Paws-itively Stylish: 6 Reasons Why Your Dog Should Wear Clothes

Many haters think clothing your dog is like dressing up your Barbie. But dog clothes are actually a much more serious matter than playing dress-up.

While there’s nothing wrong with having a fashionable dog, clothing can also guarantee their comfort and your peace of mind.

Here are a few important reasons to consider dog clothes:

#1 Short-coated dogs wear clothes for protection, not just fashion 

Hearts Knit Dog Sweater

You might mistakenly reason that your dog has a natural jacket or coat and that this should be sufficient for them during wintertime. 

But is that completely true?

Think about it this way: While we humans might wear a thin added layer for protection from the cold on an autumn evening, we likely reach for our big coats when we see the first winter storm approaching. 

Why?

Because we need to adjust our clothing to the current weather patterns.

It’s the same for your dog. While their own coat might be enough for most of the year, they might need an extra layer when temperatures drop.

Short-haired breeds like French Bulldogs, Pitbulls and Pugs are known to be sensitive to the cold.

So if you live in a cold climate and notice that your furry friend struggles with heat retention, try dressing them in a warm winter jacket and keep them comfy and healthy.

#2 Small dogs need help keeping warm

Dog Pajama - Breakfast Blue

Small dogs can’t keep warm just by curling up and they typically have less body fat to help contain their body heat.

This is especially true for toy dog breeds, like Chihuahuas and Yorkies. That is also why they've become some of the most fashionable breeds.

People love to dress them up in small dog clothes because they look good in almost anything! Plus, they actually need it!

So as the colder months approach, get your pint-sized pooch a sweater or jacket to protect them from the freeze.

#3: Cold temperatures are harsh, especially on seniors.

Cable Knit Dog Sweater - Blue

Dogs of any age can develop hypothermia, but older dogs tend to be more sensitive to cold temperatures.

Many senior dogs also develop arthritis and other mobility problems as they age. Cold weather can make stiff, achy joints more uncomfortable, which may leave your dog slower to get moving or less enthusiastic about a winter walk.

Keep an eye out for shivering, reluctance to move, or repeatedly trying to head back indoors. Shorter walks and a warm, well-fitting dog hoodie or coat can give an older pup some extra protection from the cold. Just remember that clothing can help keep them warm, but it isn't a treatment for arthritis or other age-related health problems.

#4: Reduces the amount of fur in your home

If you’re a dog parent, you’re likely BFFs with your vacuum cleaner.

One of the best perks of dog clothing is that it can help keep loose fur under control. Instead of ending up all over your couch, carpet, clothes, and car seats, some shed hair gets caught inside the garment, making cleanup a little easier. 

Of course, clothes won't stop your dog from shedding. But during heavy shedding periods, a comfortable, well-fitting shirt, sweater, or hoodie can help contain some of that loose hair until you take the garment off and wash it.

#5: Our dogs make our fashion dreams come true

Essential Human Hoodies Teal

Let’s face it. We’ll never look as good as our pets, especially when they have on the latest in dog fashion trends. 

But our dogs are our children and we want them to look dope, even if it means they get all the attention.

However, matching clothing with your dog is a great way to make a fashion statement and show off your unique style as a team. Whether you're out for a walk or running errands, coordinating outfits with your dog is a fun way to stand out.

#6 Dogs wear clothing for medical reasons

Some dogs need protective clothing due to medical conditions.

This might include minor skin conditions or something more serious, such as surgery.

In the case of skin irritation, light, a breathable t-shirt could prevent your dog from scratching or nibbling at its itchy skin. And in the event of an operation, dog clothing would be helpful to protect the incision site from getting dirty or infected.

Potential risks of dog clothes

Dog clothes can be helpful, but the wrong outfit can leave your pup uncomfortable or even create a safety risk.

Make sure the garment is not so tight that it restricts breathing or movement, or so loose that a leg could slip inside it. Your dog should be able to walk, run, lie down and go to the bathroom without the clothing getting in the way.

You should also watch for overheating. Heavy or poorly ventilated clothing can trap body heat, especially indoors, during exercise or on dogs with thick coats. Remove the garment if your dog starts panting heavily, drooling, acting restless or feeling unusually warm.

