ᐉ Clothing for dogs: why you need it and how to choose the right one

Why dress dogs

So, let's look at the purpose of dog clothing. There are several main reasons to visit a specialized boutique:

Beauty and style. This goal is quite justified for decorative breeds that accompany their owners to social events or holidays. On the shelves of stores and boutiques there is a huge assortment of stylish and colorful wardrobe items for dogs. You can purchase funny overalls or jackets, as well as ball gowns, shirts or carnival costumes. It all depends on the imagination and preferences of the owner.
For additional protection of your pet from the adverse effects of low temperatures. Not all dogs tolerate being outside well during walks. An increasing number of pets are moving to permanent housing in an apartment, so they need protection and heating when walking.
Protection from dirt and moisture. Overalls and jackets with pants are indispensable for walking after the rain.

This is important: you should clearly understand that stylish clothes for a short-term going out and walking models for active recreation will be fundamentally different not only in cut, but also in the materials used.

Should you dress your dog in winter?

To answer this question, you need to understand which dogs need additional clothing and which do not.

For example, for representatives of northern breeds (huskies, huskies, St. Bernards, Moscow watchdogs, as well as Newfoundlands, chow chows and many others), the purchase of walking overalls and insulated wardrobe items is completely unnecessary.

What dogs need clothes in winter

Not every pet needs protective or warm clothing. If a dog constantly lives in an enclosure or on the street, then his body gradually adapts to changing weather conditions. The animal grows a thick undercoat, adaptation processes are launched and metabolism is activated. Thanks to this, the dog can easily endure the cold months.

But why do experts and experienced dog handlers recommend that some dogs be dressed in winter? The category of four-legged pets that require additional protection includes:

Representatives of breeds with short legs . These are Pekingese, Japanese Chins, Dachshunds, etc. During a long walk, the pet's stomach and chest are in close proximity to wet or frozen ground. The result is hypothermia.
Hunting dogs . In particular, pointers and greyhounds. These animals are distinguished by thin skin, thanks to which the body provides optimal heat transfer during fast and long running. But this same mechanism does not serve the pet well in the winter when walking on a leash. High heat transfer rates lead to rapid hypothermia.
Representatives of hairless breeds , in particular the Chinese Crested Dog and the Xoloitzicuintli. Their homeland was warm countries, so the lack of fur did not cause negative consequences. In our harsh climate, such pets simply will not be able to fully enjoy a walk in snowy or windy weather at low temperatures. But this is exactly what winter is like in the vastness of Russia.
Decorative breeds of dogs . They were artificially bred and are distinguished by the absence of a thick undercoat, which reliably protects them from wind and cold. Therefore, in this case, the use of warm overalls and other wardrobe items is mandatory.
Aging pets or lactating bitches . Both have a reduced level of immunity and need additional protection from frost. Elderly individuals experience poor circulation, which leads to a rapid decrease in body temperature in the limbs, ears, and tail. The result is increased sensitivity to cold or frostbite.

You will find our article useful: Frostbite in dogs. Signs, first aid, treatment
This is important: we should not forget that weakened or sick pets need additional protection. They experience a decrease in the functioning of the immune system and weakness. This leads to rapid hypothermia and the development of various complications.

SobakinoAbout dogs for people

Today you can increasingly see dogs dressed in bright costumes. In the modern world, this has become a fashion trend, an indicator of the owner’s taste. In addition, behind the attractive appearance lies another very important function - protecting the animal from cold, water and dirt.

It happens that while walking along the streets, we can see a rather strange thing. These are small dogs dressed in the latest fashion. They wear jackets, fashionable overalls, and even protective raincoats. These little creatures are always dressed for the weather. In recent years, it is small dogs of breeds such as Chihuahua or Yorkshire Terrier that have become the most fashionable. For this reason, it has also become a trend to dress these babes in different outfits. But why is this necessary? Fashion or method of protection? Why only small ones? Why can't big dogs be dressed up in different outfits?

Recently, creating fashionable clothes for tiny dogs has become an art. But for some reason, dog outfits are only available for small breeds. What about large pets?

Firstly, this is because a tiny dog’s body cannot tolerate cold, so a warm outfit saves babies in the winter season. Secondly, various stars first started getting elite little puppies. This is probably all because of the price, because before these cuties were quite expensive. Now that they have become fashionable, their prices have dropped. Now virtually every resident can afford such a dog. For this reason, fashion designers began to create collections not just for people, but even for small dogs. This has become a new fashion hit, because it’s nice not only to dress stylishly yourself, but also to dress your pet beautifully. A branded outfit is not only a stylish thing, but also reliable protection from the cold.

But what about big dogs? Various fashion collections have now also begun to be created for such pets. You can buy overalls or a warm jacket for your large pet. For large dog breeds, the main feature of clothing becomes practicality rather than fashion. Basically, protective raincoats or insulated overalls are made for them. This invention is very convenient: it will warm your pet and protect it from rain, slush or snow. If you love your little friend very much and care about his health, then you can also buy comfortable shoes for him. This is reliable protection for dogs from cold and dirt. Your dog's paws remain clean and will always be warm.

