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Originally Posted On: https://www.fanzypetz.com/blogs/news/how-to-dress-your-dog

 

DOG CLOTHING: HOW TO DRESS YOUR DOG

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN INVESTING IN DOG CLOTHING BUT AREN’T SURE WHERE TO START? HERE’S A COMPLETE GUIDE ON HOW TO DRESS UP YOUR DOG FOR ANY OCCASION.

They say that dog is man (and woman)’s best friend and there is certainly a lot of evidence to back this up! In fact, more than 69 million households in America have at least one pet dog.

Your dog offers companionship, protection, and emotional support. However, this caring relationship works in both directions. As an owner, you also have a responsibility to care for your pet and this doesn’t just mean keeping it clean and fed.

Happy dogs are very easy to spot — these dogs receive plenty of attention, affection, and exercise. If you’re looking to treat your pet, it’s time to check out gorgeous dog clothing! In fact, dog owners in America currently spend more than $9.7 million on this every year.

Not sure where to start when it comes to dressing your dog? Then you’re in the right place. Read on to find out our top tips for dressing your dog in the best dog clothing around!

Benefits of Buying the Best Dog Clothing

Amazing dog clothing showcases your pet’s personality and makes them look fabulous. Dressing them can also be a great bonding experience for you. This gives you focused one-on-one time with your dog.

However, clothes for dogs also have some amazing practical benefits as well!

CLOTHING PROTECTS YOUR DOG FROM THE WEATHER

During America’s winter months, temperatures average around 33.2°F. A great winter coat for your dog will keep them warm while they are out.

During the summer months, a fun bandana can help to keep them cool. It will also protect them from the sun’s UV rays.

DOG CLOTHING PREVENTS INSECT BITES

Clothing also makes them less susceptible to annoying insects, such as ticks, fleas, and bees. This reduces their chances of getting an infection from a bite or sting.

So your dog will stay healthy and happy all summer long. And you can avoid a hefty vet’s bill!

BRIGHT CLOTHING MAKES IT EASY TO SPOT YOUR DOG

An eye-catching bandana can make it easy to spot your dog at a distance. This can be handy if a dog-walker or loved one takes your dog out for exercise.

So, if you want to buy dog clothing, where do you start? Let’s take a closer look at our top tips for kitting your dog’s wardrobe out.

Find Items For Your Doggy Wardrobe

First things first, you need to familiarize yourself with the range of doggy clothing on offer. This can help you find items that suit your dog’s personal style and work practically.

Some of the most popular clothes for dogs include:

• Doggy raincoats and winter coats
• Cooling vests
• Dog hoodies and sweaters
• Reflective vests
• Canine life jackets
• Dog booties
• Neck scarves and bandanas for dogs

So whatever your dog’s personal style you will be able to find something to suit them. You can even explore different options to find a look that your dog is comfortable with.

Introduce Clothes For Puppies As Soon As Possible

If you going to dress your dog you should introduce them to clothing as soon as possible. After all, dressing your dog requires some training. This is easier to do with dogs who are still learning.

You can introduce them to dog clothing once they are seven or eight weeks old.

Of course, your puppy will grow a lot in a short space of time. So finding clothes for puppies can be difficult.

You need to find clothing that will adapt as your dog grows. Adjustable items, such as neck scarves and bandanas, can be great for this period of their lives.

You can also buy your puppy a cute coat. Just be prepared for them to outgrow it very quickly indeed!

Start With Dog Accessories and Work Up

If your dog has never worn clothing before you’ll need to ease them into this. Starting them off with a simple accessory, such as a bandana, is a good idea.

These are quick and easy to put on. They also don’t restrict your dog’s movement. So they won’t bother them or make them feel claustrophobic.

You can introduce your dog to their bandana by putting it in their bed. That way the bandana will smell familiar when you put it on your pet.

Ease Your Dog Into Their New Outfits

Your dog needs time to get used to its new clothing. Because of this, you shouldn’t try to dress them in a full outfit right away. There are several great ways to get your dog used to clothing before they wear it.

USE A ROUTINE

The first time your dog tries on their bandana, you should:

• Drape it on their back for a few seconds
• Reward them with a treat if they leave the bandana in place
• Try fastening the straps once your dog is comfortable with having the bandana on their back
• Reward them if they do not try to remove the bandana

This can take a little practice, so be patient and go at your dog’s speed. Forcing them into clothing will only make them like it less.

USE POSITIVE REINFORCEMENT

Get your dog to wear their new accessory during activities that they enjoy. For example, they could wear it out on walks or when playing with a ball in the garden.

Giving your dogs treats while they are wearing their bandana will also help. They will associate their clothing with positive experiences and be happy to wear it.

Measure Your Dog Carefully

Dog clothing that is too big or tight will be difficult to move in and this can irritate your dog. So it is important to measure your pet carefully before you buy clothes for dogs.

Sizing charts and customer reviews can help with this. Buying adjustable clothing will also make it easier for you to find the perfect fit!

