FAQ
Understanding the Dogrobes kit
How does a Dogrobes drying coat work?
A Dogrobe dog drying robe works by absorbing moisture directly from your dog’s coat using our unique dual-loop cotton towelling. The longer loops on the inside draw water away from the fur, while your dog’s natural body heat helps speed up the drying process.
Because your dog wears the robe, drying continues hands-free rather than stopping after a few minutes of towel drying. The unique design gives generous coverage, including over the back end, and the adjustable ties ensure close contact with the fabric so it can absorb effectively.
You can find more detail about the design and fabric on our How Dogrobes Work page.
How long does it take for a Dogrobe drying coat to dry a dog?
Drying time varies depending on your dog’s coat type and how wet they are to begin with. The majority of dogs are dry in around 30 minutes when wearing a Dogrobe. Short-coated dogs often dry more quickly, while dogs with dense or double coats can take longer.
It’s always best to let your dog have a good shake first, as dogs naturally remove around 70% of the water themselves. The Dogrobe then absorbs the remaining moisture and continues drying while your dog relaxes.
Is a Dogrobe just a towel or does it replace dog towels?
No, a Dogrobe is not just a towel. It's designed to replace dog towels. Our dual-loop cotton towelling was specially developed for dogs to wear and is not the same as standard towelling.
The longer loops on the inside of the fabric draw moisture away from the dog’s coat while also trapping natural body heat to speed up drying. Because the towelling robe is worn, drying continues while your dog rests rather than stopping once towel drying ends.
The result is a more effective, easier and comfortable way to dry your dog after walks, swims or baths.
Why don't Dogrobes use Velcro fastenings?
We don’t use Velcro fastenings on our dog drying coats for several practical reasons. Velcro quickly becomes clogged with dog hair, which reduces its grip and makes the fastening less secure over time.
During washing, Velcro can also snag towelling fabric and cause unnecessary wear. Some dogs are unsettled by the noise of Velcro and it can catch or pull at fur and ears.
Instead, we use adjustable ties because they allow a snug fit to your dog’s exact girth, ensuring close contact with the fabric so the drying coat stays in place and dries effectively every time.
What's the difference between your fabric and microfibre?
Our towelling fabric is very different from microfibre. Dogrobes use a dual-loop fabric made primarily from cotton, with the long cotton inner loops doing the drying by pulling moisture away from the dog’s coat.
Microfibre is made from synthetic fibres and works by trapping water in tiny capillaries, which usually requires rubbing to be effective. In contrast, cotton naturally absorbs water on contact, meaning there is no need to rub a dog dry.
Because Dogrobes unique fabric is worn as a robe and stays in close contact with the fur, moisture is drawn away continuously while your dog rests.
How can I tell a genuine Dogrobe from cheaper alternatives?
The easiest way to spot a genuine Dogrobe is to check the fabric. Only Dogrobes® use a specially developed dual-loop towelling fabric with noticeably longer loops on the inside, where the drying happens.
Many alternatives, both cheaper and more expensive, use standard cotton towelling with the same loop length on both sides. This is far less effective at drawing moisture away from the dog’s coat and trapping body heat.
Our fabric was developed exclusively for us and specifically for dogs to wear.
Where are Dogrobes products made?
Dogrobes products are designed and made in Britain. Every Dogrobes product we make is manufactured here so we can maintain high standards of quality, fit and finish. It also allows us to keep close control over how our products are made and ensures consistency across our range.
Producing in Britain means we can work responsibly and support skilled manufacturing. Although manufacturing here costs more, it is an important part of who we are and how we do things. Read more on our Made in Britain page.
Can my dog move around, lie down and relax in a Dogrobe?
Yes, Dogrobes are designed to be non-restrictive and comfortable for dogs to wear. There are no awkward leg holes, clips or buckles to dig in and no Velcro to pop open. This allows dogs to move around freely, lie down and relax while wearing the robe.
The adjustable ties help the Dogrobe stay in place without restricting natural movement, making it suitable for resting at home, in the car or after walks and swims.
Which style of Dogrobe is right for my dog?
Choosing the right Dogrobe is straightforward and you can be confident that all styles are designed to dry, warm and comfort your dog effectively.
There are three Dogrobe styles - Original Dogrobe, Dogrobe MAX and Exclusive Dogrobe. All share the same trusted design features, including easy fit, non-restrictive coverage and exclusive dual-loop cotton towelling.
The Original Dogrobe is the classic dog drying robe that suits most breeds. The Exclusive Dogrobe provides the same trusted drying performance with distinctive patterned designs. The Dogrobe MAX offers extra coverage with a chest panel for long-haired dogs and shoulder darts for broader-chested dogs.
