Dog Clothes Benefits - Why and When To Put On Clothing

Some people may disagree on whether or not owners should dress their dogs in clothes. There are times, however, that dog clothing is essential to keeping your dog safe. Dog clothes keep your dog warm and dry, keep your dog clean, reduce insect bites, repel ticks and fleas, protect him from sunburn and keep him cool in the summer.

No dog likes to be too cold or too warm, but they have no way of communicating that to you. It is your responsibility to take cues from your dog. Is he shivering uncontrollably? Is he snuggled up in the nearest blanket? Is he lying near the heat vents to warm himself? This will warn you that he is cold and seeking out a place to stay warm. It is during these times that a jacket or sweater will help conserve your dog’s body heat.

On the other extreme, is your dog panting uncontrollably? Dogs cool themselves by panting and release heat through their paws and ears. During these times he would benefit from a light cotton jersey. This will help cool him by reflecting the hot rays of the sun and protect him from sunburn and potential heatstroke.

Be especially aware of the needs of small dogs. Small dog clothes are easy to find, both in stores and online. Small dogs cannot retain heat like the larger dogs, so plan on stocking up on a large wardrobe of little dog clothes!

When the temperature drops to bitter cold, your dog may need a heavy jacket. He'll stay warm in a lined Sherpa fleece or a parka with insulated lining. In chilly, damp weather, a lightweight sweatshirt would do the trick. A rain slicker is essential in rainy weather- it keeps your dog dry and you won’t have to dry him off.

Don’t forget the paws…dog boots are a necessity. Dog boots help protect your dog’s paws from the hot pavement in the summer and in the winter boots help protect their paws from snow and ice. They also provide protection from road debris, which could cause injury and discomfort.

Finally, dog pajamas keep your dog cozy and warm at night after a long day of being a dog, or for just lounging around. Dog pajamas are available in a variety of patterns and fabrics such as flannel and polar fleece.

If you have reservations about getting your dog some dog clothes, remember the benefits. Most dogs readily accept and appreciate clothing. For others, it may take a while. With experience, they usually come around.

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