Choose Fabrics That Are Comfortable

Dogs want to feel comfortable in their clothing just like humans do. Because of this, when you buy dog clothing, you should choose quality fabrics.

You want fabrics that are breathable and easy to move in. Natural fibers are also less likely to irritate your dog’s skin.

Some fabrics are easier to clean than others, so keep this in mind when choosing your dog’s clothes. Ideally, you want to buy dog clothing that is machine washable. Hair repellant fabrics can also be great for dog clothing.

Choosing high-quality fabrics will ensure that the amazing designs on your dog clothing last. So it is worth investing in these when you buy dog clothing!

Keep an Eye Out For Hazards

Dressing up your dog can be a lot of fun but choosing the wrong clothing design could be dangerous. If your dog tries to chew its clothing small items will quickly become choking hazards.

Because of this, it is a good idea to avoid clothing that features buttons, zips, and beading. Tie fastenings and velcro are much safer for your dog.

Get Creative With the Clothes That You Try

It is a good idea to introduce your dog to accessories first. That said, if they don’t like these you do not just have to give up.

Trying out different clothing styles will help you find one that your dog is comfortable in. And there are plenty to choose from!

LET YOUR DOG LEAD YOU

Once you’ve tried one style of clothing you will have an idea of what your dog likes or doesn’t like. You can use this to find other styles that they might be comfortable in.

For example, if your dog does not enjoy wearing booties then it is a good idea to avoid clothing that covers their feet or lower legs. In that case, sweaters, coats, and scarves will be more up their street!

BRANCH OUT ONCE YOUR DOG IS COMFORTABLE

Once your dog is used to wearing clothes then the world really is your oyster! You can try out a range of different outfits to find one for every occasion.

Think About Your Style

Of course, clothing for dogs is all about style and personal expression. Thinking about your style can help you choose your dog’s clothing.

For example, you might think about the colors and tones that you wear when walking your dog. Heading out in matching coats will certainly catch people’s attention and will look seriously cute!

Make It Personal

Speaking of your dog’s style, it is a good idea to think about their personality. Matching this with their style can be a lot of fun.

THINK ABOUT THEIR TEMPERAMENT

If your dog is young and playful then you should opt for bright, entertaining prints. You could even choose something comedic to have fun with your dog’s clothing.

If your dog’s overall look is more understated and sophisticated then run with this. Muted tones and simple designs will look great on them.

CUSTOMIZE THEIR CLOTHING

Customizing your dog’s clothing will always make it extra special. A winter jumper with their initial on it or a football jersey with the team that you support will look amazing.

Try Out Seasonal Fashions

Some fashions are timeless and you can enjoy them all year round. But you can also jazz up your dog’s wardrobe by picking out items that are seasonal as well.

MAKE PRACTICAL SEASONAL CHOICES

Every doggy wardrobe needs:

• A winter coat for the cooler months
• Lightweight scarves, bandanas, or cooling jackets for the summer
• A sweater for special occasions

CELEBRATE HOLIDAYS WITH YOUR DOG’S CLOTHING

You can lean into seasonal trends for something extra special.

For example, you might get your dog a Christmas sweater around the festive season. And you could get them a Halloween costume for the end of October!

You can also celebrate these trends using patterns and color palettes. This is ideal if your dog doesn’t like wearing full clothing, such as coats or sweaters.

A festive bandana will get your dog into the holiday spirit. And during the spring and summer months, you can brighten things up with bolder prints!

This is the perfect way to quickly and simply switch up your dog’s wardrobe. So you can make the most of their clothing all year round.

Keep Practicality in Mind When Dressing Your Dog

Of course, fun, novelty dog clothing is all well and good. But you also need to think practically about the clothing that you choose for your dog.

CHOOSE COLORS THAT WILL LAST

Your dog’s clothing should be breathable and easy to wash. However, regular washing can make the fabric fade. Because of this, bright color palettes last longer than others.

Pale colors or pastel tones might also look amazing on your dog. But they will get dirty very quickly. If you are thinking about choosing light colors, be prepared to wash your dog’s clothes frequently.

FIND CLOTHING THAT IS EASY TO MOVE IN

Your dog needs to be able to move easily and go to the bathroom. Most dog clothing is designed with this in mind. It either:

• Only covers the front half of their body
• Features cutouts so that they can go to the bathroom easily

The position of these cutouts can be affected by the fit of your dog’s clothing. This is why you need to measure your dog carefully before buying dog clothing.

If you are finding it difficult to measure your dog then it is best to stick with a safer clothing option. Half-body outfits, neck scarves, and bandanas all present fewer logistical issues for you and your dog!

Find Amazing Dog Clothing For Your Pet Today

When it comes to dressing your dog it is important to find high-quality dog clothing and ease your pet into it. Getting them used to dog clothing at a young age and starting with smaller dog accessories can help.

If you are looking for stunning dog accessories to start your dog out with, be sure to take a look at Fanzy Petz’s latest collection of doggy bandanas! These breathable, reversible bandanas are the perfect way to introduce your pet to the world of doggy clothing in style. So check them out today!