All styles slip easily over the head, tie securely and allow dogs to move freely without leg straps or Velcro. You can also see the key differences at a glance on our Compare Dogrobes page.
Why are Dogrobes single-layered and not double-layered?
Unlike many dog drying coats, Dogrobes use a single layer of our unique dual-loop towelling fabric. A second layer simply isn't needed. Our fabric is highly absorbent, helping to dry dogs quickly while remaining lightweight and comfortable to wear.
Double-layered coats become heavier when wet and take longer to dry after use. By using a single layer, Dogrobes are lighter for dogs to wear and soft enough to drape easily over the hindquarters for maximum drying coverage. Thanks to the dual-loop structure of our fabric, one layer can absorb as much - if not more - moisture than two layers of standard towelling. Learn more on the How Dogrobes Work page.
Do I need a Snood for my dog?
Many dogs benefit from a Snood, particularly after wet walks, swimming or bath times. A Dogrobes Snood is designed to dry your dog’s head, neck and ears, areas that often stay damp and take much longer to dry.
It is especially useful for dogs with long or heavy ears and for dogs with thick fur around the neck and head. Made from the same dual-loop cotton towelling as the Dogrobe, it’s a great add-on that complements your dog drying routine and helps reduce dripping, shake-off and wet dog smell.
Some owners also find the close-fitting design helps comfort dogs by limiting external noise during stressful times such as fireworks.
You can find out more on our Dog Snoods page.
Do I need Gauntlets for my dog?
Gauntlets are very useful if your dog regularly has wet or muddy legs and paws. Dogrobes Gauntlets are dog drying mitts designed to target muddy paws and legs, helping prevent dirty paw prints in your home and car.
Gauntlets are made from a double layer of the same super-absorbent cotton towelling as Dogrobes. They soak up moisture on contact while keeping your hands warm and dry. You can swap hands to use the other side to maximise drying.
They are ideal for a quick rub down after a light shower or as part of a complete dog drying routine.
Many dogs find Gauntlets less intimidating than towels, as they are worn like part of your clothing. Check out our Gauntlets page.
Sizing and fit
Do I need to measure my dog for a drying robe?
It’s worth measuring your dog to ensure the best fit, as Dogrobes are generously sized but true to the measurements shown in the size guide.
Dogrobes are available in ten sizes from Mini to XXXL and as they are made to last for years, it’s worth taking a little time now to get the size right.
The girth measurement - around the deepest part of the chest is the key measurement, with the back length used as a double-check. Breed size examples are a guide only and measuring your own dog is the most reliable way to choose the correct size.
If your dog is between sizes, sizing up is recommended.
See our Dogrobe Size Guide for full measuring instructions.
How do I choose the right Dogrobe size?
The most accurate way to choose the right size is to measure your dog and follow the Dogrobe Size Guide.
The girth measurement - around the deepest part of your dog’s chest, is the key measurement, with the back length used as a double-check.
If measuring isn’t possible, the size guide includes breed size examples for both Dogrobes and Snoods to help you choose.
If your dog is between sizes, sizing up is recommended.
What if my dog is between Dogrobe sizes?
If your dog is between sizes, sizing up is recommended to ensure proper coverage.
Check your dog’s back length from collar to base of tail, which should usually be a few inches shorter than the girth measurement. If your dog’s girth measurement is the same as or smaller than their back length and your dog does not have short legs (like a Dachshund), size up.
A little overlap of fabric under the belly is ideal for Original and Exclusive Dogrobes, as this area needs drying the most. With the Dogrobe MAX, the shaped chest panel means it still fits neatly when sizing up. Check out our Dogrobe Size Guide for more info.
My dog doesn't fit a standard size, do you do made to measure?
Yes, we do offer Made to Measure Dogrobes for dogs that don’t fit our standard sizes. We provide ten carefully graded sizes from Mini to XXXL, so it’s rare that a Made to Measure is needed.
If your dog's girth and back length don't fit our standard sizes, Made to Measure could be the answer. Bespoke dog drying coats are offered in the Original style only and deliver the same trusted drying, warming and comforting performance.
We’ll personally review your measurements, along with a side-on photo of your dog, to confirm whether a Made to Measure is the right option before you order. This ensures your dog gets the best possible fit without unnecessary cost. Find out more on our Made To Measure page.
Which size should I buy for a puppy?
Choosing a size for a puppy can be tricky, as puppies grow quickly. We recommend waiting until your dog is fully grown before buying a Dogrobe to ensure the best fit and long-term use.
