The Best Dog Apparel
Whether you’re trying to fulfill a practical need, like keeping your dog cool in the heat, or searching for a piece that aligns with your dog’s unique personality, there’s an apparel brand ready to outfit your pooch.
To make our list we searched for brands that offer comfortable clothing for dogs while taking into account sustainability practices and eco-friendly sourcing for manufacturing.
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Our Top Picks
Best Overall Sweaters: Chilly Dog Boyfriend (From $15)
Best Overall Coats & Jackets: PetRageous Juneau (From $25)
Best Overall Bandanas: Odi Style Bandana ($15)
Best Overall Shirts: KYEESE Sun Protection
The Best Dog Sweaters
A great dog sweater is fashionable, comfortable, fits well, and will keep your dog from shivering on cold days.
While large breed dogs and dogs with long hair don’t typically need sweaters to stay warm, there are many dogs that can benefit from an extra layer of insulation. Hairless or short-coated breeds lose more heat than dogs with an undercoat. A sweater can also help smaller dogs, like Chihuahuas or Dachshunds, retain body heat.
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The Best Coats & Jackets
A jaunt with your dog in cold, wet weather can be chilly for your best friend. A warm, waterproof jacket will ensure they remain comfortable and dry, no matter if they’re outside for a pee break or an extended session at the dog run. To find the best winter coat for your dog, we tested 10 dog jackets for insulation, waterproofing, warmth, and comfort.
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The Best Dog Bandanas
Clothing and accessories for our furry friends aren’t going out of style anytime soon. There is no better way to outfit your pup than with our picks for the best dog bandanas. Unlike jackets and boots, bandanas are an accessory that won’t be bothersome for your dog. Most dog bandanas are tied to the best dog collars or worn loosely around the neck.
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The Best Dog Shirts
Dog shirts are both fashionable and practical: your pet can flaunt a fun design while staying warm and toasty during chillier days of the year. Take a look at our selection of best dog shirts for pooches of all styles and sizes!
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Dog Apparel Review: Applications, Benefits, and Buying Recommendations
Many dog owners still believe that clothing for dogs is unnecessary and contributes to the “humanization” of the animal. Well, that is indeed a misconception. Although not every dog may need clothing, dog clothing proves to be a significant advantage in many situations, at least for certain breeds. Unlike in the case of humans, the focus of dog clothing is not on the fashionable aspect but rather on the health of the quadrupeds. Especially small, elderly, or short-haired furry friends can suffer greatly from the cold in autumn and winter. Additionally, road salt can be harmful to the paws and skin of dogs, making dog clothing a solution.
It’s no wonder, then, that you can increasingly observe dogs wearing protective vests, dog jackets, dog shoes, and other clothing items here in the country. Dog clothing is available in various shapes, colors, materials, and sizes in stores. For the extensive dog clothing test, I examined the different clothing items in detail and compared them with each other. Feel free to read my dog clothing comparison to get comprehensive information on this topic. Of course, I’ve also outlined the key buying criteria for you and introduced recommended brands for dog clothing. After reading, you will definitely be able to make an informed purchase decision in this regard!
What is dog clothing exactly?
Dog clothing is the umbrella term for garments specifically designed for dogs. These garments primarily serve to protect quadrupeds from weather conditions or other adverse conditions. There is a variety of dog clothing suitable for different purposes and activities, including:
- Raincoats
- Winter coats
- Vests
- Scarves
- Shoes
- Socks
- Goggles for dogs
- Thundershirts
Dog clothing is made from various materials such as cotton, leather, fleece, and many other fabrics. Additionally, the clothing for the quadrupeds is available in different sizes and colors. This ensures that there is something suitable for every dog breed and taste. The choice of whether and which dog clothing to select for your dog depends primarily on the breed and the individual needs of the dog.
Usage: Why do dogs need clothing?
Many people firmly believe that a dog does not need clothing, after all, quadrupeds have fur – and the wolf also doesn’t wear a winter coat. Of course, nature is smart and has indeed equipped the wolf with a thick fur coat so that it does not need clothing. But: The dog breeds with which most people share their homes have little in common with the original wolf. Numerous breeds are not only significantly smaller and thus much closer to the cold ground than the wolf but also have much thinner and shorter fur with less undercoat. Consequently, most dogs freeze in autumn and winter when it rains, storms, and snows outside.
