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There are many opportunities to update your dog’s style all year round. If you have a puppy, you will need to take updated measurements on a regular basis. Keeping track of the neck, chest, and body length measurements of an adult dog can also make it easier to purchase new practical pieces such as coats, shirts and sweaters or fun costumes. Here are 10 helpful sizing tips for selecting any type of garment for your pooch.
1. Add Two Fingers
It is a good idea to use a measuring tape made of soft material for taking your dog’s measurements. A measuring tape that is intended for sewing can provide more accurate measurements and should be less likely to frighten your pup than rigid, metal tape. Wrap the measuring tape around the head, neck, chest or any other portion of your pet that you intend to measure and insert two fingers before recording the final measurement. This wiggle room helps to make sure that your pet will be able to move around comfortably in clothing or a costume and may reduce rubbing around the limbs or in other sensitive spots.
2. Factor In Bathroom Habits
You may also need to factor in the way your dog uses the bathroom when selecting garments. Male dogs tend to raise their legs to urinate, and you should consider this necessity when picking clothes or dress-up outfits. Look for designs that are cut away from the belly or groin area. Many dog shirts and sweaters are made to provide a dry, comfortable fit, as are most vests and coats. If you plan to dress up your pup in a costume, consider a design with a shorter width. This killer whale costume, for instance, provides a secure fit behind the front legs while leaving the back open for your dog’s comfort.
3. Check the Temperature
Check the weather before you venture outside with your dog in clothing or a costume. If a dog has a thin coat or is very young or old, you should always prioritize his or her warmth. Consider putting on a coat or sweater while outdoors and switching to a costume after you arrive at an indoor destination. Dogs with arthritis and some chronic medical conditions may benefit from wearing clothing indoors, and a costume may not provide sufficient warmth to relieve joint pain. The comfort of your pet should be your top priority when selecting clothing and costumes.
4. Confirm Ground Clearance
Most clothing that is designed for dogs is intended to provide a close fit. Any costume you choose should be short enough that it does not drag on the ground and impede your pet's motion. If you are thinking about dressing your pooch in a costume designed to hang down, such as a superhero dog costume complete with a cape, make sure to consider the height of your pet and the length of the garment. Your dog should be able to comfortably walk in a costume. Depending on your pet’s activity level and range of motion, you may prefer designs that keep decorative features up high rather than risking damage to the costume.
5. Don’t Forget About Growth
An outfit sized to fit a puppy may not still be comfortable for the same dog to wear after a matter of months. If a young pet wore clothing or a costume some time ago, it’s a good idea to take new measurements before purchasing garments to ensure that you select items that will provide the best fit.
6. Factor In Fastening
The style of fasteners on a coat or costume can make or break an adorable outfit. Active pets may easily work their way out of designs that only rely on velcro fasteners. The weight of a dog can also affect how well a garment will stay on as he or she moves. A pullover style sweater or costume such as a dragon sweatshirt may be more likely to stay put. Check to see how any outfit fastens to ensure that the design is a practical choice.
7. Preserve Your Pet’s Senses
Your dog will be most comfortable in outfits that leave all of his or her senses intact. Animals rely on their sight, smell and hearing to navigate the world. Your pet will be more likely to enjoy wearing clothing or costumes that do not completely cover the ears, nose, and mouth and that leave the tail free.
8. Look Out for Loose Pieces
Select costumes that do not feature buttons or other small objects that your dog may chew on and potentially swallow. The best costumes for pets pose little or no choking risk. It is still a good idea to monitor a pup who is wearing a costume to avoid interactions with the material in ways that may destroy the costume or undermine his or her safety.
9. Reward Your Pet
Wearing garments or costumes should be a special treat for owners and pets. If you need to measure your pooch for a new outfit, this is a good opportunity for bonding and positive enforcement. Give treats and praise throughout the process and keep treats on hand when introducing the costume and putting it on. Your dog will come to associate wearing the costume with receiving praise and rewards.
10. Don’t Leave Costumes On Too Long
A pet can wear a costume for several hours, but many costumes do not provide as comfortable of a fit as a coat or clothing. Costumes are fun options for special occasions, but a dog sweater is a better choice for daily wear in cool weather.
All of these tips can help you select clothing and costumes that are cute, comfortable and safe for your dog to wear. If a pet does not enjoy dressing up in costumes, you might consider a shirt or sweater that features a message or design. Whether you celebrate National Dress Up Your Pet Day or any other occasion, there are many costume and clothing options suitable for every dog.