For puppies, Gauntlets are often the most suitable option, as they allow you to dry your puppy without needing to size a coat. They also remain a useful part of the dog drying kit as your dog grows.
If you’re buying a gift for a puppy and want to put something towards a Dogrobe for future use, a Dogrobes Gift Voucher is a practical option until the dog’s adult size is known.
How should a Dogrobe fit my dog?
Most dog drying coats stop at the base of the tail, but a Dogrobe is designed to drape over your dog’s hindquarters. Because our dual-loop towelling is so absorbent, it only needs a single lightweight layer, allowing the fabric to fall naturally over the tail to dry the back legs. As dogs vary in shape and proportions, even within the same breed, the exact drape will look slightly different from dog to dog.
For Original and Exclusive Dogrobes, the fabric should meet neatly under the belly. A small overlap is perfectly fine as long as it’s not bulky or uncomfortable. With the Dogrobe MAX, the shaped chest panel provides full underbelly coverage, so overlap is less of a consideration. Learn more from our Fitting & Care Guide.
Are Dogrobes suitable for any other animals?
Dogrobes were designed and sized for dogs, but they are also used successfully by vets for cats and other small animals when warmth and drying are needed.
Customers have also used Dogrobes to dry and warm other animals such as small horses, rabbits, sheep and lambs.
If you’re considering a Dogrobe for an animal other than a dog, the first step is to check whether a standard size is suitable. If not, a Made to Measure Dogrobe can provide a better fit.
Dogrobes Gauntlets are also widely used by customers on horses and ponies for drying wet or muddy legs.
Why don't Dogrobes have legs?
Dogrobes are designed to be easy to put on and take off, even when a dog is wet, tired or wriggly. Adding legs would make fitting more complicated and could restrict movement, particularly for dogs that are sore, stiff or recovering from injury.
Many dogs using Dogrobes attend canine hydrotherapy for conditions such as hip or elbow dysplasia, where manoeuvring limbs into leg holes could be uncomfortable or impractical. The leg-free design allows dogs to move freely while still being dried and kept warm.
For wet or muddy legs, our Dogrobes Gauntlets are specially designed to dry paws and legs quickly and effectively.
Which size of Snood do I need?
The right Snood size depends on how you plan to use it and your dog’s size. Snoods can be worn in two ways - as a close-fitting hood over the head and ears or as a looser neck buff.
For a hood fit, most dogs wear one size down from their Dogrobe size, except dogs in Mini or Toy sizes, which usually stay the same.
For a neck buff fit, choose the same size as your Dogrobe so it sits comfortably around the neck.
If you’re unsure, the Snood Size Guide includes measurements and breed examples to help you choose confidently.
Customising
Which Dogrobes products can be embroidered with my dog's name?
You can have your dog’s name embroidered on all styles of Dogrobe. Original, Exclusive and MAX Dogrobes can all be personalised in every available size. The embroidery is scaled to suit the size of the Dogrobe for a balanced finish.
Adding a name makes the Dogrobe truly unique and adds a special finishing touch. Each name is expertly embroidered using high-quality threads for a neat, durable result that's designed to last.
Products that can be personalised are marked with a personalisation icon on the product image and full details are available on our Personalisation page.
Why does personalising the Dogrobe take longer?
Personalising a Dogrobe takes a little longer because each name is individually embroidered to order with great care.
The loops of the fabric need to be carefully handled during stitching to ensure they don’t show through. We make sure the lettering stays neat and well defined for a professional finish that keeps its shape wash after wash.
This extra attention to detail means personalised Dogrobes take a little longer to dispatch, especially during busy times. For more information on the embroidery process, please see our Personalisation page.
What is a Harness Access Opening and do I need it?
A Harness Access Opening is a small, discreet opening added to a Dogrobe that allows you to reach your dog’s harness without removing the robe. It sits between the collar and mid-back and stays closed until you need to access the harness D ring.
This makes it easy to keep your dog dry and warm while still travelling safely and securely in the car. It’s a useful option if your dog wears a harness and you often travel straight home after wet walks, swims or hydrotherapy.
Harness Access is available as a customisation on Original and Exclusive Dogrobes in all sizes, but is not currently available on the Dogrobe MAX.
Read the full Harness Access Opening page for more information.
Using the Dogrobes kit
When should I use a Dogrobe?
Use a Dogrobe after wet walks, swimming, hydrotherapy, training sessions, wet work, beach trips or bath times - whenever your dog is wet and needs drying.
The unique dual-loop fabric absorbs moisture while trapping body heat to speed up drying and keep your dog warm.