Dogs Develop Less Winter Coat Than Wolves
In addition, nowadays, dogs often spend most of their time indoors. It’s warm and dry there. Consequently, many quadrupeds do not develop as thick a winter coat as the wolf, which lives outdoors in the forest day in and day out. When our dogs then go outside for a walk, the temperature difference is enormous. The dog feels cold, which can affect its health. In addition to colds, bladder infections and other illnesses can occur. This is where dog clothing comes into play because it can protect your quadruped from the cold and wet weather outdoors.
Dog Clothing – Practical for Short-haired, Small, Older, Young, and Sick Dogs
Dog clothing is particularly important for all small breeds. These dogs lose heat much faster than larger dogs and should be protected with appropriate clothing. Similarly, dogs with little fur appreciate an additional layer of clothing during walks. The same applies to older dogs, which cannot regulate their body temperature as well and, just like older people, simply feel colder faster. Especially if your quadruped suffers from arthritis, dog clothing is a must. Because the cold exacerbates the symptoms. Even small puppies, who are still developing their immune system and defenses, can wear dog clothing to avoid getting cold outside.
Not All Dog Breeds Need Dog Clothing
Of course, there are dog breeds that are well adapted to cold climates. These include, for example:
- Shar-Pei
- Siberian Husky
- Chow Chow
- Samoyed
These dogs generally do not need clothing outdoors. However, keep in mind that even such breeds develop less winter coat in the home environment than their counterparts who spend much more time outdoors. In icy temperatures, it may still be useful to dress these breeds in a warming winter coat.
All Quadrupeds Benefit from Dog Clothing in Rainy Weather
Regardless of the breed and size of the dog, all quadrupeds benefit from appropriate waterproof clothing in rainy weather. Even dogs with thick and dense fur can get cold easily when soaked in rain. Fortunately, there are waterproof rain jackets and coats for dogs that keep the fur largely dry. This benefits you in the end too, as your dog doesn’t come home completely soaked. This eliminates the need to clean and dry the – often very unpleasant-smelling – fur completely.
What Types of Dog Clothing Are There According to the Test?
Dog clothing comes in a wide variety of forms and styles. In the following table, I will introduce you to the most popular clothing items for furry friends currently available in stores.
Dog Coat:
A dog jacket or coat is especially suitable for the winter months. This garment is popular for quadrupeds with short fur, puppies, and sensitive breeds. Dog coats provide good protection against low temperatures.
Dog Raincoat:
During rainy weather, dog raincoats are often used to keep the fur dry and protected from moisture. Especially older, sick, small, or very young dogs benefit from a waterproof raincoat.
Softshell Coat:
A dog coat made of softshell is water-repellent and provides good protection against wind. It is perfect for dogs with little fur and in rough weather conditions during autumn and winter.
Dog Sweater / Dog Vest
Dog sweaters come in many colors and from numerous materials. The garment is breathable and provides good air circulation. It works well for those cool days in spring or autumn that require some protection against the cold, but a winter coat would be too thick and warm. Similarly, a dog vest can also be used in these weather conditions.
Dog Safety Vest:
Dog safety vests are primarily designed to increase the visibility of the quadruped in the dark. Especially in foggy weather and at dusk, such dog vests are a must for every dog.
Dog Life Jacket:
A dog life jacket is a type of life-saving vest that your dog should wear when boating with you. Especially dogs that cannot swim yet should always wear a dog life jacket in deep water.
Dog Shirt:
Dog shirts are particularly thin. They are suitable for small dogs with very little fur who quickly get cold – for example, on cool summer evenings or mild autumn and spring days.
Dog Scarf:
With a dog scarf, you can warm your dog, especially in the neck area. The scarf is quickly put on and protects the neck and chest from cold, drafts, and moisture.
Dog Hat:
Even dogs can get cold ears in strong winds. This can be avoided with a stylish dog hat. However, not all quadrupeds equally accept the dog hat.
Dog Bathrobe:
After your dog has enjoyed a bath in the bathtub or in the lake, you can wrap him in a dog bathrobe. The special material of the bathrobes absorbs a lot of moisture without your quadruped getting cold.
Dog Shoes:
Dog shoes are primarily intended for winter. Cold and wet snow affects dog paws as well as road salt in cities. But even in summer, walking on hot asphalt can lead to paw pain. With dog shoes, the sensitive paws are well protected from all adverse influences.
