Clothes for your dog
For many, dogs are as much a part of the family as Aunt Sylvia and Uncle Hal. But instead of just seeing them on birthdays and holidays, our dogs are our daily companions and are often treated to the same creature comforts at home as their two-legged owners. So it’s not surprising that dog clothes are big business; you don’t want your furry friend to be cold or get wet on their walk, do you? We checked in with Jane Given, designer and owner of Scarlett DreamCoats to find out what’s available for your pooch and what every design-savvy dog should have in their wardrobe.
CanadianLiving.com: What kinds of clothing products are available on the market for pets?
Jane Given: There's a huge spectrum of clothing for pets on the market today … from very utilitarian to over the top fashion and everything in between.
CL.com: What should every dog have in their wardrobe?
JG: For shorthaired dogs living in cold climates or for smaller dogs that are a little more delicate, a warm coat and a raincoat are just the right thing. It's interesting how many larger sized dogs (Dobermans, Great Danes, etc.) get cold because they have such short coats, as well as, of course, the smaller breeds.
If you're going to be spending any amount of time outdoors ... and we know that exercise is good for both our four-legged friends and for us ... then it's a great idea to keep your dog warm and comfortable. And for rainy days, we've found that even longhaired dogs can enjoy the benefits of wearing a raincoat.
CL.com: Do dogs really like to wear clothing?
JG: Many dogs instantly enjoy wearing coats. They seem to immediately love the feel of the soft and comfortable faux fur in our coats. I started Scarlett DreamCoats because we adopted a greyhound and we live in a cold climate. She absolutely needed to wear a coat in the cold or wet weather and she loves it. Most shorthaired dogs, especially those living in cold climates, seem to welcome the added warmth and protection a coat provides.
CL.com: Is it safe for dogs to wear clothing?
JG: Yes – as long as the owner uses common sense. In other words, wearing a winter coat in 90-degree weather would not be a safe thing to do.
CL.com: Are there any hazards or difficulties?
JG: It's important to purchase the correct size coat for your dog. Avoid an ill-fitting coat that may inhibit movement.
CL.com: What tips can you provide to help pet owners when clothing their dog?
JG: Follow the directions on how to measure your pet correctly for the appropriately sized coat. If your dog is a little unsure of the new coat, start slowly allowing them to get comfortable with the clothing.
Dos and don'ts for dressing your pet
Do find a coat that's functional, one that will keep your pet warm and dry.
Do fit your dog correctly for a coat and ask for assistance from the company you’re purchasing from, if necessary
Do find a coat that matches your personal sense of style.
Don't overdress your pooch in warmer climates.
Check out the next page next page of our photo gallery for our top 8 clothing picks for your dog.
Natalie Bahadur is the Senior Editor of Styleathome.com and is a regular contributor to CanadianLiving.com.
