Five tips for giving a present to a dog that isn't yours.

November 8, 2020|Dog coats, Dog situations

So, you want to give a dog a gift for Christmas or some other special occasion.  If that dog lives with you, you know what works for them.  Probably pretty well. Since they're handy, you can measure them. You know what they like to do, their favorite foods, and their favorite toys.  Most likely, you know what bothers them too.  These are the things that help you give a good gift.  

But if you want to give a gift to the dog of a friend or family member, it's probably a little more complicated.  You may not know them as well. Plus, getting measurements can get tricky, especially if you want to surprise their person too. Since you aren't around them all the time, you can't possibly know all the little details. So what do you do?

Ideas for dog gifts

There are some workarounds so that you can give a gift that will be loved by a dog and their parent. Here are some ideas.  

A gift that a dog can open

If you want a dog to open your gift, you could put something in it that smells good to them, maybe a tasty treat. Make it easy enough for them to open because the gift's opening is probably the main point here.  After that, it probably won't matter to them as much.

A gift for a favorite activity

If you know that the dog enjoys agility, frisbee, scent work, etc., you could give something that can be used in their sport.  

Someone who has a service dog always needs gear to help their dog perform at the highest level. A cool coat can help keep their dog from overheating.

A sentimental gift

Sentimental gifts are more for the dog parent than for the actual dog, but they can be a nice touch.  You could pair it with something that smells good so that the dog can open it, sort of a two-for-one thing. Dog oriented Christmas ornaments or stockings or a cherished photograph could work well.

Gift certificate

Although this one isn't personalized, it can allow you to get things that require knowing measurements or other specifics.  Most companies offer some kind of certificate so that you can prepurchase and let the receiver of the gift (in this case, the dog parent) get the best item for them. Dog coats are a great example here (ahem!) Go to Made by De for more about my gift certificates.

A dog cool coat can make a great gift for your dog or for someone else's dog.

Subscription service

Companies like Chewy or Bark Box have some really cool subscriptions that the dog parent can customize for their dog.  

Giving the perfect gift to a dog

I don't know about you, but my goal is to give a gift that the receiver will really be able to use, which shows some thought and appreciation.  I hope these tips can help you figure out what that looks like for the dogs on your gift list so that you can feel good about the situation. The holiday season can be stressful, so checking things off that to-do list can make you feel downright festive!

What are your go-to gift ideas for dogs when you don't know what to give?  Tell me in the comments below.

When you go to my website, don't forget to sign up for my insider group here. You'll save 20% on all your orders from Made by De!    

A fleece dog coat can serve lots of purposes, from lounging around on the couch to layering under other coats on really cold days.

 

 

Why should you choose a dog cool coat from Made by De?

March 20, 2021|Dog cool coats

Why does your dog need a dog cool coat from Made by De? Read on to find out more.

If you're looking for a dog cool coat, you already know why you need something like that for your dog.  Now you have to decide which cool coat to buy?. You don't want to waste your money.  You also want something that actually works for your dog.  How do you choose?

Made just for your dog

A Made by De dog cool coat is custom-made just for your dog using your measurements and input about what your dog needs in a cool coat.  You can find others, but how well will they fit your dog?  If the cool coat doesn't fit right, it's not likely to be very comfortable for your dog to wear.  

A coat that's custom made means that your dog will be able to move or lie down comfortably. The coat will be the right length and will not bind or be too loose so your dog doesn't have to work against it. When your dog isn't bothered by an incorrect fit, they can concentrate on being a dog.

Your dog can run, play, or work more easily in a cool coat that fits!

The most effective, comfortable fabric

What's that cool coat made of?

You can find cool coats made of terry cloth, high-tech space or reflective materials, or a variety of chamois fabrics. It's important to know what the product is made of because it affects the way a cool coat works, how it feels and how it holds up to use.  

Most cool coats use evaporation in one way or another since it's a proven method of cooling the air.  You can feel evaporative cooling by holding your hand close to something that's wet.  The air around it will be a few degrees cooler because of this natural process.