Dog Body Suit:
The dog body suit is a special garment that dogs can wear after surgical procedures or injuries. This supports wound healing and prevents your dog from licking, scratching, or nibbling on the wound.
Heat Panties and Diapers:
For female dogs in heat or incontinent dogs, heat panties and diapers are also available in stores. They protect the area around the quadruped from bloodstains, mucous secretions, urine, and feces. In addition, these garments keep the dog clean and dry.
The Main Advantages and Disadvantages of Dog Apparel
The question of whether dog clothing is necessary or not regularly sparks heated debates – both among dog owners themselves and among dog owners and individuals who do not have their own dog. While some perceive dog clothing as “humanization” and consider it completely unnecessary, others consider it indispensable. Are you unsure whether to dress your furry friend outside in a warming coat or sweater? Then the following list of advantages and disadvantages will surely help you with your purchase decision.
Advantages:
- Dog clothing protects against rain, cold, and wind in autumn and winter.
- Injuries such as scratches, bumps, or scrapes are avoided.
- Reliable protection against parasites and bacteria.
- The clothing especially protects older or pre-existing conditions-sensitive dogs who are sensitive to cold and react with pain at low temperatures.
- Dog shoes protect the paws from cold, glass shards, very hot surfaces, and road salt.
Disadvantages:
- You have to be careful that your dog does not overheat, especially when temperatures fluctuate or your quadruped is very active.
- Some dogs find the clothing uncomfortable because it rubs, is not breathable, or simply fits too tightly.
- Some fabrics or colors can trigger allergies.
- Animals with a lot of undercoat could be restricted in their freedom of movement by the clothing.
- The dog must definitely get used to the dog clothing, which sometimes requires patience.
Buying Criteria: What's Important When Buying Dog Apparel?
Dog clothing is abundantly available in stores, like proverbial sand at the beach. The selection can be overwhelming for amateurs, making it challenging to choose the right clothing for your own dog. As my dog clothing test has shown, there are some important criteria that should influence your purchasing decision. Fashion aspects are relatively unimportant, while functionality and fit are of higher significance. I have researched for you and will reveal in the following sections which points you should definitely consider when buying dog clothing.
Material:
Material is of enormous importance in dog clothing. The garments should be breathable and provide good air circulation, as otherwise, your furry friend could quickly sweat in his winter coat – especially if he moves a lot. Materials frequently used for dog clothing include:
- Cotton
- Wool
- Acrylic
The choice of material depends mainly on the area of application. Cotton is a good and breathable material for summer, while warm wool is suitable for colder days. Garments with water-repellent outer materials are well suited for raincoats and coats.
Functionality:
The functionality of dog clothing is, of course, of great importance to ensure optimal protection for your beloved pet. The following extras are often present in dog clothing and contribute to high functionality:
- Windproof: Special coatings and specific materials ensure that the dog clothing repels the wind. This applies especially to softshell jackets and coats.
- Breathable: Shirts and lightweight sweaters for autumn or spring should be breathable; otherwise, your furry friend could quickly overheat.
- Reflectors: Reflective strips and reflectors increase your dog’s safety in traffic – especially in the cold season when you are frequently out with your dog in the dusk and dark.
- Collar: A collar protects your dog from drafts and cold on the neck and throat.
- Hood: A hood is practical when it’s raining and stormy because it protects your favorite’s head and ears from moisture and drafts.
- Leash compatibility: The garments should allow you to comfortably attach your dog’s leash via collar or, even better, via harness.
Size:
Size also plays a crucial role when buying dog clothing. Different manufacturers use different specifications to determine the size of their garments, making it difficult for you to orient yourself clearly. Before buying, you should thoroughly measure your furry friend with a tape measure:
- Back length: Measure the entire length of the torso – from the neck to the base of the tail.
- Width: Determine the distance between your quadruped’s shoulder blades.
- Chest circumference: Place the tape measure around your dog’s chest to determine the chest circumference.
- Neck circumference: Measure the neck by loosely placing the tape measure around your quadruped’s neck.
- Belly circumference: For this, guide the tape measure around the thickest part of your furry friend’s belly.
You can then compare the values obtained with the size specifications of the manufacturers. Often, you will find a table in the product description to help you determine the size. Otherwise, the motto is, of course, “try it on!” If possible, you should let your dog try on the clothing. This way, you ensure selecting garments with a perfect fit. In general, choose clothing a little looser rather than too tight, as otherwise, it could rub and constrict your dog too much.
