Frequently Asked Questions
If your question is not covered here, email us at support@sundialdoggear.com.
Sizing and Fit
How do I measure my dog for the right size?
Chest girth is the primary measurement. Wrap a soft tape around the widest part of your dog's ribcage, just behind the front legs. Snug but not tight - two fingers should slide under the tape.
For back length, measure from the base of the neck where the collar sits to the base of the tail.
What if my dog falls between sizes?
Size up. The system is designed to layer, so a slightly roomier fit does not compromise performance. A too-tight fit restricts gait and creates hotspots on sustained efforts.
Do I need to size up to stack layers?
No. All three layers are patterned to nest in the same size. Order the same size across the Fleece, Puffy, and Shell - LayerTech's toggle-and-loop attachment assumes matched sizing.
What about non-standard builds?
Our articulated cut accommodates a wide range of builds, but some body types need extra attention.
Deep-chested builds (Greyhound, Doberman, Whippet): Size up based on chest girth, even if weight suggests smaller. Chest measurement overrides weight.
Barrel-chested builds (Bulldog, Pug, Frenchie): Size for the chest. Our adjustable closures accommodate shorter backs.
Long, low builds (Dachshund, Corgi): Chest girth remains the priority. Back coverage may be slightly shorter, but thermal protection comes from insulating the core.
Not sure? Email us your dog's measurements and a photo. We will recommend the right size.
Can I exchange for a different size?
Yes. Email support@sundialdoggear.com and we will get the correct size shipped, often before you return the original.
Products & Materials
What is LayerTech?
LayerTech is the attachment system that physically connects the three Traverse layers to each other. The Fleece locks to the Puffy, the Puffy locks to the Shell, and every combination works because every pattern was drafted against every other.
The result is one connected piece of outerwear that behaves like a system, not three jackets stacked against each other. Total weight under 1 lb - less than most single dog jackets.
Do I have to buy all three layers?
No. Each layer works alone. Buy the one your conditions demand most and add the others as your routes get harder. LayerTech's attachment points are designed not to get in the way when you're wearing a single layer.
What makes Sundial gear different?
We build technical outerwear for dogs the same way premium brands build it for humans.
- LayerTech - Three layers in the Traverse series that physically attach to each other via toggle-and-loop. Full system under 1 lb total, less than most single jackets.
- Ultralight materials - Fabrics trusted by thru-hikers and alpinists, not pet-industry supply chains
- Technical construction - DWR finishes, synthetic insulation that performs when wet, articulated patterning
- Published specifications - We list actual weights because grams matter in a pack
- Recycled fabrics - Outer and lining fabrics are recycled across the line. (The puffy's synthetic fill is not recycled - we do not claim what we cannot verify.)
- Designed in Colorado. Sewn in Colorado. - Small-batch production, women-owned.
If you have ever wished your dog's gear matched the quality of your own, we built this for you.
Are the fabrics actually recycled?
The outer and lining fabrics across the Traverse series are recycled. Specifically:
- Traverse Shell: Recycled silicone-coated polyester ripstop
- Traverse Puffy (outer and lining): Recycled polyester ripstop
- Traverse Fleece: Recycled polyester microfleece
The puffy's synthetic fill is not currently recycled. We will switch, but in the meantime, we will not claim recycled status for material we cannot verify.
We chose recycled fabrics because they perform identically to virgin materials. There is no performance trade-off. Depending on color and run availability, some pieces may use virgin fabrics, but recycled is the default.
What is the temperature range of the Traverse Puffy?
As a standalone layer, the Traverse Puffy is effective from roughly 15°F to 45°F depending on your dog's coat density and activity level. Below 15°F or in wet conditions, layer it over the Fleece and under the Shell for maximum thermal protection.
We use synthetic insulation exclusively. It maintains loft when wet, which is critical for dogs that treat every creek crossing as mandatory.
Ordering & Shipping
What is the difference between In Stock and Made to Order?
In Stock ships within 1-2 business days from our inventory.
Made to Order is sewn in our Colorado studio after you order. Allow 1-2 weeks for production plus shipping time.
Both are the same product, same materials, same construction. Made to Order means we are sewing yours fresh.
How long does shipping take?
In Stock: Ships within 1-2 business days. Standard delivery is 3-5 business days after shipment.
Made to Order: 1-2 weeks production, then 3-5 business days for delivery.
Tracking is provided as soon as your order ships.
What does shipping cost?
Standard shipping varies by location, typically under $10 via USPS or UPS (3-5 business days). Orders over $200 ship free.
All orders ship from Louisville, Colorado.
Do you ship outside the US?
Not yet. We currently ship within the United States only. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified when we expand.
Can I change or cancel an order?
If your order has not shipped, email support@sundialdoggear.com and we will do our best to accommodate changes or cancellations. Once shipped, our return policy applies.
About Sundial
Where is Sundial gear produced?
Every piece is designed, sewn, and finished by hand in our studio in Louisville, Colorado. No overseas factories.
Who makes Sundial gear?
Sundial was founded by Andrea, a thru-hiker and ultralight backpacker who could not find technical outerwear for her dog that matched the quality of her own kit. After thousands of trail miles with her dog Kiefer, she started cutting and sewing her own. That is how Sundial started.