Why do dogs need clothes?
First of all, to maintain health. In the modern world, a huge number of decorative exotic breeds have been bred that are simply not fit to live like dogs. For example, hairless Chinese dogs, completely devoid of hair, like humans, need to dress in winter so as not to freeze; and in the summer, so as not to burn in the sun.
And clothing for dogs of small breeds is simply necessary, since their rate of heat exchange is much higher than that of their larger relatives, so such animals freeze and catch a cold at the slightest draft or drop in temperature. Short-haired breeds are completely devoid of undercoat and clothing for them is additional protection from wind and frost.
Many dog breeds are cut in a grooming salon, removing a fairly large amount of insulated fur coat. As a result of the haircut, a sharp disturbance in heat exchange occurs and the dog can easily catch a cold in the first weeks after the haircut. An experienced groomer will definitely recommend putting clothes on your pet during this period.
In older animals, due to age-related changes in the body, natural thermoregulation malfunctions and they, like our grandparents, do not mind dressing a little warmer. In addition, older dogs very often suffer from arthritis and hypothermia can further aggravate this disease. Therefore, older dogs also need clothes.
A mother dog nursing babies can get colds in the mammary glands in winter and needs protection from hypothermia during walks in order to prevent mastitis.
In addition to keeping the dog healthy, clothing serves a protective function. Bolognese thin raincoats make life easier for the owner and significantly save his time during the period when there is slush outside. After all, washing the entire dog after each walk is much more difficult than simply washing the paws and wiping the overalls with a damp cloth. In addition, in winter, city sidewalks and roads are sprinkled with chemicals that negatively affect the skin of pets, often causing allergies. Dog boots also perform the same protective function, protecting paws from the aggressive effects of reagents.
Modern floor coverings such as linoleum, tiles, parquet, and laminate often cause injuries and dislocations in dogs living in apartments. The solution to this problem will be socks with anti-slip soles.
Briefs “for heat” will protect the female dog from unwanted mating, and the apartment and bedding from the discharge characteristic of this period.
Dog clothes are also a source of positive emotions. Many owners of decorative dogs just want to dress their pet glamorously and beautifully. How much joy and admiration it brings to each of us when our pets walking in dresses or in sports overalls and caps evoke in each of us.
Pros and cons of clothing for dogs
We have already briefly mentioned the pros and cons of clothing for dogs. Let's summarize.
Minuses:
- Not all dogs react calmly to interference in their territory. There are whims, and real stress can happen. Therefore, it is necessary to accustom the dog to wearing clothes from an early age, so that as the animal grows there are no problems. You should start at 3-4 months, first putting on a T-shirt and socks. And don't forget to praise your dressed dog. The dog must understand and calmly react to the mandatory procedure of fitting and daily wearing.
- It is not always possible to choose a high-quality, good-quality item. Therefore, many dog breeders prefer to dress their pets in clothes that they sew or knit with their own hands. You can make patterns yourself or find them on the Internet. And you can choose any material - you can use new fabric from the store, or you can alter something from your own clothes. For those who know how to handle a thread and a needle, sewing clothes for a dog is not difficult.
- The most dangerous point is that clothes can cause allergies in the dog, poor-quality seams can injure the skin, and overheating can lead to a number of serious diseases. It’s like with children – you can’t wrap them up too much and vice versa, you can’t undress them in the cold. A loving owner quickly comprehends this science.
- Not all dogs need clothes. Sometimes, as a tribute to fashion, the owner tries to “stuff” the poor animal into an absolutely unnecessary thing. Here it is important to understand which dogs really need this, and therefore we will list the positive factors.
Pros:
- Protection from dirt, cold and reagents (almost all dogs).
- Protection from the sun, dust, ticks and burrs (most long-haired dogs).
- Protection against infection and licking of sore spots (those who have undergone surgery and nursing dogs).
- Protection from dangers in the service (police dogs).
- Functional necessity and subject of helping people (for rescue dogs).
- The need to look good at mandatory events (show dogs).
- Decoration and joy for others.
As you can see, most of the points begin with the word “protection”. This means that still needs clothes
How to choose the right costume for your pet?
The very first rule when buying clothes for a dog is to take your pet with you to the store to try it on. Be prepared right away that the fitting process will take some time, and you will have to try on at least five models to understand which one your “fashionist” or “fashionista” will feel most comfortable in. It is very important that the clothes fit loosely, do not restrict the dog’s movements, do not put pressure on the paws, neck, but at the same time do not “dangle”.