Many owners also find their Dogrobe provides comfort and reassurance during thunderstorms, fireworks and other stressful situations. Find out more on our How Dogrobes Work page.
When should I put the Dogrobe on my dog?
Put the Dogrobe on your dog as soon as they're finished exercising, swimming or bathing - before they head into the house, car, campervan or motorhome.
The sooner it's on, the sooner drying begins, helping to stop wet dogs from shaking water and mud everywhere and reducing the mess they bring indoors.
How long should my dog wear a Dogrobe for?
Most dogs are dry in around 30 minutes, although this will vary depending on their coat type, coat thickness and how wet they are.
Your dog can wear their Dogrobe until they're dry and warm. Many dogs are happy to relax or sleep in their Dogrobe while it does its job. Once your dog is dry, simply remove the Dogrobe and allow it to air dry ready for next time. Read more on our Fitting & Care Guide.
My dog hates coats - will they tolerate a Dogrobe?
Many dogs that dislike traditional coats are happy to wear a Dogrobe. Unlike outdoor coats, Dogrobes are lightweight, soft and highly absorbent, with no noisy fastenings or restrictive leg openings.
Because they're designed for drying rather than insulation, they drape naturally over the body and allow dogs to move freely. Many owners are surprised at how quickly their dogs accept a Dogrobe, especially once they associate it with getting warm, dry and settled after a walk or swim. Read more on the How Dogrobes work page.
When do I use a Snood?
A Snood is ideal whenever your dog's head, neck or ears are wet and need drying. Many owners use a Snood after walks in the rain, swimming, hydrotherapy sessions, muddy adventures or bath times.
As well as helping to dry the head, neck and ears, Snoods can provide comfort and reassurance e.g. during fireworks, thunderstorms, grooming, travel and other situations that may cause anxiety.
Some owners also use them to help keep long ears clean and dry around food and water bowls.
Fit the Dogrobe first then add the Snood over the neck opening of the Dogrobe.
When do I use Gauntlets?
Gauntlets are designed for the parts a Dogrobe doesn't cover - wet, muddy paws and legs. They're ideal after walks, swims, hydrotherapy sessions and bath time, helping you quickly remove moisture and dirt before your dog comes indoors.
Many owners keep a pair by the door, in the car or in their campervan, ready for muddy adventures.
Caring for the Dogrobes kit
Why should I wash my Dogrobe before first use?
We recommend washing your Dogrobe before its first use. This helps remove any loose fibres from the manufacturing process and allows the towelling fabric to perform at its best.
A first wash will also soften the fabric, ensuring your Dogrobe is ready for all your dog's adventures. Find out more on our Fitting & Care Guide.
How often should I wash my Dogrobes kit?
Dogrobes, Snoods and Gauntlets can be used multiple times between washes, depending on how wet or dirty they become.
If the fabric is simply damp, allow it to air dry and reuse it. If it becomes muddy, heavily soiled or starts to develop an odour, it's time for a wash.
Many owners choose to have a spare kit so they always have a clean, dry item ready while the other is being washed or dried. Find out more on our Fitting & Care Guide.
How do I wash and dry Dogrobes kit?
Dogrobes, Snoods and Gauntlets are easy to care for. Machine wash at 30°C, avoid fabric conditioner and wash dark colours separately for the first wash.
Tumble dry on a gentle setting or simply air dry. Thanks to the lightweight, single-layer dual-loop fabric, Dogrobes products dry quickly and are soon ready for the next adventure. Read more on our Fitting & Care Guide.
Can I use fabric conditioner or drying sheets?
No. We recommend avoiding both fabric conditioner and tumble dryer sheets when washing your Dogrobes kit.
These products can leave a coating on the fibres which may reduce the absorbency of the towelling fabric.
For best performance, wash your Dogrobes, Snoods and Gauntlets without fabric conditioner and tumble dry on a gentle setting if required.
How long do Dogrobes usually last?
Dogrobes are designed to provide years of regular use. Many of our customers are still using Dogrobes purchased many years ago. Some have even passed them on to younger dogs.
Durability is built into the design. We deliberately use ties rather than Velcro, as Velcro can clog with hair and lose its grip over time.
With proper care, your Dogrobes kit should provide many years of drying, warming and comforting your dog. Read our Fitting & Care Guide.
My new Dogrobe feels lighter / is longer than my old one - has the fabric changed?
No. Dogrobes are still made using our unique dual-loop towelling fabric.
