Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link & purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
[UPDATED October 2022]
Planning on dressing your big dog up for the holidays this year? This list of Christmas sweaters for large dogs will give you every reason to include your beloved pooch in the family Christmas sweater photo!
The holiday season is here and that means dressing your dog up in a Christmas sweater.
Not all Christmas sweaters have to be ugly, they can be cute and festive and actually keep your large dog warm and comfy.
However, if your goal is to dress your dog in an ugly Christmas sweater this year, that’s included here too.
I’ve also included some human and dog-matching sweaters for extra cuteness!
Let’s get to the list, shall we?
Top 8 Christmas Sweaters For Large Dogs
1. Cable Knit Turtleneck Dog Sweater by KOOLTAIL
This festive holiday sweater from KOOLTAIL will certainly have your dog looking classicly adorable. White snowflakes are patterned throughout this warm sweater.
Made of high-quality 100% acrylic fabric, this sweater is soft to the touch and comfortable for your dog to wear. Plus, it has a bit of stretch to it, making it easy to put on and remove.
Not only will your dog look cute wearing this, but it will also keep your dog warm and cozy on those chilly days.
The leash hole opening on the back allows your dog to wear it while out walking.
This sweater is a pullover style that features a ribbed turtleneck. The quality of this sweater is great, it’s not too thick or too thin.
It can be machine-washed and tumble-dried on low. Even after numerous washings, the colours still look great.
Important to note is that many owners mention that this sweater runs big, and the turtleneck tends to stretch out.
Available in 4 different sizes, and in navy or pink.
Key Features:
- Fun winter sweater in a classic snowflake pattern.
- Pullover style, easy to put on and take off.
- 100% Acrylic fabric.
- Soft and warm, comfortable for your dog to wear.
- Leash hole opening on the back.
- Large size measures: 17-22″ Neck, 28-30.75″ Chest, 20″ Back Length.
- Available in Navy or Pink.
2. Elf Sweater By BOBIBI
This knit sweater features a cute Elf design on the back. It is a pullover-style sweater that is easy to put on and take off.
Your dog will look cute and festive wearing this. Made of 100% acrylic fibres, this sweater is easy to wear and has some stretch to it.
Fun holiday-coloured pom-poms complete the Elf design on this sweater. The pom-poms could be a hazard if your dog is a chewer, so be aware of this.
This sweater is available in 5 sizes, and XL is the largest size.
It is recommended to order a size up if your dog is in between sizes, as this sweater tends to run small.
Key Features:
- Elf design with pom-poms on the back.
- Made of 100% Acrylic fibres, it is stretchable.
- Soft and warm, comfortable for your dog to wear.
- Hand washing is recommended.
- XL size measures: 16.5″ Neck, 23.6″ Chest, 18.5″ Back Length.
3. PAWZ Road Dog Plaid Shirt Coat Hoodie Upgraded Version
Okay technically this isn’t an actual sweater, but I had to include it on the list because of its fun holiday design.
Your dog would not only look cute and stylish wearing this hoodie but it would actually keep him or her nice and warm.
This hoodie coat features a red checkered pattern that is very fitting for Christmas.
This upgraded version has a soft and warm Sherpa fleece lining inside to keep your dog warm during those cold winter walks.
It is easy to put on and take off with snap button closures. The hood can be detached by undoing the snap buttons, so your dog can wear it with or without.
Ribbed cuffs and hem help to keep this coat snug and secure and prevent cold wind from blowing in.
This coat is machine washable and features a leash hole opening.
It is important to measure your dog properly to ensure the right fit. Chest length is the most important factor to consider when selecting the right size. This coat is true to size.
Key Features:
- Red checkered design, also available in Blue and Gray.
- Warm Sherpa fleece lining keeps your dog warm.
- Snap button closures make it easy to put on and take off.
- Detachable hood.
- Ribbed cuffs and hem ensure a secure fit to keep the wind out.
- Machine washable.
- Leash hole opening.
- True to size. Make sure to measure properly.
- A variety of sizes is available, up to 5XL.
4. Boyfriend Dog Sweater by Chilly Dog
The Boyfriend Dog Sweater by Chilly Dog is hand-knit out of 100% wool. This sweater will definitely keep your dog toasty warm during those cold winter walks.
Because it is made out of wool, it shouldn’t be worn during wet weather. I’m sure you know how heavy wool can get when it’s exposed to water.