Design:
Your dog won’t care whether he’s wearing a stylish garment in a bright color or a simple sweater in beige, white, or black. For your furry friend, it’s only important not to be cold and to feel nice and cozy. Nevertheless, design is not entirely insignificant for you as a dog owner. You probably want clothing for your dog that matches your style and showcases your dog’s fashion sense.
Nevertheless, I advise against too many decorations. Sequins, fringes, feathers, or buttons could be chewed on and swallowed by your dog. Of course, dog shirts can have funny motifs or be in a color you like. In general, however, the motto regarding design is: Less is more!
Thickness:
The thickness of the clothing you dress your dog in depends on the outside temperature. A winter jacket, as the name suggests, is specifically designed for the cold season. It is thick enough to keep your furry friend’s body heat well preserved. Such heavily warming garments, however, should indeed be reserved for frosty winter days.
For cooler summer days or mild autumn and spring days, thinner garments made of cotton or polyester are suitable. Additionally, a raincoat should be available in different thicknesses in your dog’s wardrobe: a thin one for summer and a lined one for colder days.
Ease of Use:
Ideally, the garment for your dog should be easy to handle. This includes being comfortable to put on. Tight neck openings and missing fasteners make it difficult for you to dress your dog. Few dogs like it when a tight sweater is rolled over their head.
Jackets with zippers, snap fasteners, or Velcro closures are often the better choice. Clothing with snap buttons is also practical and relatively easy to put on. Simply read the reviews to find out what other buyers say about the ease of use of the garment – or try the clothing on your dog before purchasing.
Care:
Dog clothing items need to be cleaned regularly – and this should preferably be easy and hygienic. Therefore, make sure that the clothing for the dog can be washed without any problems. Ideally, the garments should be machine washable at a minimum of 30 degrees Celsius. The higher the possible washing temperature, the better, as dirt and parasites such as fleas or dust mites can then be effectively removed. Often, the clothing is also suitable for tumble drying, which is also a plus.
How to Introduce Your Dog to Dog Apparel
Simply putting on the sweater or dog coat and off you go? Unfortunately, this will hardly work with any dog. Especially older dogs who have never worn clothing before will find the feeling of a dog vest, dog jacket, or dog sweater unfamiliar at first. Many dogs also resist being dressed. In most cases, the dog must first get used to the new garment. Here’s how to do it:
1. Lay the garment on the floor in front of your dog.
2. Observe your dog. Is he interested in the clothing and sniffing it? Then reward him immediately with cuddles and a treat.
3. Once you notice that your dog is not afraid of the garment itself, you can simply place it on his back. If he accepts it, reward him again with treats and praise.
4. Now, try putting on the clothing, but leave any fasteners open. If your dog remains calm, you can reward him again.
5. The next step is to close the buttons, zipper, or Velcro fastener. Again, work with lots of praise. Make sure not to leave the garment on for too long initially; remove it after a short period of wearing.
6. Gradually increase the wearing time. Eventually, your dog will remain calm when he sees the garment and will no longer have any problems with putting it on or taking it off, or with wearing it in general.
It’s important to always proceed at your dog’s pace during this familiarization process. If he shows signs of discomfort or stress, stop for the day. Take a step back and try again the next day.
Conclusion: Dog clothing can be useful according to the test
Every dog owner wants their four-legged friend to be happy and healthy. Many dog lovers underestimate how much cold weather, rain, snow, and wind can affect their furry friend. Indeed, for many dog breeds, dog clothing is suitable for exactly this reason. Comfortable dog clothing helps your dog enjoy walks in the cold season more comfortably. It also increases your dog’s safety in twilight and darkness with reflective strips or bright colors. With few exceptions, dog clothing is recommended for all dog breeds in freezing weather today.
Whether shoes, raincoat, winter jacket, or bathrobe: The selection of dog clothing is truly enormous according to my test. There is suitable dog clothing for every size, breed, and purpose. The choice of clothing depends on various aspects. Comfort, fit, materials, and handling play an important role in the purchase decision. Of course, it’s clear that fashionable aspects should not be in the foreground. It’s more important that the clothing is functional and well accepted by your furry friend. I hope my comprehensive dog clothing test has helped you choose the best garments for your furry friend.
