Short-coated dogs lose heat quickly when they are standing still, and a cape is the fastest layer to get on and off for the round-the-block sort of outing. Tartan outer, fleece lining, a hood and a pair of pompoms: it makes no pretence at being technical mountain kit, and there is a place for a warm layer that is simply cheerful on a frosty morning in the park.

Fleece is the reason it works, rather than the tartan. A napped fleece lining traps a layer of still air against the coat, and still air is what actually keeps a dog warm. The cape shape leaves the legs and shoulders completely free so nothing binds when the dog trots off, and it goes on over the head instead of needing legs threaded through, which matters enormously with a dog who objects to being dressed at all.

• Tartan outer with a soft fleece lining
• Hooded cape shape with pompom detailing
• Goes on over the head, legs left free
• Four sizes: XL, 2XL, 3XL and 4XL
• Listed in red tartan only
• A warm layer for cold, dry walks

Two honest points. This range starts at XL and climbs, so there is nothing here for a small dog, and no back lengths are published, so measure from collar to base of tail and check it with us first. It is fleece and cotton rather than a waterproof, so it soaks up rain and holds it. Most dogs also dislike the hood up, so treat that as decoration and let them shake it off.

Who it's for: Larger short-coated dogs on cold, dry walks, and owners who want something with a bit of seasonal character rather than another black quilted coat.