal flexibility.

Cons: Wide neck allows the jacket to slip down the dog's shoulders. I really wish it had a drawstring or something, Ru occasionally slithers out of it when he's lounging on the couch.

Bottom Line: This jacket is serious overkill for Central California weather, which is why Ru loves it. It's a great way to keep a short-haired dog toasty.