Terry cloth

-  Terry cloth cool coats are soft and easy to care for.  They cool using evaporation, which definitely provides cooling.  However, they get heavy when they're used because they have to be wet.  And they also drip, potentially making a wet mess if you're not careful.

-  Another version of the terry cloth coat uses little beads that are supposed to absorb cool water and extend the cooling time of the coat.  These beads usually shift and cause the coat to get lumpy in places.  And if your dog chews it, the beads can be toxic or cause intestinal blockage.  

High tech sources

-  Some companies have started using more space-age technology for their coats. These coats don't use evaporative cooling. Instead, each one has other methods for cooling off your dog.  The problem is that it's difficult to get a good fit if your dog doesn't fit the standard mold.  And with that technology comes a higher price tag.

-  Another approach is to use reflective fabric to deflect the sun's rays and therefore some of its heat.  Deflecting the heat is somewhat effective, but it is only a partial solution.  Plus, the feel of the fabric and the sound your dog hears when it's on can be unnerving for your dog.

Chamois (pronounced sham ee)

The original chamois is a sheepskin that's been tanned.  This type of chamois is soft, durable, and effective.  It has a downside, however,  When the fabric is wet, as is needed to use evaporative cooling, it's soft and pliable. When it's dry, however, it gets stiff and brittle.  This means you have to keep it damp in order to have it ready to use.  If you're not careful about refrigeration, the dampness will lead to mold, leaving your chamois useless.

Automotive shops have a version that's synthetic.  This fabric comes in beautiful colors and can be effective for cooling, it also gets brittle or stiff when dry. It also requires that you keep it damp to make it pliable enough to put on your dog.

Made by De uses a version of chamois that's made of 100% rayon fabric. I chose this fabric because it is washable, it doesn't get stiff when it's dry and it's durable.  It also stays damp without being heavy.  If you wring out the extra water, you can put it on your dog for hours of cooling while your dog stays dry underneath.  These qualities make for the best cool coat, in my opinion at least.  

If your dog needs a cool coat, you want to be sure you got the best one for the job. A Made by De dog cool coat is made to fit and cools for hours without getting your dog wet and messy.

Working with a small company

When you buy a Made by De dog cool coat, you work one on one with the maker of the coat.  You can personally discuss any concerns you have, make requests and ask any questions you need to so you can be sure you're going to get the product you and your dog need.  

Another benefit of working with a small company is their commitment to quality and customer service.  Should you have a problem, need a special order, or wonder how to get accurate measurements, you have someone to ask directly.  You do not have to flip a coin and hope.

Get a Made by De dog cool coat. 

You won't be sorry. Take a look at my website, www.madebyde.com, to see what I offer.  Message me from the site or email coatsmadebyde@gmail.com with any questions, concerns, etc.  I'll get right back to you.  And don't forget to sign up for your 20% discount. Just click the header and fill in your email to get your coupon code.

No matter the size of your dog, you can get a cool coat that fits properly and works well.

 

A dog cool coat isn't just a coat for cooling your dog

April 11, 2021|Dog cool coats

A Made by De dog cool coat isn't just for cooling your dog. It can do so much more!

A dog cool coat helps with cooling, of course.

Made by De creates dog clothing, all kinds of dog clothing.  One of my more popular products is the dog cool coat.  That's because these coats work really well for keeping your dog cool.

Since dogs are at risk of suffering from heatstroke or just feeling poorly due to overheating, keeping them cool is important.  A Made by De cool coats work for hours at a time, using evaporative cooling. You just soak the coat in water, wring out the extra, and put it on your dog.  

Cooling your dog is an important function, but that's not all these chamois (sham ee) coats can do.  When you're spending money on your dog, you want to get as much use out of it as possible, so it's nice to know that what you're buying can be used in many ways.  Here are some of them.

Since the synthetic chamois I use for these coats is absorbent, it's also good for drying your dog. You can put a dry or damp cool coat on your dog after a bath or swimming to help them dry off.

