Dogs and Clothes
There are some who consider the practice of dressing up dogs frivolous and unnatural. Everyone is entitled to his or her opinion, and here we share ours on the subject, starting first with a practical view of dog clothing.
Dog Clothing as Protection
Just because [most] dogs are born with a coat of fur, it does not exempt them from feeling cold, perhaps with the exception of long haired breeds originating from areas with cold climates. Today, many people own dogs of breeds which originated in distant lands where the natural climate is vastly different from the dogs’ current area of residence. Just as long-haired dogs can feel hot in summer, short haired dogs can feel cold in winter. Small dogs especially tend to be cold even in moderate temperatures, and it would be cruel to say that they should just be allowed to shiver and catch cold because that must be how Nature intended it. While dogs may seem tougher and more resilient than we are, pet dogs have been living in domestication for centuries and they are no longer as tough as their wild ancestors and relatives.
As long as the clothing is not uncomfortable and the dog likes or does not mind it, we don’t see why this shouldn’t be done. We know a Maltese who tends to have a short temper and often dislikes wearing clothes, but when the weather turns cold, not only does he not mind an extra layer, he welcomes it.
Just as the natural dog has been unnaturalized by domestication and civilization, so have our surroundings and the environment in which our dogs now reside. Paved or concrete streets, driveways and sidewalks turn hot during the day and can be uncomfortable for dogs who jog with their owners. Wearing dog boots or shoes can not only protect their feet from being burned and scraped, but can also help to prevent picking up of parasites such as hook worms which enter a host through the skin.
Dog Clothing for Fun
Perhaps the majority of dog apparel consumers falls under this category. While there are probably some dogs who don’t enjoy wearing clothes, we believe f or the most part that pet dogs do enjoy it. Just as many people consider their pets members of the family and no different or less than the human members, dogs consider themselves one of the family/pack and like to feel involved. We believe that wearing clothes makes them feel like that are being included (because after all we get to wear clothes everyday) and the additional attention brought on by the clothes make them feel special.
Our dogs Ludwig and Wolfgang grew up wearing clothes, and not only do they not mind wearing clothes, they enjoy it to the point of jealousy if one dog is dressed and the other isn’t. When dressed up, Ludwig runs around in excitement while Wolfgang sits very proudly awaiting the influx of compliments. We have heard from many of our customers how much their dogs love their clothes, and feel that as long as the dogs don’t mind, and as long as they are not uncomfortable, there is no harm in the practice.
In recent years, dog apparel has increased in popularity as dogs and dog owners discover the fun that can be had. For the most part, dogs enjoy wearing clothing because of the attention and compliments they receive when dressed up, and this shared interest also gives dogs and owners a fun and easy way to spend extra time together. Some opportunities for spending some quality time with your clothed dog:
- Pet parades and costume contests – Many communities hold pet parades and contests at least once or twice a year, especially around holidays. Check with your local paper, dog clubs, animal shelters and pet stores.
- Trick-or-treating – You’ve seen one Darth Vader, you’ve seen ‘em all. Imagine the possibilities with a four-legged trick-or-treating buddy.
- Easter egg hunts – How about holding a canine Easter Egg Hunt (maybe plastic eggs with dog biscuits inside) for your neighborhood dogs?
- Christmas caroling – After all caroling is mainly an outdoor activity and he’ll protect you from being lured indoors by extra evil Christmas cookie calories.
- Visit local children’s hospitals and old folks’ homes. Check with the facilities first to make sure your dog or cat is suitable for these types of visits. (And may we recommend our Satin Fairy Dog Dress for the visit!)
Tips for Enjoying Your Dog Clothes
- Make sure the clothing is not too tight on the Neck and Girth. Your dog cannot enjoy her dress if she cannot move or breath freely.
- Long or flluffy hair makes clothing tighter. If you have a long-haired dog, measure her with the tape measurer loose so as not to flatten the hair.
- Buy clothes with at least an inch of allowance, more for long hair.
- Always supervise your dog when she is dressed and do not leave her unattended with young children.
- If your dog has a tendency to chew and swallow things, check garment parts regularly to make sure buttons and other accents are firmly fixed.
Tips for Teaching Your Dog to Wear Clothes
- Start with easy to wear garments such as our Partial Bodice Dresses or Coats that close with a Velcro strip at the neck and girth.
- If she fusses with bits of her dress or hat, take her attention off of it with a toy or treat.
- Reward her for good behavior (not pawing or biting at her clothes) with praise and/or treats.
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Tags: christmas dog clothes, christmas dog dress, Dog Clothes, dog costume, dog dress, dogs, Pet Care Articles
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[...] from areas with cold climates. Today, many people own dogs of breeds which originated in d Source: http://frangadesigns.com/blog/dogs-and-clothes/13 Jul 15, 2008 | | Dog [...]
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