WOOFing GOOD

WOOF-ing GOOD!

How to get your PAWS on the perfect pet-wear.

Finding pet-wear for your dog can be a challenge, especially with all of the choices available in an ever- growing market. Although many of these pieces are extremely eye-catching, the practicality and safety features of the item should be taken into account when making a decision about what to put on your pet.

Fabric and Function
The first thing that is an attention grabber when it comes to doggie jackets is the overall appearance of the piece. Finding an appropriate fabric to put on your pet is the first thing to consider. Is your pet sensitive to the elements? Do they have allergies to anything? If the materials used in his new digs irritate Rover’s skin, chances are they wont stay on for long, and if they do, you may be looking at vet bills to clear up his itchy skin. A good route to take when looking for pet-wear is to look for natural fabrics, such as cotton or wool, on the inside layer of the clothing. This will ensure ventilation and breath ability while still focusing on insulation. By having a natural fabric on the inside, virtually any fabric can be used as an outer shell, increasing the options for patterns and adornments. A water-repellant type of fabric is a good option, especially for a dog that doesn’t enjoy the rain. Ensuring the jackets main properties are practical makes it easier on the dog, and gives you plenty of ways to show the world the personality inside of the pooch!

Comfort and Fit

Comfort and fit are important to consider when picking out the perfect outfit. You want to make sure that the dog has enough room to move around comfortably without tripping, and that he has a proper opening for him to ‘relieve himself’ when need be. By properly measuring your pet beforehand, you will be able to find something that they will like to wear just as much as you like to see it on them.


Measuring Guide
Here is a quick guide to measuring your dog for a garment. (#1) Back length. Measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. (#2) Neck circumference. Measure around the base of the neck, where the collar sits. (#3) Chest circumference. Measure around the chest at its widest point. (#4) Chest front. Measure across the chest, shoulder to shoulder. (#5) Waist Circumference. Measure around the dog’s waist, just below the ribcage.
By having accurate measurements, you are much more likely to end up with a final product that fits your dogs needs, as dog shapes vary to an extreme degree.

Pet Safety
One thing people tend to overlook when playing ‘dress-up’ with their pets is safety. Dogs do not have the ability to undo latches and get themselves out of sticky situations, so before you purchase an item, consider a few things to ensure your dog will be able to avoid choking or another deadly situation. Start by looking at the openings of the garment. They need to be big enough for your dog to easily slip its head and paws through for a quick escape. The other thing to look at is the closure type. Is it a zipper? Dogs can’t undo them if you’re not around. The best way to go is a strong Velcro, or a fit that enables the dog to slip out of the jacket to avoid strangulation. Be cautious when purchasing your pets new clothes. It could mean life or death to your cherished pet.
Although there are tons of options and lots of things to consider, dressing up your dog can be fun as well as practical. Who doesn’t love to be warm and cozy in the middle of winter, or be able to stay dry while playing in the rain? Not only is pet-wear cute, but also it is a must for the Canadian climate. So get out there and GO FETCH!