Dressing up your dog is a way to celebrate your pet and show it off in its best style. It can also protect it from the temperature or climate or make it more comfortable when it’s outside.

Many people associate dressing up their dogs with fun and entertainment. Here are some tips on how to dress up your dog and what to consider when shopping for dog gear or clothing.

Less Is More

You may be tempted to dress up your dog in all sorts of dog gear, but less is always more. For some pups, something as minimal as a bandana over their collar is all they need to look dashing. Pair them with one item before you shop for more elaborate outfits to understand how your dog responds to clothing.

Keep Them Relaxed

You don’t want your dog to have a negative experience wearing clothes. It may take some time for them to get used to wearing certain clothes, so be patient and keep the process relaxed, calm, and low-pressure for your dog.

Dog Gear

Look for stylish dog gear like Canada Pooch. With their products, you can dress up your dog without wearing impractical clothing. Common dog gear in various styles includes harnesses, backpacks, raincoats, dog collars, and leashes.

Fit Matters

Clothing that is too baggy can get caught when they walk. Too tight dog gear can be extremely uncomfortable, restrict movement, affect breathing, and chafe their fur. Ensure the fit of your dog gear is right for your pup.

Doing Normal Things

Your dog should be able to walk without restrictions, go to the toilet, and groom themselves in what they’re wearing. Anything that restricts the body should not be worn.

Be Careful on Hot Days

Take temperature into consideration when selecting an outfit. Dogs are already at risk of overheating in the summer. Avoid dog gear and clothing altogether on a particularly hot day unless it cools.

High-Visibility Jackets

Your dog will stay safe on busy roads during lowlight hours and will be visible in dangerous situations if you keep a high-visibility jacket on him.

Consider how reflective your dog’s dress is or if it further hides them at night. This should be considered if you routinely take them for walks in the late evening hours.

Avoid Toxic Ingredients

Most high-quality dog clothing does not contain toxins, but some lesser-quality costumes do. Glitter and dyes can be toxic if consumed. If accessories with these ingredients or others make you question their safety, you may disregard the clothing.

Don’t Choose an Itchy Fabric

Some clothing may be itchy to dogs, and, like humans, dogs may have an allergy to a specific type of material, such as synthetic materials, wool, or polyester.

Be Aware of What They Might Choke On

Any clothing with buttons, gemstones, or other pieces that could be chewed off, swallowed, and possibly choked on is a hazard. These are often more common on accessories or smaller parts of an outfit.

Cover Paws in Winter

When it gets very cold, and the ground is covered in snow, salt, and ice, it makes sense to put protective boots on your dog’s paws. Especially if your dog already has a cut, scrape, or injury on their paw, boots provide premium-grade protection against the elements.

Consider a Coat In Winter

Consider a well-fitted coat for any cold winter day if your dog has thin fur or is small. This will help it keep warm.

Pay Attention to Your Pet’s Response

Your pet’s behaviour may indicate stress or discomfort when dressed. If your dog cannot get used to the outfit you’ve put it in, it’s best to remove what it has on and let it exist freely for a bit. You may try again, but it’s generally recommended that if your dog is uncomfortable, don’t do anything that will stress it unnecessarily.

Avoid Unrealistic Accessories

Things like sunglasses are cute in theory but only do a little for your dog. Sunglasses, in particular, affect their vision, which most dogs dislike. Unless you want to snap a quick photo of them in a specific accessory, these aren’t realistic for prolonged use for any outfit.

Test Out Important Outfits

If you want your dog to be dressed up for a special occasion, put it in its outfit a week before and allow it to walk around the house. Make sure they try it out. If they’ve never worn an outfit, they may need positive reinforcement and dog treats to let them know it’s okay.