Chilly Dog Sweaters are of high quality and are proudly hand-made by Artisan Knitters. They are some of the warmest and best quality dog sweaters you can find!
Sweaters are made using plant dyes, and because each sweater is handmade, they will vary slightly in colour and style.
This sweater comes in various sizes to fit any dog. The largest size available is XXXL which would be suitable for dogs who weigh 80-120 pounds.
You can wash this sweater in the washing machine in cold water on a gentle cycle. Just don’t put it in the dryer, hang it up to dry.
Key Features:
- Made of 100% wool and plant dyes.
- Hand knit.
- Various sizes are available.
- High quality and very warm.
- Machine washable on cold gentle cycle.
- The largest size is 3XL, suitable for dogs 80-120 pounds.
5. PUPTECK Plaid Style Dog Sweater
The PUPTECK Plaid Style Dog Sweater features a classic red and black plaid pattern and a black ribbed knit neck, cuffs and hem.
This sweater is not only festive but will keep your pup nice and warm on those chilly walks.
It is a pullover style, which makes this sweater easy to put on and take off.
There is a leash/harness hole opening on the back for you to easily attach a leash for walking.
This sweater is durable, well-made, comfortable and warm. It is made of 100% Dacron, which is known for its warmth retention and comfort.
There is a bit of stretch to this sweater, to give it an easy fit.
You can easily wash this sweater in the washing machine and tumble dry it on low.
A few owners have mentioned that even after numerous washings, this sweater has not faded or lost its texture, it is still as soft and comfortable as when it was new.
Key Features:
- Classic plaid-style sweater.
- Round comfortable neck.
- Stretchy fit.
- Pullover style, easy to put on and take off.
- Leash/Harness hole opening on the back.
- Durable and warm.
- Made of 100% Dacron.
- Machine washable and drier friendly.
- Available in various sizes, Large is the biggest available.
6. Blueberry Pet Fair Isle Dog Sweater
This sweater from Blueberry Pet will have your dog looking absolutely sweet. There are 9 patterns available to choose from all in feminine colours.
Your dog will look like a princess and stay warm and cozy too.
The best part is that you can order a matching sweater for yourself! That way you and your furry best friend can wear coordinating outfits, perfect for a holiday photo opportunity.
Made of 100% acrylic material, this sweater is soft, lightweight and easy to care for.
Just machine wash it on a cold gentle cycle. It is well-made and nice and thick so it will last a long time.
It is a pullover style making it easy to put on and take off.
The turtleneck is ribbed knit as well as the cuffs and hem. The leash hole opening on the back allows you to easily use a leash or harness while walking your dog.
This sweater is available in various sizes, with a 20″ back length being the largest size. This sweater fits true to size, and the size chart is accurate. Be sure to measure your dog properly.
Key Features:
- 100% soft acrylic material.
- Pullover style with ribbed turtleneck, cuffs and hem.
- Various fair isle patterns.
- Various sizes are available.
- Thick and well-made high-quality sweater.
- Machine washable.
- Matching Men’s and Women’s sweaters are available separately.
7. Blueberry Pet Nordic Fair Isle Dog Sweater
I’m just loving these sweaters from Blueberry Pet. This navy blue sweater has a fun argyle pattern, perfect for those stylish male dogs.
It is available in various sizes, with a 20″ back length being the largest. You can even get a matching sweater for the Dog Dad.
This sweater features a leash/harness hole on the back so that you can walk your dog in style, and he will stay warm and comfortable.
It is made of soft 100% acrylic and it is nice and thick and of high quality. It is easy to care for, simply machine wash it on a cold gentle cycle.
The ribbed neck, cuffs, and hem add to the style of this sweater and gives it a secure fit. This sweater is true to size, just be sure to measure your dog properly.
Key Features:
- 100% soft acrylic material.
- Pullover style with ribbed neck, cuffs, and hem.
- Various patterns.
- Various sizes are available.
- Thick, well-made high-quality sweater.
- Machine washable.
- Matching Men’s sweaters are available separately.
8. Lanyar Red Christmas Reindeer Sweater
This soft knit 100% acrylic sweater from Lanyar features a festive reindeer print in a classic red and white colour.
Your dog will look stylish and be nice and warm wearing this. It is well-made and of nice thick material.