After a bath or swimming

Chamois, whether it's synthetic or natural (sheepskin), is known to be absorbent.  That means that the dog cool coat made of this fabric is also absorbent.  While it's used as a cool coat, the coat is soaked with water and allowed to dry so that the evaporative cooling can work.  This process can be used in another way.

If your dog is wet, they're probably dripping water everywhere.  By putting a dog cool coat on them, that drippy water is absorbed instead of falling wherever it may.  

If your dog is wet, they could also be cold. Putting a dry chamois coat on them wicks the water away from your dog so that they stay a bit warmer. Of course, as when you dry off with a towel, keeping that damp coat on your dog can allow them to get chilled, so the coat should come off before that happens.

A chamois coat like this one can help smooth unruly fur, especially important in the show ring.

Smoothing the fur

If you have a dog with longer fur, like this one, sometimes it's important to have that coat behave and lie down nicely.  This is especially important if you show your dog.  Conformation judges can appreciate your dog's qualities more if they're presented with an attractive grooming job.

If your dog is sensitive to the sun, or their coat fades with the sun, these cool coats help protect while they cool.

Sun protection

Some dogs are sensitive to the sun.  If your dog is light in color or has sensitivities aggravated by the sun, keeping them protected from it becomes important. The great thing about using a cool coat for this is that it can also be cooling your dog while it's blocking the sun.  

Light jacket

Finally, a chamois coat works as a light jacket when it's not damp.  If you find that your dog needs a jacket, you can put a dry chamois coat on them and help keep them warm.

A dog cool coat from Made by De can serve many different functions so you get more for your money.

A Made by De dog cool coat can do so much!

Take a look at Made by De dog cool coats. While you're on my site, don't forget to sign up for the Insider Group and get your coupon code for 20% off.

 

Is it worth buying clothing for your dog?

May 27, 2021|Dog coats

A custom dog coat is designed to fit the unique needs of your dog.

Does your dog need clothing?

It's true that not all dogs need clothing.  Whether your dog needs clothing depends on what type of dog you have, where you live, and what you do with your dog. Each dog parent has to make the decision about dog clothing for themselves.

If you have a Newfoundland and live in Canada, your dog is suited for the cold weather and probably doesn't need a winter coat.  But they might need a cool coat.

If you have a whippet and live in Florida, they might need a cool coat, but probably not a winter coat.  However, if you move that same whippet to Minnesota, they will need a warm coat since their smooth coat isn't adapted to the climate.

To answer the question of whether dog clothing is needed, you should consider:

-   Size of your dog

-   Characteristics of your dog

-   The climate you live in

-   The activities you intend to do with your dog

A custom dog coat is made just for your dog, so it will fit just right.

Does your dog need custom dog clothes?

If you've decided that your dog needs clothing for specific reasons, the next question is where to get it.  Can you find what you're looking for at a store or online?  Is that product made to fit your dog well?  Does it meet all the needs you and your dog have for a coat?  

Maybe you can find something that's already made that you're happy with.  But the chances of finding something that fits just right and does what you need it to do are small.  Now, it's time to take a look at custom options.

Custom dog products are usually made to last.

Why buy custom dog clothes?

Have you considered buying custom stuff for your dog?  Maybe the word "custom" makes you think "expensive."  An item that's made just for your dog might be more expensive than something you buy from PetSmart.  Until you think about it a little bit.

Your initial investment into a dog coat might be higher with custom than readymade.  But if your dog doesn't like it, you might have to buy another coat.  In addition, a coat that's made custom is often made to hold up better.  Being made individually means that those little flaws which cause a product to break down aren't there.  So your coat lasts longer.

Take a look at Made by De

Made by De creates each item just for your dog using your measurements.  Take a look at www.madebyde.com to see what's available.  And while you're there, don't forget to sign up for the Made by De Insider Group to get your 20% off coupon, good for all orders.

 

Can a dog coat help your dog with anxiety?