Clothing must match the pet's breed, taking into account its breed characteristics. There are separate sizes for dachshunds, corgis, bulldogs and pugs; you should not try to squeeze them into overalls for other breeds: they will be uncomfortable in the neck for bulldogs, and the length will not suit dachshunds. For hairless breeds, you should choose clothes with neat seams. Rough seams and textured fabric can cause discomfort for naked people.
The overalls should not be too big, otherwise there is a risk that when going for a walk, urine and feces will get inside the clothes.
Clothes for your pet should be easy to put on and take off. Preference should be given to zippers in the fastener, because Velcro fasteners very quickly become clogged with wool and no longer securely fix the suit.
The presence of a reflective strip on the overalls will allow you to control your pet’s movement in the dark and make it more visible to vehicle drivers. Knitted clothes are beautiful, but not so practical to care for and are not suitable for wearing when walking in wet weather.
When buying clothes, it is not enough to just try them on on a standing dog; you need to see how the pet moves in the new clothes - let him walk around the store for a few minutes.
You can ask the dog to sit, lie down, give a paw and, if possible, move up the stairs. While the dog is moving in new clothes, it is advisable to check with your hands whether the clothes are pulling in the armpits. If the dog behaves in clothes the same way as usual, it is comfortable, then the clothes were chosen well. A small exception to this advice would be dogs trying on clothes for the first time: out of habit, their movements will be noticeably constrained, but within 10–15 minutes the dog begins to behave more freely in a new image.
The best mid-season clothing for dogs
Walking in the rain and wind is a dubious pleasure for our little brothers. If, with the first cold weather, your dog categorically refuses to go for a walk, high-quality demi-season clothing will save the situation. A product chosen by size and taking into account the breed and gender characteristics of the animal will prevent it from freezing in the cool season. In addition, wearing clothes in slush will protect the animal's fur from contamination and eliminate the need for subsequent bathing.
White Wolf Brutal Heart Rainsuit for Dogs
5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
The overalls from the White Wolf brand are suitable for active male dogs with a fighting character and unbridled disposition. The raincoat is made of membrane fabric that does not tan at low temperatures.
The hard-wearing model with a black belly and beige back is decorated with reflective elements and a print of the brand logo on the back. The overalls are fastened at the back with a zipper, have a high collar with drawstring, adjustable cuffs on the paws and a drawstring, so they are suitable for dogs of any size.
The product is lined with fleece and is made in sizes from S to L for dogs of medium and large breeds. Thanks to the use of modern materials, the overalls are unpretentious to washing conditions, while retaining their attractiveness and performance properties for several seasons.
Advantages:
- Not easily soiled;
- Made of waterproof, wear-resistant fabric;
- Reflective elements;
- Has a warm lining;
- Fastens with a zipper on the back;
- Made taking into account the gender characteristics of the dog (male cut).
Flaws:
- Available in only one shade.
The overalls from White Wolf are indispensable in the off-season for long active walks of beagles, setters, spaniels, Rottweilers, shepherd dogs and other males of medium and large breeds.
Dilai Mix Autumn overalls for dogs (girl)
5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
97%
buyers recommend this product
The bright Mix overalls from Dilai will become an indispensable attribute in your daily autumn dog walk along with a collar and leash. This demi-season model is made of pink Bolognese fabric with a multi-colored print. The raincoat has a warm fleece lining and a zipper at the withers, making it easy to put on a stubborn dog.
The model is equipped with a drawstring on the belly, so you can purchase it for growing your puppy. A one-piece jumpsuit with a stand-up collar, a closed tummy and elastic fasteners on the sleeves and legs will reliably protect the dog from the chilly wind and rain, making the walk comfortable for the animal and its owner.
The jumpsuit is sold in sizes from S to XXL, so it is suitable for miniature Chihuahua girls and large German shepherds. Caring for the product will also not be difficult. It is enough just to remove dirt from the fabric with a damp sponge and wash the overalls from time to time on a delicate cycle at a temperature of 30 degrees.
Advantages:
- Spectacular design;
- Wide range of sizes;
- Warm;
- The presence of water-repellent impregnation;
- Fastens at the back;
- Easy care;
- Affordable price.
Flaws:
- Stainless shade.
Looking for fashionable and comfortable clothes for your dog? You will definitely love the stylish and thoughtful jumpsuit from Dilai.
Arnydog Dog blanket
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
90%
buyers recommend this product
The Arnydog blanket is a solution for those who cannot find a suitable overall for their dog due to its non-standard physique. The unisex product is represented by a voluminous vest that fastens at the neck and tummy. The model is made of dark blue bolognese fabric, decorated with a dachshund print.
The vest with a stand-up collar can be easily cleaned of dirt with a damp sponge. The size range of blankets is from S to XXL. This allows it to be used for dwarf breeds and large canines such as Alabay, Mastiff, Great Dane and St. Bernard.
