There’s no doubt that our canine companions can look very appealing when decked out in the latest pet fashion. Whether it’s a snug sweater or a pair of booties, pet clothing can be serviceable and attractive. That said, there are situations when clothing your pet is a good idea and others when you might want to rethink your motivation.
When dog clothing is appropriate
Does your pet need extra warmth in cooler weather? The needs of individual animals vary, but smaller and older dogs, as well as dogs with fine, short coats, may need some extra warmth when venturing outside on cold, icy days. Short-legged breeds like corgis and dachshunds may also need a sweater or coat when they go outside because their bellies will touch the ice and snow. However, no matter the breed, if your dog is shivering or looks cold, some extra warmth won’t hurt.
On the flipside, perhaps your canine loves to be outside on hot, sunny days. Remember that pavement, sidewalks, asphalt, and blacktop all absorb the sun’s heat. On very hot days, when the thermometer tops 90 degrees, asphalt can reach temperatures near 140 degrees. Even on a relatively mild day with temperatures in the upper 70s, asphalt can top 120 degrees. This heat is too much for your dog’s paws, so footwear to protect their paws when walking outside is a good move. Remember: if you put your hand on the pavement and it’s too hot for your skin, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
Assessing your dog’s reaction
Aside from keeping your pet comfy during temperature extremes, clothing can be a fine choice at other times. For instance, you may have a dog doesn’t seem to mind donning a sweater.
The key is to track your pet’s reaction when you pull out that sweater. Does Fido wag his tail in anticipation of the admiring comments he’ll receive in his new coat, or does he keep his distance and look unhappy at the prospect? Is it a struggle to get the sweater on him? As a caring pet parent, you don’t want to put your dog through something that will cause unnecessary stress.
If you have a reluctant pet but still want to dress them up, try a fancy new collar, a jaunty bandana, or a leash with a bit of bling. These items are usually less intrusive and uncomfortable. You can also focus on other pet accessories—get your dog a stylish new bed or some attractive food and water bowls, for example.
Types of clothing for dogs
The range of garments you can purchase for your dog is, frankly, astounding. The canine clothing industry has become a profitable one. Here, we’ll break it down into the typical categories.
Booties ─ Footwear made for dogs is designed to protect their sensitive paws from all manner of troublesome conditions outside. A dog’s pads can be easily burned by a hot pavement, as mentioned above, or by de-icing salt. Furthermore, they may get frostbite, suffer from cracked pads, or be injured by sharp rocks. Most booties come with grips on the bottom to prevent slips and Velcro straps to fit snuggly.
Coats and sweaters ─ Basically, sweatshirts, sweaters, and coats are designed to help a dog retain their body heat in chilly temperatures. They’re useful for canines that have trouble staying warm due to their type of coat, age, small size, or illness. These items come in many different sizes, so finding the right fit for your dog shouldn’t be too hard. You can select one with an insulated lining for added warmth.
Life jackets ─ Canines who love to spend time boating with their human family deserve the protection of a life jacket. Some dogs are natural-born swimmers, but many others are not. For example, the short, stocky build of a bulldog makes it difficult for this breed to stay afloat. Pugs and basset hounds aren’t built for the water, either. Even if your dog’s breed is known for swimming, don’t automatically assume that your dog will enjoy the water, especially if they have no experience around it and were to fall in unexpectedly. A life jacket is a good idea for any dog.
Pajamas ─ Few dogs need pajamas. However, if your dog is old, sick, hairless, or otherwise prone to chills, and you like to keep your house cool at night, this type of clothing can be useful. Expect to find an array of canine-flattering PJs at your local pet shop.
Rainwear ─ Taking your dog for a walk on a rainy day or when the snow is falling thick and wet may necessitate a raincoat. Consider a design with a lining of fleece for added comfort. Your pet will be much happier arriving home dry and warm.
Sun shirts ─ Dogs can get sunburns and skin cancer just like humans, so if your pooch is going to be outside in the sun for a long time, you might consider dressing them in a sun shirt. These garments protect from harmful UV rays. Those rated with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 50 are the best buy.
Vests ─ Vests for pets serve distinct purposes. Some are reflective and make your dog more visible to motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians on evening and nighttime walks. Other vests have cooling qualities for hot weather, while still others fit snuggly and apply pressure to calm anxious pooches. Anti-coyote vests are also available; typically made for smaller, more vulnerable dogs, these vests feature spikes and may be made of anti-puncture material to guard against surprise coyote attacks.