May 31, 2021|Dog coats, Dog situations

A dog slinkie can do double duty. If applied snugly, it can also help with anxiety.

Do you have a dog with anxiety?

Does your dog have anxiety?  Maybe it's just at certain times. How do you know? 

Here are some things you might see that indicate that your dog has a problem.

      -  pacing

      -  drooling excessively

      -  eyes unnaturally wide

      -  trying to hide

      -  tucking the tail

      -  trembling

These are some of the most common symptoms, but each dog is different.  Paying attention to what your dog does and how they act in certain situations will help you be prepared for when they have troubles.  Read this post about helping your anxious dog for more info.

Any dog coat that fastens around the ribcage snugly can help your dog with their anxiety.

Ways to help your anxious dog

If you have an anxious dog, you'll want to know what to do to help them cope better.  You may have heard about anti-anxiety medications from your vet.  CBD products can also be helpful.  In addition, there are strategies you can use that can help your dog deal with their stressful situation.  

But there is another method that might be worth trying.  Would you believe that a dog coat can sometimes help? Here's how.

A dog coat can work like swaddling for a baby to ease anxiety for your dog.

How a dog coat can work to help your dog with anxiety

Have you heard about the "thunder shirt?" The idea behind the thunder shirt is that when pressure is applied to certain areas of your dog's body, it has a relaxing, soothing effect.  It's much the same as when you swaddle a newborn baby.  

A dog coat can provide the same type of effect if it's applied snugly.  When you and your dog find yourself in an anxiety-producing situation, you can put a cool coat or a slinkie or even a winter coat on and fasten it securely around the ribcage.  

This is something that you can try instead of or in addition to medications or distractions.  The effect is quick to start but doesn't generally last more than 30 minutes to an hour.  Your dog might get enough relief to get them through while one of the other methods is starting to work.  

Made by De can help

One of the nice things about using a dog coat is that you can have it available for its intended use and also use it to help relieve anxiety; double duty! Read this post for more ways to use a dog coat. 

Take a look at my website to get a cool coat, slinkie, or other product for your dog.  Don't forget to sign up for the Insider Group so you can get your 20% off coupon code, good for all purchases.

 

Why use a dog cool coat? 10 things you can do better

June 6, 2021|Dog cool coats

A dog cool coat can help your dog have more fun this summer.

Of course, your dog can do lots of things.  And the two of you can have all kinds of fun this summer.  But what if your dog could have more fun and not suffer because of the heat?  Your dog might not feel like doing anything when they're hot.  And heatstroke can be a real possibility. Read this post for more info about this dangerous condition. 

You can beat the heat, however.  A dog cool coat is one tool that can help. Here are some ideas for times to use that cool coat to HAVE MORE FUN!

Hiking 

A dog cool coat moves with your dog so that they can stay cool from start to finish on that hike in nature or around the neighborhood

Biking

If you take your dog biking, they can get overheated pretty quickly.  A dog cool coat can help them stay comfortable so that they can get that exercise.

Agility and other sports

If you and your dog compete at something, you know that focus is important.  If your dog is cool and energetic, they can focus and compete at much higher levels.

A working dog needs to stay cool so that they can work better.

Working

A working dog also needs to focus.  Whether it's as a service dog, search and rescue dog, or any other type of physical work, staying cool will help them work better.  And the right dog cool coat can work with any gear needed.

Car rides

Your car might have A/C, but that car ride can still cause overheating when it takes a few minutes for the cooling to start.  And if you don't have A/C, the rolled-down windows can only help so much.

Playing

It doesn't take very long for your dog to quit playing ball or frisbee when they feel like a limp noodle.  On super hot days, they may not want to play at all.  A dog cool coat can help them feel energized so you can have some fun time and they can get some exercise.

Showing

If you and your dog attend conformation shows, you know that lots of times those show rings are outside, where it's hot.  And it can be hard for your dog to look energetic and healthy when they're dragging from the heat.  A dog cool coat can help keep them feeling good, as well as look good when used as a grooming coat.