Advantages:
- Universal model;
- Non-staining shade with a cute print;
- Waterproof material;
- Very large size range;
- Low cost.
Flaws:
- Does not protect the tummy and paws from dirt and moisture.
The Arnydog blanket is suitable for walking large, long-haired dogs during spring, autumn and early winter.
Selecting the size of clothes for a dog
To choose the right clothing size for your pet, you need to know two main parameters: back length and chest circumference. Neck volume is also equally important, but not all manufacturers indicate this parameter in their size tables. The comfort of the collar can only be understood during the fitting process.
If you have already had experience buying clothes, you don’t need to focus on the size that your pet wears now, you need to know exactly the sizes. The fact is that each manufacturer has its own line of clothing sizes; if a pet wears size S from one company, this does not mean that size S from another will suit him.
Also keep in mind that different models from the same company, of the same size, will fit the dog differently: soft velor and fleece models are always more comfortable and have better stretch, unlike insulated items made from raincoat fabric or fur. Clothing models can also be different - depending on the style, things can be either tight-fitting or quite loose.
When taking your dog’s measurements and choosing clothes based on them, remember that each manufacturer indicates sizes differently: some give volumes taking into account a loose fit, others indicate volumes with a tight fit. This is another argument that you should not buy clothes without trying them on.
How to measure a dog and determine the right size
To determine your clothing size, take the following measurements:
- Back length. Place your dog on a flat surface and make sure he is standing on all 4 paws. Take a tailor's tape and measure the distance as shown in the picture. For convenience, put on the collar and measure the distance between its end and the base of the tail.
Check the data with the indicators in the table, which will be mentioned below. If the table takes into account indicators 30 and 35, and your result is 31, focus on 35. - Bust determine by stretching the tape under the front paws as shown in the figure.
When choosing clothes, you will have to take both indicators into account. But what to do if one of them is suitable, but the second shows a deviation? Focus on the indicator that is larger. If the discrepancies are too great, consult the seller, he will help you choose the appropriate style.
Read on to learn how to determine the right clothing size using the table.
Taking measurements from a dog
Taking measurements to select the size is done with a special soft tailor's measuring tape. What is important is a soft tape, and in no case a tape measure, which can easily injure your pet. A simple ruler will also not be able to accurately take measurements correctly.
The dog should be placed on a flat, hard surface (not on a bed or on a sofa), stand straight, without bending or squeezing. To more accurately determine the length of the back, a collar is put on the dog, and it is from this that the reporting point begins. The second point will be the base of the tail, i.e. the last sacral vertebrae, not the first caudal vertebrae. The resulting value will be the long back.
Now you need to measure your chest circumference. This measurement is taken at the widest point of the ribs: a measuring tape must be passed around the chest just behind the dog's elbows. If the dog is very shaggy, the measuring tape should not fit tightly to the body.
The girth of the neck is equal to the size of the collar the dog wears. The neck circumference is measured at its widest point. The neck should be measured not end to end, but looser. When choosing a clothing model, be sure to look at the neck style, which can be high or loose. In no case should the neck be too tight so as not to squeeze your pet’s neck.
After taking all the measurements, the obtained parameters must be compared with the manufacturer’s size chart and the desired size of clothing for the animal must be selected. For borderline sizes, it is better to start by trying on larger sizes. If the dog is of a dense build and has a voluminous chest, you need to add another size so that the product fits well and the dog is comfortable. If your pet is slim or lean, then a smaller size is needed.
Best Winter Clothes for Dogs
The harsh Russian winter is especially difficult for breeds that do not have a thick and long coat of hair. It is mandatory for winter walks of smooth-haired and hairless breeds to wear warm winter clothing, which will protect the animal from colds, cystitis and other diseases.
Osso Fashion Winter overalls for medium and large breed dogs
5
★★★★★
editorial assessment
97%
buyers recommend this product
In a bright jumpsuit from Osso Fashion, your pet will definitely not remain unnoticed on the street. The one-piece model in acid blue with a multi-colored insert on the hangers is complemented by a zipper on the back, so you can easily put it on even a very large dog.
The Russian-made product is made of windproof and water-repellent fabric with padding polyester insulation. Drawstrings on the chest and stomach allow you to purchase an item for growth.
There are reflective stripes on the sides of the overalls, minimizing the risk of losing the dog during evening walks. Wear-resistant winter clothing is unpretentious to washing conditions. It is available in various sizes with a back length from 40 to 70 cm and a chest circumference from 60 to 100 cm.
