The cold has arrived. Mornings are crisp, evenings are bitter, and footy training has taken on that familiar wintry bite. If you’re rugging up in your Falcons gear to head out the gate, spare a thought for your four-legged training partner waiting at home.
Melbourne winters are genuinely cold. Adelaide-based vet Andrew Gardiner advises a coat for cold-sensitive breeds whenever the temperature drops below 14 degrees Celsius – and in southern Australia, that’s most winter nights. Your dog might not complain, but that doesn’t mean they’re comfortable.
The good news? You can keep your pup warm and show off your club colours at the same time. The Falcons Dog Jacket is back, and now that the cold has properly hit, it’s time to get your order in.
Does your dog actually need a jacket this winter?
Short-haired, thin-coated, small, senior, and unwell dogs all benefit from a waterproof jacket when the temperature drops or the wind picks up. If your dog shivers on morning walks, curls up tight outside, or lifts their paws off cold ground, a jacket is a practical choice, not just a fashion statement.
Breeds that tend to feel the cold most
Some dogs are built for cold weather. Huskies, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Malamutes have thick double coats and barely notice a Melbourne winter. But plenty of popular family breeds need a hand. Small breeds lose body heat faster because of their higher surface-area-to-body ratio, so they benefit from a jacket at higher temperatures than bigger dogs.
Breeds that tend to need winter jackets in Melbourne include:
- Greyhounds and Whippets (minimal body fat, very short coat)
- Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, and other small breeds
- French Bulldogs and other short-nosed breeds
- Puppies and senior dogs of most breeds
- Any dog recovering from illness or injury
The simple rule of thumb
The ASPCA puts it simply: if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your dog. If you’re grabbing a jacket before the morning walk, your dog likely needs one too.
What makes the Falcons Dog Jacket worth having?
The Falcons Dog Jacket isn’t just a fun novelty. It’s a genuinely practical bit of kit built for Melbourne conditions. Here’s what you get:
- Waterproof outer shell – keeps rain and wind out on those cold, wet training mornings
- Fleece lining – soft, warm, and comfortable for all-day wear
- Ultra-lightweight design – your dog won’t even notice they’re wearing it
- Reflective strips – keeps your pup visible on early morning or evening walks
- Embroidered Falcons logo – navy, clean, and club-proud
- Optional playing number – add your dog’s favourite player’s number for just $10
Available in red or blue, with logo placement on the side or lower back. Seven sizes from 2XS (24cm, perfect for tiny breeds) through to XL (60cm, for the bigger dogs in the family). Prices start at $40.
Order your Falcons Dog Jacket here
$10 flat delivery or free pick-up from the club. See Nippy for samples.
How to measure your dog for the right fit
Measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. Then match your measurement to the size guide below.
| Size | Neck to tail | Typical breeds |
|---|---|---|
| 2XS | 24cm | Chihuahua, tiny toy breeds |
| XS | 34cm | Small terriers, Dachshund |
| S | 39cm | Cavoodle, Shih Tzu, Pug |
| S+ | 40cm | Slightly longer small breeds |
| M | 44cm | French Bulldog, Cocker Spaniel, Whippet |
| L | 52cm | Border Collie, Staffy, Boxer |
| XL | 60cm | Labrador, Greyhound, larger breeds |
Not sure between sizes? Go up. A slightly longer jacket is better than one that pulls across the back. If you’re heading to the club, ask to see Nippy – sample jackets are available to check the fit before you order.
The optional personal touch: add a playing number
Want your dog to really commit to the cause? Add a playing number for $10. Pick your favourite player’s number, a household number that means something to your family, or just the number that feels right. Check out the 2026 VFLW squad for inspiration and pick your favourite Falcon.
Why buy from the Falcons shop?
Every purchase through the Falcons shop directly supports the club. The Darebin Women’s Sports Club is a volunteer-driven organisation providing affordable, inclusive sport for women, girls, and gender-diverse people. The club was recently recognised as Darebin City Council’s 2025 Community Group of the Year. Buying merch is one of the simplest ways to back everything the club stands for.
Delivery is $10 flat, or pick up from the club once orders are delivered. Pick-up details are confirmed when your order is ready.
Order now while stock lasts
These jackets are pre-order items, which means stock is not unlimited. With the cold weather here and winter well underway, now is the time to get your order in. Don’t wait until July and miss out.
Order your Falcons Dog Jacket now
Sizes 2XS to XL – Red or Blue – From $40 – $10 flat delivery
Frequently asked questions
Does my Melbourne dog really need a jacket in winter?
Many dogs do, yes. An Australian vet has noted that cold-sensitive breeds benefit from a jacket when the temperature drops below 14 degrees Celsius, which covers most Melbourne winter nights. Short-haired breeds, puppies, senior dogs, and small breeds all tend to feel the cold more than thick-coated dogs. If your dog shivers outside or seeks warmth indoors, a jacket is worth having.
How do I measure my dog for the right jacket size?
Measure from the base of your dog’s neck to the base of their tail. The Falcons jacket comes in seven sizes from 24cm (2XS) to 60cm (XL). If you’re between sizes, go up. You can also see sample jackets in person by asking for Nippy at the club.
Can I add my dog’s playing number to the jacket?
Yes. You can add a playing number for an extra $10 at checkout. It’s a great way to show support for a specific player or just make the jacket uniquely yours.
How is the jacket delivered and how long does it take?
Delivery is a flat $10 fee, or you can choose to pick up from the club once the order has been delivered. Pick-up details are sent to you once your order is ready. As this is a pre-order item, allow time for production before your pick-up window opens.
Does the reflective strip really matter for Melbourne dog walks?
Yes, especially in winter. Melbourne’s shortest days mean many dog walks happen in low-light conditions. Reflective strips help drivers, cyclists, and other pedestrians spot your dog from further away, adding a meaningful layer of safety on darker walks.