Whether you choose to dress your dog for protection from the weather, imminent dangers or as a fashion statement matters not one bit. There is one important factor that you must always keep in mind: besides looking stylish, your dog also needs to be completely comfortable.

Dressing to protect from the weather

Some dog breeds are suited to the warmer weather, yet others are more suited to colder conditions and have a thick natural coat to keep them warm. Yet, when the weather turns cold and rainy your dog deserves to have the same protection from the elements, especially if he’s going to be out and about with you or playing in the garden! Even if your dog loves the rain, some of the longer haired breeds may take a long time to dry after a walk, a raincoat is ideal to keep him dry and protect his hair from getting all knotted. Raincoats and warmer walking clothes are great for all breeds and also for sick or older dogs, but always make sure that they fit comfortably, you don’t want an irritable dog. Older dogs who suffer from arthritis benefit from wearing warm protective jackets in winter and during damp weather.

Dressing to make a fashion statement

There is such a huge variety of fashion accessories and clothes available for dogs to wear through the year. The range includes dresses, t-shirts, hats and scarves. Some of these fashion items can also double up as protection from the sun, especially in summer, when some breeds of dogs are more vulnerable to sun exposure than others. As the loving owner of a dog that needs sun protection, always make sure that the items are made of thin, breathable materials.

Dressing to protect from other hazards

Some dog clothing is meant to offer added protection; but that doesn’t mean that they must just be boring and functional.  These items include panties to protect your female pooch when in heat, reflective vests for walking in extreme conditions and paw protectors for wounded paws. Paw protectors can also be used to guard from cold surfaces, hot sidewalks, road salts, fire ants, pesticides and other chemicals. Weatherproof boots are ideal for dogs that walk on snow and ice and look out for illuminated, all terrain running shoes that ensure that he is seen under all types of conditions.

There are many products available to:

• Protect your dog from catching a cold after his bath with an absorbent bathrobe.
• Also consider that slip and falls can lead to injury. Some dogs, especially older ones, need non-slip socks for around the house.
• Similarly, if you are vacationing near or on water, get him a doggy life jacket or swimming costume and water shoes to help prevent falls.

What should you look for when shopping for an outfit?

Comfort is the first criteria that you should consider, and comfort goes hand in hand with the quality of the materials and how functional the design of the clothing is. Your dog should not feel restricted in his outfit and should have ease of movement. Adjustable fit is essential so that the clothing item can be adjusted to the right sizing and fit comfortably. Fabrics should be soft, stretchy and breathable and easy to put on and take off.  Look for items that are effortless to care for and style definitely does matter if you want your dog to always look chic and polished.

How to measure your dog for sizing clothes properly?

Always measure and weigh your dog before shopping, especially if he is still a puppy and still growing. Clothes should fit snugly so that they don’t slip and slide. that is totally uncomfortable for your dog, yet should not be too tight either. Always use a soft tape-measure so that you can be quick and not risk hurting your dog when measuring for sizing.

The most important dimensions to measure are:

• Measure your dog’s girth: This is the circumference of your dog behind the front legs, at the deepest part. If your dog is at the upper limit for the size, prefer to go up one.
• Measure your dog’s back length: Here you measure from the collar to the base of the tail. Thick coated dogs and overweight dogs usually need to go up one size.
• Measure your dog’s collar: Here you have to measure the circumference of your dog’s neck and then add 2”to that. You should comfortably be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck.

Bear in mind that some clothes are tailor made for particular breeds, because these dogs have different proportions than other breeds.

Clothing items that you and your dog will love

These are the most popular items that people like to choose to enhance the appearance of their dog. They are perfect for whether he is just lazing around the house, going out with you for a daily walk, or accompanying you to an important function.

Knitted sweaters for dogs

Dog sweaters are made from different knitted fabrics and are great for providing warmth on cold, windy days. Some versions have a turtlenecks and the better brands include natural wool for added protection from the cold. Make sure that your dog’s head fits into the head-hole and that the sweater is not too tight around the collar once fitted. That way your pet will have unrestricted movement whether he is accompanying you out for a walk or just enjoying the garden on a cold day.

 Jackets for dogs

These are usually made from several layers, including fleece for warmth and water-resistant fabric, and are perfect for rainy weather, frost, snow and wind. Some do incorporate hoods, but not all dogs like them and tend to be more decorative than practical. Jackets should have practical fastening systems that make it easier to dress your dog.  Look for jackets that have Velcro straps, snap buttons or zippers. Jackets are the perfect clothing item for your dog if he and you love the outdoors and walking.

Hoodies for dogs

If you want your dog to always be fashionable, then a hoodie or sweater, embellished or not, is the perfect doggie clothing item for the in-between weather of spring and autumn. These are slightly shorter than the winter clothing items for dogs and offer comfortable movement.

Formal wear for your dog

Special occasions are a great opportunity to dress your pooch to match your elegance and there is a huge variety of lovely formal outfits to choose from. Just make sure that they are comfortable with enough stretch and no-scratch finishes, especially if they have bows and other accessories attached.

Accessories, Sleepwear, Panties and Footwear for your Dog

There is a wide range of items that your dog can possess to make all his outings with you wow moments! Others are designed to give him comfort around the home. Every season has opportunities to dress him up perfectly and to add the right accessories.  Hats, bow ties and outfits for all the types of special occasions that you may be invited to. You will never be bored when looking for items to add to your dog’s cupboard.  Whether looking for sleepwear for cozy comfort or other accessories, there is no shortage of options.

Enjoy stress-free dressing of your dog

Like his loving human, your dog will hate it if he is tugged and pulled unnecessarily, and anything new will scare him. As you trained him to accept his collar or harness, he will also need to get used to the idea of wearing clothes.

If your intent is to have fun together by dressing up your beautiful canine, begin by getting him used to it when he is still a puppy. Puppies love to play and you can create a game out of dressing him. This will ensure that he doesn’t associate dressing up with stress and discomfort.

Pacing your dog to enjoy the addition of clothing is often key. Older dogs are more likely to get stressed if they have never been dressed before. They need to slowly be introduced to having clothes put on. Be prepared for varied reactions; some dogs try to take the clothes off, while others stand motionless, refusing to take a step forward. Rewards are a great way to start the step-by-step process of getting your older dog used to his new wardrobe.

When all is said & done... It's about safe fashionable fun

Protecting your pup from their environment can be quite a challenge. Like humans, dogs can have allergic reactions to fabrics. Choosing their clothes with care is of great importance. There are a variety of high quality, premium, and luxury items available on the market to meet your pups needs and avoid undesirable effects. It is up to you to keep him safe from harm and always be wary of any finishes that can be bitten off and broken. Always buy clothing items that can easily be cleaned and maintained. You do want your dog to look well cared for and clean.

Dressing up your dog is not just an unnecessary human fad. Most dogs live indoors and are not use to the extremes of the summer or winter weather. Humans must constantly adapt to changing seasons and variations in temperature, and it is important to do the same for your dog. Dressing your dog based on outdoor temperatures and conditions, especially in winter, helps them adjust. Furthermore, clothing can also protect your dog from getting sick.

Have fun all year round with the fantastic choice of doggy clothing items available in stores and online shops. Always keep in mind that you want your dog to not only be stylish and protected from the elements, but to also be comfortable in what he wears so that every moment of his day is filled with pleasure.