Advantages:
- Stylish cut;
- You can buy a puppy to grow up;
- Wide range of sizes;
- Warm;
- The presence of reflective elements;
- Reasonable price.
Flaws:
- Only one color.
The Osso Fashion winter overalls are suitable for female Great Danes, Basenjis, Beagles, Bull Terriers, Dobermans and other large and medium-sized breeds with smooth and hairless coats.
Tuzik Winter overalls with padding polyester + velboa
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
96%
buyers recommend this product
In a powder jumpsuit, your furry guard will look like a real princess. For sewing, raincoat and jacket fabric treated with a water-repellent coating and padding polyester insulation were used.
The light pink model with a pearlescent sheen is equipped with a stand-up collar, elasticated cuffs on the sleeves and a silver zipper on the back. The presence of a peplum at the waist gives the garment a special flair.
The overalls are complemented by a deep slit in the tail area for comfortable toileting outdoors. The product with a back length of 26 cm and a chest volume of 50 cm is intended for walking decorative breeds.
Advantages:
- Spectacular design;
- Comfortable cut;
- Warm;
- Availability of moisture-proof impregnation;
- Relatively low cost.
Flaws:
- Stainless shade.
The overalls are suitable for winter walking of rabbit dachshunds, lap dogs, shih tzus and miniature poodles.
For My Dogs FW700-2019 dog jumpsuit, blue
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
94%
buyers recommend this product
By putting this jumpsuit on your dog, you risk being known as the owner of the most fashionable dog in the area. This eye-catching product is made of denim-colored polyester treated with moisture-proof impregnation. Your pet will feel comfortable in it even in slush and snowfall.
The insulated model, fastened with buttons and a zipper on the tummy, has padding polyester insulation and a plush lining. The product is complemented by a hood and reflective elements.
The highlight of the jumpsuit is given by the brown fur trim on the hood, sleeves and legs, as well as a bright print on the back in the form of the brand’s symbols. Sizes from 10 to 22 are suitable for dogs of decorative and medium breeds.
Advantages:
- Fashionable design;
- Very warm;
- Availability of additional plush lining;
- Large selection of sizes for small and medium breeds;
- Availability of moisture-proof impregnation;
- Adequate cost.
Flaws:
- Inconvenient clasp on the stomach.
Warm overalls from For My Dogs are suitable for male Chihuahuas, toy terriers, Chinese Cresteds and other short-haired and hairless representatives of small and medium-sized breeds that do not tolerate the harsh Russian frosts.
Rukka Airborn Hybrid Winter Jacket for Dogs
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
91%
buyers recommend this product
A winter blanket from the Finnish brand Rukka is suitable for active dogs who do not like to walk in tight overalls. This stylish product with padding polyester insulation is made of polyester treated with a water-repellent coating.
The model with a stand-up collar with an adjustable drawstring is easy to put on even on a very restless animal thanks to the wrap, equipped with a plastic buckle. There are reflective elements on the back that will make your pet visible even in the dark.
The jacket is available in a versatile brown-black and purple-pink color. The size range of the product is from 25 to 65 cm at the withers, so the model is suitable for almost all breeds, with the exception of Great Dane and Leonberger males.
Advantages:
- Stylish design;
- Easy and quick to put on;
- Reliable clasp;
- Two colors to choose from;
- Warm;
- Wide range of sizes.
Flaws:
- Does not protect the belly and paws from slush and snow.
Can't find the right snowsuit for your Dachshund, Corgi, Shar Pei or Basenji? Take a closer look at this versatile, warm jacket from Rukka.
Gamma “Neo” Winter overalls
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
87%
buyers recommend this product
Does your large guard breed pet turn into a capricious child in winter, afraid of the cold? Buy him a stylish and warm jumpsuit from the Gamma brand.
The one-piece model in the form of gray trousers and a multi-colored jacket with a hood is made of waterproof polyester with padding polyester filling. The product with a special cut is intended for walking male dogs.
The overalls are equipped with a gray fur trim on the hood, magnetic buttons and a drawstring in the belly area, as well as cuffs on the sleeves and legs that will prevent dirt and snow from getting on the paws. The size chart of the overalls is from XS to 2XL (suitable for both a miniature Russian Toy and a German Shepherd).
Advantages:
- Large size range;
- Stylish design;
- Tailored taking into account the gender characteristics of males;
- Warm;
- Waterproof;
- Reasonable price.
Flaws:
- Belly clasp;
- No fur inner lining.
Can't find the right snowsuit for your large breed dog? The “Neo” model from Gamma is even made for German Shepherds and Dobermans.