It is easy to put on and take off as it is a pullover style. As with all acrylic sweaters, this one is easy to care for. Simply machine wash it on a cold gentle cycle and hang it to dry.
This sweater is available in various sizes, with XXL being the largest size. It tends to run small so it is recommended to order a size up.
Key Features:
- 100% soft acrylic knit.
- Pullover style with ribbed neck, cuffs and hem.
- Well-made, high-quality material.
- Machine wash on a cold gentle cycle.
- Fun festive reindeer pattern in classic red and white.
7 Benefits Of Dog Sweaters [Besides Looking Festive]
Dressing your dog up in a festive Christmas sweater will certainly make him look cute and adorable for that Christmas photo.
But, sweaters can actually be very beneficial to your dog.
Here are 7 benefits:
1. Keeps Your Dog Warm
When the temperatures drop we certainly feel the chill and tend to put on layers of clothes.
Well, don’t forget about your dog. Your dog gets chilly too, and could probably benefit from wearing a sweater.
While there are some breeds that are designed for cold weather (think Husky), there are other breeds that don’t tolerate cold weather too well.
Dogs with only one layer of coat will tend to get colder compared to dogs with a double coat.
Young dogs, elderly dogs, and dogs who are sick tend to have trouble withstanding the colder temperatures.
Thin dogs as well such as Greyhounds and Whippets will benefit from wearing a sweater because they have more difficulty generating and retaining body heat of their own.
Signs that your dog is cold include the obvious shivering, snuggling up next to you to keep warm, whimpering, whining, cold ears, and curling up to name a few.
Another way to keep your dog extra warm while walking this winter is by protecting his paws from the elements with dog boots!
2. Comforts Dogs With Arthritis
If you have a dog who suffers from Arthritis, a sweater is just one of the many ways you can keep your dog more comfortable in the winter.
Another way to ease your dog’s Arthritis pain is to invest in a comfortable and supportive orthopedic dog bed.
3. Some Dogs Love Wearing Clothes!
While there are some dogs who just hate the idea of wearing clothes or being dressed up, there are actually quite a few dogs who like it.
If you are lucky to own a dog like this, then you can dress your dog up in pretty much anything you like.
Dogs who seem to enjoy wearing sweaters will often parade around and want to show off to everyone how stylish they look.
The trick to getting your dog used to wearing clothes is to start them young (when they are puppies).
4. Allows You To Keep The Heat Down
Putting a sweater on your dog when the temperatures drop allows you to keep the heat down inside your house. This, in turn, will save you energy and money.
5. Provides Comfort
A sweater can be very comforting to your dog.
Sweaters should fit snugly around your dog, and the feeling of having something wrapped around your dog’s body can be very comforting and gives some dogs a sense of security.
6. Barrier Of Protection From Allergies
A sweater can act as a barrier to protect your dog from allergy symptoms.
Dogs who suffer from allergies will itch and scratch themselves and lick at spots that bother them.
Putting a sweater on your dog will make their skin less accessible, thus reducing any licking and scratching.
A sweater can also help to contain any pet dander from flying into the air and causing a flare-up in human allergies.
7. Minimizes Dog Hair Flying Around
Putting a sweater on your dog will help to minimize the amount of hair that ends up on your floors or furniture.
The sweater will help to contain all that hair that sheds, and it will be trapped inside the sweater, instead of all over your couch.
What To Consider When Buying Your Dog A Sweater
If you are thinking of buying your large dog a sweater, here are a few things you need to consider.
Style
There are many different styles of sweaters to choose from.
Some will have hoodies on them which can help to keep your dog’s ears warm during cold winter walks. Some sweaters have removable hoods that give your dog the option to wear them with or without.
Pullover-style sweaters are generally the most common type, and these are easy to put on and take off. They don’t have any buttons, velcro straps or zippers that you need to fumble with, or that your dog will chew.
Sweaters with snap buttons or velcro closures can be easier to put on your dog and you might prefer this option.
Material
When it comes to choosing the best sweater for your dog, you want one that will be soft and comfortable.
A sweater should not feel rough or scratchy and cause irritation on your dog’s skin.
Acrylic is a great choice and is a pretty common material in dog sweaters. It is soft and warm and easy to care for.
Wool is a great choice for keeping your dog nice and warm. There really is nothing warmer than wool.