If your new Dogrobe feels lighter or longer than an older one, it's usually because the older Dogrobe has been washed and used many times over the years. Repeated washing and drying can cause the fibres to contract and tighten, making an older Dogrobe feel slightly denser and appear a little shorter than when it was new.
When compared side by side, a brand-new Dogrobe can therefore feel lighter and look longer, even though the fabric and sizing remain unchanged. Over time, your new Dogrobe will naturally settle in the same way as it is washed and used.
Ordering and delivery
I'm not great with tech. Can I call to place an order?
Absolutely. We're a small, friendly UK business and we're always happy to help. If you'd prefer to place your order by phone, just give us a call and we'll guide you through the options, sizing and any extras such as personalisation.
If we're unable to answer straight away, please leave a message and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
Our number is on our Contact Us page.
Can I cancel my order?
We completely understand - we've all changed our minds about a purchase from time to time! Unfortunately, once an order has been placed, we are unable to alter or cancel it.
If your Dogrobes order isn't quite right when it arrives, you can exchange it for a different size or style, or return it for a full refund in line with our Returns Policy. Remember UK return postage is free.
How long will my order take to arrive?
For non-personalised orders, place your order by 1pm (Monday-Friday) for same-day despatch. All orders are sent fully tracked.
UK orders typically arrive within 1-3 working days, depending on the delivery service selected.
International delivery times vary by destination, but most overseas orders arrive within 2-10 working days.
If you've chosen personalisation, please allow up to 2 extra working days during busy periods while we embroider your Dogrobe.
You'll receive tracking details by email once your order has been despatched. For full delivery information, including international shipping and customs details, please visit our Delivery page.
How do I track my order?
As soon as your order is despatched, we'll send you an email containing your tracking details.
You can follow your parcel's journey using the tracking link provided and, if you have a Dogrobes customer account, you can also log in at any time to view your order history and check the status of your order.
If you can't find your tracking email, please check your junk or spam folder. Still no luck? Get in touch and we'll be happy to help.
My order is late - what do I do?
Most orders arrive within the expected delivery times, but occasional delays can occur, particularly during busy periods, adverse weather or postal disruptions.
First, check the tracking link in your despatch email for the latest update on your parcel's journey. If the tracking hasn't updated for several days, or your order is significantly overdue, please get in touch and we'll be happy to investigate.
Please note that personalised orders may take up to 2 extra working days to despatch during busy periods.
For full delivery information and expected delivery times for your country, please visit our Delivery page.
Do you ship worldwide - which countries?
Yes. We ship Dogrobes products to customers all over the world using fully tracked delivery services.
Our most popular international destinations include the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and many European countries. We currently ship to a wide range of countries including Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Israel, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, South Africa, Namibia, Switzerland and the Republic of Korea.
If your country isn't available at checkout, please get in touch and we'll do our best to help.
For the latest list of countries we ship to, along with delivery costs and customs information, please visit our Delivery page.
Returns, exchanges and refunds
Something isn't right with my order - what do I do?
Please get in touch as soon as possible and let us know what's happened. We'll investigate the issue and do our best to put things right quickly.
You can contact us by phone, email, live chat or via our Contact Us page. When you get in touch, you'll always be dealing with a real person from our small team.
How do I return something for an exchange or a refund?
We've made returns simple and free.
If you have a Dogrobes account, log in, select your order and choose "Return Items". If you don't have an account, just get in touch with your name and order number and we'll set up the return for you.
We'll provide a free returns label and guide you through the process. Once we've received your return, we'll either issue a refund to your original payment method or provide store credit so you can order a different size or style.
For full details, including returns periods, personalised items and exchanges, please visit our Returns & Exchanges page.
Can I return a Dogrobe which has a harness access opening?
Yes. A Harness Access Opening does not make a Dogrobe a personalised item, so it can be returned or exchanged in line with our standard Returns Policy.
As with all returns, the item must be unused, undamaged and returned in its original condition.
For full details, please visit our Returns & Exchanges page.
Can I return a Dogrobe which is embroidered with my dog's name?
Unfortunately not. Dogrobes embroidered with your dog's name are personalised items, made especially for you, so they cannot be returned or exchanged unless they are faulty.
If you're unsure about sizing before ordering, please get in touch. We're always happy to help you choose the right size for your dog.
For full details, please visit our Returns & Exchanges page.
Why do you not offer free postage permanently?
We prefer to be honest about our pricing. Rather than building delivery costs into our product prices, we charge separately for postage so customers only pay for the delivery service they choose.
This approach helps us keep our product prices as fair as possible throughout the year. We do occasionally run free delivery promotions, so it's worth joining our mailing list or following us on social media to hear about them first.
Get in touch
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