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Choosing shoes
To determine your shoe size, you also need to take measurements. The dog's paw is placed on a white sheet of paper and the distance from the claws to the heel is noted. The resulting marks are measured with a ruler and the size suitable for the dog is checked using the manufacturer’s table.
Even an outfit chosen correctly according to the measurements taken must be tried on. After all, in addition to the main measurements, there is also the volume of the abdomen, and what is suitable for a lean dog will be very tight for a robust one. It is also important to take into account the anatomical features of the structure, for example, in males, pay attention to whether, when walking the dog, urine will not get inside the overalls. The dog's clothing should be comfortable and comfortable. The dog will not say that it is rubbing or uncomfortable. Temperamental “hot” dogs may even tolerate and ignore the pain until an incorrectly chosen suit rubs their skin sore. Therefore, only a loving and attentive owner, together with an experienced seller, will be able to correctly select exactly what will not cause the dog any disturbance.
How to choose clothes for a dog
Selecting clothes for dogs requires certain knowledge. Veterinarians recommend following simple rules when choosing:
- Size . Ask a store consultant to help you purchase the right size for your pet. A jumpsuit that is too tight or small will restrict movement. And overly loose models can move during a walk and also cause inconvenience.
- Fasteners and fastenings should be located in the spine area. This makes dressing easier, and zippers and buttons do not cause discomfort during an active walk.
- Materials . Experts advise giving preference to natural or high-tech fabrics. The use of low quality materials in the manufacture of clothing for dogs leads to the formation of a greenhouse effect, overheating of the pet or hypothermia of the body.
- Decorations . Their number should be minimal. It is important to understand that for long-haired breeds, the presence of rhinestones on the collar will inevitably lead to tangling of hairs.
- Quick drying of the material . Most suits and overalls need to be washed after every trip out. Therefore, clothes should dry within several hours. Sweaters and knitted suits are not suitable for long-haired breeds. The pet's fur gets tangled, and the dog is unlikely to like the appearance of static electricity.
A careful study of the presented models and a scrupulous choice will allow you to purchase the ideal winter clothes for any pet.
How to choose the right one
When choosing new clothes for your pet’s wardrobe, give preference to high-quality materials. Clothes should be practical - easy to put on and not get in the way of the dog. Warm overalls should be soft and elastic, lightweight, so as not to hinder the animal’s movements. The cuffs and neckline are made of soft but dense knitted elastic; they hold clothes in place well, but do not cut into the skin or rub, unlike simple ties.
When choosing clothes for short-haired dogs, as well as for the Chinese Crested or Mexican Hairless breed, pay special attention to the inside - the seams should be hidden or well processed so as not to irritate the skin.
Long-haired dogs are suitable for clothes lined with soft, slippery fabrics: satin, artificial silk. This will make it easier to put on and take off the item and prevent wool from tangling and matting. But the disadvantages of such fabric include the accumulation of static electricity; you may have to use an antistatic agent.
It is very good if there are reflective elements on clothes. In the evening, they allow you to keep your pet in sight and make the dog visible to other people, especially on the road.
What clothes do different breeds need?
Chihuahua clothes for girls and boys
The choice of stylish clothes for a dog is primarily determined by its breed and place of residence. If your pet lives in the southern regions, where the temperature rarely drops below zero Celsius, then you don’t have to think about purchasing warm clothes. When it comes to the north, it is important to evaluate the cold tolerance of a particular breed.
Representatives of breeds with long and warm hair do not need clothing, even if they live outside the home. These include huskies, huskies, St. Bernards and other large dogs. If the dog is healthy, then a long walk will not lead to hypothermia. It is no coincidence that these breeds are good for hunting, rescue operations in the mountains and for sledding.
Dachshund in clothes
Dog trainers and experienced breeders recommend purchasing warm clothing for:
- pets with short legs - dachshunds, Pekingese, corgis. Proximity to the ground of the chest leads to rapid hypothermia;
- hunting breeds - pointers and greyhounds. Because of their thin skin, which is needed for speed and agility, dogs get cold quickly;
- hairless - Chinese Crested. The lack of fur does not allow for long walks in winter;
- decorative - Chihuahua, Yorkshire terrier, Spitz. Artificially bred breeds do not have an undercoat, which speeds up the freezing process;
- nursing and old dogs of all breeds. Their immunity is reduced, their limbs freeze faster due to circulatory problems.
It is worth buying clothes for a puppy and for a sick pet. In diseases, heat exchange is often disrupted, so additional protection will allow the body to recover faster.
Additional Information! High-quality raincoats for dogs will also help protect your pet during the winter. Firstly, they will prevent the wool from getting wet, which will cool the skin. Secondly, they do not allow gusts of wind to pass through. This equipment option is good for large dogs.