Is there anything more adorable than a pooch that’s dressed up in clothes? From bow ties to raincoats, there’s a seemingly endless array of dog clothing options to choose from. And while some people might think that dressing up your dog is a bit unnecessary, there’s no denying that it can be a whole lot of fun.
If you’re thinking about outfitting your pet in some comfy and stylish threads, you have to be careful about which type of clothing you choose. Not all items offer the same features, and some items may be more suitable for your pup than others.
Why You Should Dress Up Your Dog?
Beyond the gorgeous outfits, crazy costumes, or bulky winter jackets, there are some good reasons why you should expand your dog’s tiny wardrobe or start building one if you haven’t already done it!
Body Temperature Regulation
Putting your pooch in cute clothes for dogs will keep him comfy and stylish no matter the weather. This is a no-brainer for breeds that aren’t adapted to cold weather and are very uncomfortable in winter.
Your dog will enjoy going outside for a stroll or even staying warm indoors more if you dress them in a nice sweater, socks, or booties. However, the severe heat or humidity of the summer can be just as harmful to your dog. For dogs who are elderly or have health issues, a cooling vest can prevent overheating.
Fur and Skin Protection
When it comes to their fur and skin protection, clothing is one of the top essential supplies for dogs as there are many potential irritants in the vast outdoors. For instance, whether you go hiking, camping, or hunting in woodland locations, bugs are at the top of the list. Put an insect-repellent shirt on your dog instead of or in addition to bug spray for the optimum level of protection.
Additionally, dog clothing keeps burrs, dirt, allergies, and other organic waste out of your dog’s fur. This will definitely simplify bathing and grooming while also keeping your home clean. And, if your four-legged family member bites and chew their skin, wearing dog clothes can stop him from engaging in this behaviour and promote healthy wound healing.
Important Factors to Consider
Sure, you want your pup to look great in his new duds, but you shouldn’t base your decision on aesthetics only. More often than not, pet owners make the mistake of selecting clothes that aren’t exactly right for their furry companions. If you’re looking to shop for cute clothes for dogs, consider the following factors:
Size
Good pieces of clothing shouldn’t restrict your dog’s physical movements. Therefore, correct fitting is crucial. Sizes and weights vary greatly among different breeds. Additionally, their measurements are different. There is a lot of difference even among breeds, so you can’t always rely on a label that says, “Perfect for Chihuahuas and other little dogs.”
Small neck and back sizes, for example, are common in small breeds’ clothes like Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers, who may only weigh a few pounds. But, a standard toy poodle may have a neck of 5.5″, back of 7″, and chest of 12″. So, it’s always best to measure your dog before you start looking for the ideal attire.
Urination-Friendly
Who would want clothing that is designed so that the dog will either urinate or defecate on it? The cost of your laundry will go up in addition to the fact that it is unpleasant for the dog and smelly.
Search for clothing with a higher cut-out around the belly and groin region if it applies to male dogs. These types of clothes will prevent the dog from peeing on them and damaging the fabrics.
Weather- Proof
Clothes for dogs should be climate and surroundings appropriate. Your canine friend can overheat in hot weather because they only have sweat glands on the bottom of their pads. Don’t put on any warm clothing in hot weather even if it looks cute, as this will further disrupt your pet’s body temperature.
There is confusion, over whether dogs need a coat, sweater, or neither during the harsher winter months. Let your dog’s coat determine whether or not he needs additional winter protection. If the dog has a thin coat of hair, you should provide thicker clothes when going outside for that extra layer of warmth.
Sick dogs, puppies and older dogs will require some extra layers when the temperature drops outside. Besides a jacket, hoodies, coats, or sweaters can also be a valuable option. However, if the weather gets too cold, you should keep your dog inside as they just like humans are very susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite.
Fabrics
Any piece of clothing should allow your pooch to move, run, walk or play freely. So, if the material becomes a hindrance to the mobility of your dog, the clothing won’t serve its primary purpose. To prevent such situations, opt for pieces of clothing made of stretchy materials that make movement easier. Spandex and cotton are the two best options.
Another equally good fabric for dog clothing to consider is wool. When opting for ones made of wool keep in mind that real wool can sometimes feel itchy and isn’t machine washable. Therefore, go for dog clothes made of synthetic fabric or a mixture of cotton and washable wool.
Strips and Zippers
Everything that eases the process of putting on and taking off your dog’s clothes for him and the owner is worth considering. Sometimes it can be impossible to put on that cute outfit on your pooch simply because he isn’t willing to cooperate or is sick. On such occasions, adjustable dog clothing will seal the deal. Wide Velcro strips and sturdy zippers are both worth considering.
However, make sure there is nothing chewable or swallowable attached to the clothing. Loose buttons, snaps, or bows may look cute, but they can easily be removed, and you certainly don’t want your dog to eat something that could pose a choking risk or become lodged somewhere in his digestive tract.