Cold weather for a husky is a walk in the park, but deep in winter many owners of short-haired dogs and cats might be hoping to alleviate temperature discomfort for their pets. Often small dogs are seen strutting their stuff in tiny quilted jackets, or fleece vests. But what about bigger dogs, or even cats? And how does one choose the “right” clothing items for a pet?
Safety
The best place to start is always with safety and practical choices in mind. Utilitarian pet clothes can come in all shapes and functions, such as flotation vests for water-obsessed dogs, or high-visibility colors when outside at night. Ideal pet clothing is centered around three main requirements: correct sizing, safe silhouettes, and functionality. If your pet’s jacket is too small or too big, it can cause them chafing or discomfort. Additionally, clothes with hanging items or easily snaggable features could cause them to become stuck in places where they normally wouldn’t be. Functionality is also important. Believe it or not, not all pet clothes are designed with their bodily functions in mind. Find clothing your pet can wear while going to the bathroom, and that works as intended while on your pet.
Fabric and Fasteners
Pet clothing can come in a variety of fabrics with different fasteners, and what works for one dog may not work for another.
In choosing a fabric, many pet clothes are made with polyester for ease of laundering. This also means that they are not particularly breathable. Part of putting a pet in clothes also means periodically checking to make sure they are not overheating or wearing wet items for an extended time.
Pet items often are fastened with velcro, snaps, or elastic. Depending on the dexterity of your hands and whether or not your pet hates the sound of velcro, this may limit your choices as well.
Cats and Large Dogs
Plenty of animals besides Dachshunds and Chihuahuas can wear clothing, as long as it follows all of the safety guidelines. Cats and larger dogs with short hair may be appreciative of a well-fitting sweater as weather gets colder, if they are given time to acclimate to it.
How to tell if your pet hates clothes
Not all dogs or cats will want to wear clothes. No matter how cute they are, some will find the activity irritating or uncomfortable.
If your dog has a tucked tail or ears, avoids eye contact, or has tension in their mouth, they are likely not a fan of their new duds.
The same may be the case if your cat is holding their ears backwards or sideways, is crouching, or keeping their tail very close to their body while wearing or putting on clothes. If that is the case, you will need to be content with the outfit they were born with instead of a fancy new wardrobe.
Only you will be able to figure out if your pet enjoys being put in clothes. Some of them are necessary for safety, and others just for fun. To ensure everyone is having fun during these experiences, pay close attention to your pet’s responses and needs and adjust accordingly.
DISCLAIMER: This post has been reviewed by any pertinent staff members of JHACC. Artificial Intelligence has in no way been used to create this content, and it is considered correct to the best of our knowledge as of the date of publication.
Read more about preparing pets for cold weather here.
Sources:
https://www.rover.com/blog/why-dress-up-dogs/
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/dog-clothes-weather-safety/
https://www.petmd.com/dog/behavior/how-to-read-dog-body-language
https://www.petmd.com/cat/behavior/cat-body-language
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