Most likely, you haven’t thought about buying clothes for your pet before, but this is a really necessary thing for a dog sometimes. For example, if you live in a city located in the northern region, then this is even an irreplaceable thing. This area is characterized by very cold winters, so you need to carefully protect your pets. Even if you have a very shaggy dog or it belongs to a special northern breed, this is not a guarantee of protecting it from the cold. Your beloved pet can easily suffer from frost if its paws are not protected. This can lead to frostbite on the paws or damage to the pads. To protect your dog from such negative consequences, it is advisable to buy warm shoes for your pets.

Pet clothing is an invention with its own history. It was invented a long time ago and much earlier than various fashionistas - stars - began to get involved in this art. Basically, clothes were first intended for small decorative breeds. Large dogs at that time did not need clothing. Such breeds were used either to rescue people in the mountains or for hunting. And at the same time, they began to come up with various capes and bags specifically for dogs. This was the beginning of the fashion for clothing for animals.

Nowadays, it is very easy to buy clothes for your beloved pet. You can easily find it on the Internet or in a pet store. Today you can buy anything - from a small glamorous dress to a large vest, from a cute scarf to a jacket or warm coat, from a funny and bright suit to various fashionable pairs of shoes. This is all produced in various sizes and colors. However, all these clothes are not only a fashion accessory, but also a very practical invention. Many clothes are created with special reflectors. This is a necessary remedy especially if your pet is dark in color. It helps you not to lose your pet at night, and during the day the clothes look very interesting. Basically, they began to use this product in the basis of scarves, which can be found in the store.

Various costumes for the holidays have also become fashionable. The most common holiday and parade of “costumes” is Halloween. You can find various and interesting outfits on sale. Costumes for pets are no different from special costumes for people for this holiday. But so far, such outfits have become widespread only in America.

Dressing your pets has now become a very fashionable pastime. This is no longer so necessary, but rather fashionable. Now there are no problems with this anymore. Many different stores will offer you different outfits for your pet. Many companies will even offer to sew a special outfit especially for your dog. The choice is yours. It all depends entirely on your taste and the size of your pet.

What clothes does a dog need?

On the shelves of veterinary pharmacies, specialized boutiques or small pet supply stores there is a wide range of warm and practical winter wardrobe items for your four-legged pet.

Experienced dog handlers say that the minimum wardrobe for walks in the cold season includes:

Insulated overalls. An alternative could be a warm coat or fur coat. But the latter options are well suited for small dogs.
Windbreaker, made on the basis of a soft lining. It will reliably protect against gusts of wind, and the soft lining prevents your pet's long fur from tangling. High-quality products do not cause the development of a pair effect and the pet feels very comfortable.
Raincoat. Ideal solution for wet weather. Especially if the owner does not deny his pet an active lifestyle even in pouring rain.
Sweater from natural yarn. You should not give preference to cheaper models made from synthetic materials.
Lightweight T-shirts . They will be the first layer of clothing for hairless breed dogs. The fabric allows air to pass through well and absorbs sweat.
Shoes for pets . Another very relevant wardrobe item for city pets.

This is important : clothes made from high-quality materials and correctly selected in accordance with weather conditions will make the walking process not only fun, but also safe for the health of the animal.

Selecting a pattern and selecting material for a seasonal model

The standard pattern of the jumpsuit must be adjusted to the dog’s parameters; the model of the clothes sewn depends on its choice, and how comfortable it is for the animal to move in it, the jumpsuit is the best option for replenishing the wardrobe.

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.

What should the clothes be like?

Of course, many owners want to choose a beautiful and cheerful outfit for their beloved pet. Some people like to dress up their dogs in superhero or princess costumes, dresses and suits. However, the animal itself does not always like such clothes. In addition to the decorative function of decoration, it should also be comfortable. The dog should be comfortable and calm when dressed. Nothing should stop her from performing her usual actions. It is very important to follow this rule when choosing clothes.

In order not to cause allergies or other unpleasant reactions in your dog, you should choose clothes made from natural and environmentally friendly materials.

Does your dog wear clothes?

Does a dog need shoes?

Most veterinarians and experienced dog handlers answer this question in the affirmative. Boots, sneakers or other footwear options are indispensable for residents of large cities. In cities, utility services are increasingly sprinkling streets with various chemicals to prevent the formation of ice on sidewalks. But these compounds have a negative effect on the paw pads of animals, as well as on the condition of the coat and skin.

The ideal solution to protect the paws of your four-legged pet is to use high-quality and comfortable shoes. It will reliably protect paw pads from exposure to reagents and prevent chemical burns.

Prevention of cuts to paw pads will also be an important factor. Not all city residents strive to maintain cleanliness and throw away glassware in a designated place. Broken bottles pose a serious danger to walking dogs. And boots or sneakers will provide the necessary level of protection.

Whether to purchase high-quality winter shoes and clothes for your four-legged pet is up to the owner to decide. But it is still worth carefully studying this issue. Assess the climatic conditions of your region, and also study the recommendations of veterinarians on keeping a certain breed of dog. This will allow you to make a balanced and thoughtful decision.