Check beneath the clothing for redness, rubbing or tangled fur, and remove wet clothes promptly because damp fabric can cause chafing and make your dog cold. Avoid outfits with loose buttons, cords or decorations that could be chewed or swallowed and do not leave your dog unattended while wearing unfamiliar clothing.

Ok, but which breeds don't need dog clothes?

Not every dog needs an extra layer when temperatures drop. Breeds with thick, insulating double coats, such as Siberian Huskies, Alaskan Malamutes, and Samoyeds, are naturally better equipped for cold weather and may actually become too warm in heavy clothing.

On the other hand, dogs with short or thin coats, small or lean bodies, or difficulty regulating their body temperature may benefit from a sweater or jacket in colder conditions.

Your dog's lifestyle matters too. A healthy, thick-coated dog that spends most of its time in a comfortably heated home may have little need for clothing at all.

So before you go on a puppy jacket shopping spree, consider your dog's coat, size, age, health, the weather, and how much time they'll actually spend outdoors.

How cold is too cold for a dog without clothes?

There is no exact temperature at which every dog needs a coat. A small, short-haired dog may start feeling cold while a large dog with a thick double coat is still completely comfortable.

The weather also matters. Wind and rain can make dogs lose body heat faster, while snow can leave their bellies and paws cold and wet. Once temperatures approach freezing, keep outings shorter and pay close attention to your dog.

Shivering, lifting the paws, slowing down, hunching the body or repeatedly trying to turn home are all signs that your pup may be too cold. Bring them indoors and warm them gradually rather than relying on clothing to extend the walk.

A well-fitting sweater or jacket can provide extra protection on the next outing. However, even the warmest dog coat is not a substitute for limiting time outside in severe weather.

Some dog clothes are as practical as they are fashionable, like a water-resistant dog jacket. 

These jackets are made from water-resistant materials and come with a reflective strip on the side, keeping your pup dry and visible in low-light conditions.

What if my dog hates wearing clothes?

If you notice signs that your dog hates wearing clothing then don’t force them.

True, it might take them a while to get used to the idea. So in the early stages they might walk a bit funny or even try to back out of their coat or jacket. Give it a few days and see if they adapt to their new clothes.

If they continue to show frustration or discomfort, simply take their clothes off and shelve the idea. Clothes might just not be for your pooch.

A final thought

So, should dogs wear clothes? Sometimes. Small, short-haired, senior dogs or dogs with certain health conditions may benefit from an extra layer, while thick-coated dogs may be more comfortable without one. Whatever the reason, the right outfit should suit the weather, fit properly and let your pup move with ease.

Think your dog could benefit? Explore Spark Paws dog clothes and find an option that fits their needs and personality.

Frequently asked questions

Does wearing clothes calm dogs?

Regular dog clothes aren't designed to treat anxiety, although some dogs may find soft, comfortable clothing reassuring. Purpose-made pressure wraps may help some anxious dogs, but evidence for their effectiveness is limited. Don't make a regular hoodie tighter in an attempt to create the same effect. 

How do I know if my dog needs clothes?

Your dog may benefit from clothes if they are small, short-haired, senior, underweight, or otherwise struggle to stay warm. Shivering, lifting the paws, hunching, slowing down, or refusing to walk are signs that your dog may already be too cold, so bring them somewhere warm. A well-fitting sweater or coat can provide extra protection on future cold-weather outings. 

Do vets recommend dog sweaters?

Vets may recommend sweaters for small dogs, senior dogs, dogs with thin coats, and breeds such as Chihuahuas or Greyhounds when temperatures drop. Not all dogs need sweaters, so consider the weather, time outdoors, coat type, and individual health needs. 

Can dogs wear clothes indoors or at night?

Most dogs do not need to wear clothes indoors or at night if the room is comfortably warm. Clothing may help keep a pup warm in a cold home, but remove it if the dog begins panting, scratching, acting restless, or feeling unusually warm.

Can dogs overheat while wearing clothes?

Yes, dogs can overheat if clothing is too warm, restrictive, or worn in unsuitable temperatures. Remove the clothing if your dog begins panting excessively, drooling, acting restless, or trying to escape the garment.

How should dog clothes fit?

Dog clothes should fit securely without being tight, loose, or restrictive. For comfort and safety, check that your dog can walk, breathe, lie down, and use the bathroom normally, and remove the garment if it causes rubbing or discomfort.