Wool, however, does not do well in wet conditions and shouldn’t be worn when it is raining or snowing outside.
Getting A Proper Fit
Getting a sweater that fits your dog properly will make all the difference in your pooch actually wearing the sweater or not.
It is important to measure your dog to ensure the right fit. You want the sweater to fit snug but not tight. Most sweaters will have a sizing chart for you to reference to.
You will want to measure your dog’s neck, chest, waist, and length from the back of the neck to the tail.
If your dog is in between sizes it is a good idea to order the next size up.
Check out this article from WikiHow for easy ways to measure your dog for clothes.
Some sweaters are based on your dog’s weight as well.
It is a good idea to always read the reviews of the sweater to see how they fit. Some sweaters do have a tendency to run small, while others are true to size.
Collar/Harness Access
If you plan on having your dog just wear a Christmas sweater indoors or only for a family photo, then a collar or harness access hole will not be of importance to you.
However, if you want to walk your dog in his or her fancy-looking sweater then you will want one with a collar/harness hole on the back.
How Easy It Is To Put On
Let’s face it, if the sweater you choose for your dog is not easy to put on, your dog probably won’t be wearing it.
You don’t want to have to wrestle with your dog just to put a sweater on him, do you?
A sweater that is easy to put on will have some stretch to it and it shouldn’t be tight fitting.
Machine Washable
All of the sweaters mentioned in the list above are easy to care for.
They can be easily machine-washed in cold water and on a gentle cycle. Some, however, should not be put in the dryer.
A Few Safety Tips To Keep In Mind
Never Force Your Dog To Wear A Sweater!
If your dog has never worn any clothing at all in his lifetime, suddenly putting a sweater on your dog will likely cause him stress and anxiety.
You should never force your dog to wear a sweater just for your benefit.
If your dog shows any signs of discomfort you should remove the sweater immediately.
The Sweater Should Be Comfortable.
Comfort should be an important factor. The sweater you choose should be soft and comfortable on your dog’s skin and not cause any itching, rashes, or irritation.
The Sweater Should Not Be Tight Or Restrictive.
A sweater should fit snug and never tight.
It shouldn’t be tight in any areas where your dog feels like he is suffocating.
Some sweaters fit tighter around the neck and leg openings, and you need to be careful of this.
The sweater should not cover your dog’s genital area because it will get in the way when your dog has to go to the bathroom.
Wearing A Sweater Indoors Can Cause Overheating.
This is dependent on your dog’s breed, size, age, health, and indoor room temperature.
A heavy wool sweater, for instance, is too warm for your dog to wear inside and could cause your dog to overheat.
Dogs who have double coats such as a Golden Retriever will not need to wear a sweater indoors as they have a double layer of fur to keep them plenty warm.
Avoid Choking Hazards.
Some sweaters have buttons or velcro closures that could be hazardous to your dog. Puppies and dogs who like to chew could accidentally swallow a button and end up choking.
You should avoid these types of sweaters if you have a dog that chews. Also, zippers should be avoided because your dog’s fur could get caught in them.
Introduce The Sweater Slowly.
Most dogs will initially hate anything you put on them, unless you are lucky and have a dog who loves wearing clothes, or at least tolerates it right away.
The key is to let your dog wear the sweater for a few minutes to get used to it, then remove it.
You can repeat this process while slowly increasing your dog’s time spent wearing it. Eventually, your dog will get used to wearing a sweater and either enjoy it or tolerate it.
Final Thoughts
I hope you have enjoyed this selection of Christmas sweaters for large dogs.
There are so many sweaters on the market today with most of them being aimed at small dogs, it is nice to see such a variety for large dogs too.
Christmas sweaters for dogs are not only cute and festive, but they actually keep your dog warm too. They also make a great gift for your dog from Santa!
Just remember to get the proper fitting sweater for your large dog, and he’ll be sure to feel comfortable and stylish.
If you’re planning on dressing your entire family up in ugly Christmas sweaters, there’s no excuse for you not to include your large-size dog.
With the matching human and dog sweater option, you could look extra adorable.
Be sure to check out my list of Christmas gifts for a dog to get you inspired for the holidays.
Will you be dressing your dog up in a Christmas sweater this year? Which Christmas sweater for large dogs is your favourite?
Share your thoughts and comments below. I would love to hear from you!
I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie.
