Dog Clothes

You've all seen them. Chihuahuas in sweaters hand-knitted by their adoring blue-haired owners. Dog clothing originated to give short haired dogs a little extra warmth in cold climes. Generally, the sweater would go over the dog's head and cover his front two legs with "sleeves" while wrapping around the body.

Dog Clothing Trends

Today, dog attire is not limited to fuzzy sweaters or bandannas. You can find raincoats and rainboots, jackets and sweaters, dresses, shirts, hats, and sunglasses for your furry best friend. Want to go a little over the top? You can get your dog swimwear, pajamas, robes and sportwear. Taking your lapdog to a formal occasion? You can even find dog formalwear.

Washable Dog Clothes

No matter what you buy for your furry friend, the clothes must be washable. Remember, you are buying clothes for your dog. No matter how much you love him, he will get dirty and stinky. Unless you want him to wear each outfit only once, you will want to wash his clothes.

Be sure to buy items that can be washed without shrinking. Polyester is one fabric that stands up to multiple washings. Read the tags provided on the clothes before making a purchase. The fabric content and washing instructions should be on the tag. If this information is not provided, you will be better off buying something else.

The Cost of Dog Clothes

High-quality dog clothing is expensive. If you can sew, you can save quite a bit of money by making Fifi's clothes yourself. Patterns for dog clothing are abundant in fabric stores and on the Internet. You may also be able to create your own patterns, if you are handy enough.

Buy with Habits in Mind

Keep your dog's habits and behaviors in mind when purchasing dog clothes. Most dogs love to chew, so it is important that the dog clothes you buy don’t have hidden choking hazards. Dogs are prone to chewing off buttons and flashy accessories. Remember that dogs like to explore with their mouths like perpetual two-year-olds.

Keep Closure Devices Simple

Look for materials like Velcro instead of buttons and snaps. This self-sticking fabric will let you adjust your dog's clothing as they lose and gain weight, and shed and grow fur. Additionally, you need not worry about buttons or snaps being chewed off and eaten if you use Velcro. You do not want your dog’s expensive designer dog clothes to require a trip to the emergency room.

Don't forget that any item you buy must have a hole for a leash. Professional dog clothes makers usually make sure to provide this slit, but keep it in mind if you are making your dog's clothes yourself. Also be sure to provide a hole for your dog's tail if you are making pants or a one piece outfit.

No Standard Sizing

When it comes to dog clothing, there is no international standard of measurement. Individual manufacturers often make up their own sizing charts. Be sure to measure your dog exactly as the clothing manufacturer suggests and compare your measurements to the sizing on the package. A better idea is too try the outfit on your dog before you purchase, Fido permitting. Information required for proper fit usually includes collar size, chest size as measured just behind the forelegs and body length from the base of the neck to where the tail begins.

Where To Shop For Dog Clothing

You can find lovely outfits for your dog in pet stores, designer boutiques and online stores. Heed the advice provided above, no matter where you shop, and you will be happy with your dog clothing purchase. As a bonus, you will have an adorably dressed dog to boot. Happy shopping.