Excellent post, Jenny. Thank you for sharing this article. I have a cocker spaniel, and he is closer to a large dog than a medium. He would suit some of these Christmas sweaters, and I think getting one for Christmas would be fantastic. Thank you for giving me ideas. Have a great day. Regards Vlad
Hi Vlad,
Most of the sweaters listed here come in various sizes that would suit smaller dogs as well. But, I chose these sweaters in particular because they are suitable for large dogs, as it is very difficult to find sweaters and clothes that fit larger dogs.
Thanks for stopping by,
Jenny.
Christmas is around the corner, so that means it’s time to start shopping for presents. I love the Scenereal sweater. However, it’s too big for my dog. Do you have any recommendations for smaller dogs? I have a Pomeranian, and she would look great in one of these sweaters.
Looking forward to your answer. Thanks for sharing.
Hi Enrique,
Actually, all of the sweaters that I have listed above do come in various sizes. I’m sure you would be able to get the Scenereal sweater in a size small, or suitable size for your Pomeranian. Please take a look, I’m sure she would look great wearing it!
Thanks for stopping by.
Jenny.
Great one here and a great selection of good sweaters for large dogs. I have a Labrador at home and she has been a very dear friend to me who has helped me to get past various situations. Hence, it is only normal for me to want to give something back in return to her during the season of love which is Christmas. Everything written here is okay by me and I might consider buying like two out of the listed here.
Hi Rodarrick,
It sounds like your Lab has really been a loyal and loving best friend to you. Dogs are really great that way! They always show us their love and affection, and it is holidays like Christmas that we should really show them how much we love them too! I am sure your Lab would appreciate any of the sweaters listed above.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Jenny.
Oh my, these Christmas sweaters for dogs are too cute, providing of course that your pooch doesn’t have an aversion to being dressed like that.
I especially love the red and white reindeer one, and I think it looks really festive. What a great way to have your dog get that Xmas feeling along with the family.
You say it is best to start your dog wearing sweaters when he is a pup. Do you know of the best way to train a five-year-old dog to wear his jersey? I just feel sorry for him as he gets soooo cold sometimes.
Hi Michel,
You will find that most dogs really don’t enjoy wearing clothes, or at least hate it at first. Getting any dog to wear a coat, or sweater or even dog boots can be a real chore especially when they are not used to it. It is true that it is easier to start them young while they are puppies, but you can still get an older dog to get used to wearing clothing.
To get your 5-year-old dog used to wearing his jersey, I would put it on him for a few minutes a day and take it off. You may want to offer him a reward for wearing it like treats or affection. That way he will associate the jersey with good things. You can slowly increase the time that he wears the jersey each day until he gets used to it. Hopefully, then your dog will like wearing the jersey or at least tolerate it. If your dog realizes that the jersey helps keep him warm, he might be willing to wear it.
Just make sure that he is comfortable wearing it. If your dog shows any signs of discomfort, I would take it off him and not force it. Hope this helps you out. Good luck.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Jenny.
I love love love this blog post. Oh, it makes me blush cause how cute these dogs are. Yes, I am a man and I love how cute these dogs look. I am about to adopt my first ever pet and it will be a Doberman and I am soooo excited. I love this blog because it not only gives tips about how to raise and care for my dog but also shows some amazing sweaters I can put her in. Thank you for the organization and the clear layout of this post as it made for an easy read. Good Luck
Hi Ian,
What exciting news for you that you are about to adopt a Doberman. Just think how cute and adorable your dog would look in one of these sweaters! I am so glad you enjoyed this post, and love how cute these sweaters are. Dobermans have short fur and could really benefit from a nice warm sweater during the cold winter. Just remember to introduce any clothing to your dog slowly.
Thanks for stopping by, and all the best to you on your new Dog Dad adventure.
Jenny.
Since Christmas is coming rather rapidly and to be in the full swing of the mood and to partake in the joy of the moment, getting our fur friend sweaters to help prevent them from cold during this period is germane. Thank you so much for sharing all these sweaters and surely, it is all well worth seeing. However, I love the Chilly Dog Boyfriend Dog Sweater. It looks rather awesome to behold. Thanks.
Hi Rodarrick,
Christmas will be here before we know it. Time sure flies! The Chilly Dog Boyfriend Sweater is a great choice, and because it is made of 100% wool it will keep your dog warm while out walking in the cold winter.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts.
Jenny.