Camping

Camping can be another time when your dog suffers from the heat.  Chances are that A/C isn't available unless you have a nice RV.  But even then, if you want to hang out and actually enjoy nature, it can get pretty hot.  Keeping your dog cool can help them enjoy themselves.

A dog cool coat made just for your dog! Stay cool and have more fun!

Hanging out

Even at home, your dog might be suffering from the heat.  Sure, some people have perfectly temperature-controlled houses.  But many don't.  Some dog coats, like the ones from Made by De, can be worn inside the house without making everything wet.

Enjoying the summer

It's a fact! Summer gets hot and dogs don't always do well in the heat.  Keeping them cool and comfortable can help you both enjoy the season and get the most out of it.  A dog cool coat has lots of uses.  Read this post for more info.

Take a look at my website to see the options available.  Don't forget to sign up for the Insider Group to get your coupon code.  You'll get 20% off of every order when you use the code.

 

A dog coat that's made just for YOUR dog!

June 20, 2021|Dog coats

If your dog needs clothing like cool coats, rain coats or winter coats, they'll enjoy them more if they fit.

What is custom when it comes to a dog coat?

Do you know what custom means? When it comes to clothing, it means something that's made with the measurements and specifications of the intended wearer.  A custom item is designed to fit comfortably and well, allowing easy movement.  When dogs need clothing, they are much happier if it fits comfortably and doesn't interfere with being a dog.  Here is a post about why your dog might need clothing.

You can find ready made clothing for dogs.  Even though there are several sizes available, it can be hard to find something ready-made that  fits. Dogs come in so many sizes, from four pound chihuahuas to 250+ pound Mastiffs, and everything in between.  Stores simply can't have every possible size on hand. 

That's where custom dog clothing becomes a good idea.  If something is made specifically for your dog, chances are that the item will fit your dog like a glove.  It shouldn't bind, pinch, or otherwise be uncomfortable. 

Custom dog clothing works for your dog while letting them BE a dog.

How to get the most out of your custom dog coat

When you are having something made for your dog, here are some important tips for getting the most out of the experience;

-    Accurate measurements.  If you are working with someone  in person, they will usually take this responsibility.  If not, it becomes really important for you to do it correctly.  Be sure to ask any and all questions so that you can provide the maker with all the information they need. 

-   Know what you and your dog want in a product.  If you need something waterproof, or a specific color, etc., it's important to pass that on to the maker.  

-   Consider the intended function of the product.  Is it going to be used when camping, when lounging around the house or at a dog event? Sharing this information with the maker can help them put together the best combination of fabrics and features so that you and your dog will want to use it.

-  Communicate with the maker frequently.  Let them know any important dates, changes in need, etc.

If your dog needs clothing, they'll be much more comfortable if it fits!

What to expect from a custom dog coat from Made by De

Made by De was started to fill the need of fitting any dog with the clothing they need. I learned much about fitting a dog by going to dog shows, agility events and other dog-related functions.  I talked to the people who worked with the dogs to find out what they needed.  

While there is always more to learn, I've built a large knowledge base to help get the best fit possible. This being said, I do not know every dog and their specific needs.  In order to get the best custom dog clothing, it's important to have a good working relationship between you, the client, and me, the maker.

I encourage my clients to tell me what they have in mind for their specific item. Ask me questions.  Tell me anything you think might help me get a better picture. Then I do my best to make a product that meets those qualifications.

My goal is to provide a product that is so comfortable and well-made that your dog will love to wear it for years to come.  Take a look at my website, www.madebyde.com, and see what I have to offer.  And while you're there, don't forget to sign up for the Insider Group.  You'll get a coupon code for 20% off all orders. For more information about custom dog clothes, you can also read this post.

 

How long will that dog coat last?

June 27, 2021|Dog coats

A dog coat can work for you and your dog for years if it's made right.

How long should a dog coat last? It depends.

If you're like most dog owners, you are hoping to get your money's worth when you buy something for your dog. How often is that really the case, however? Many times, it's probably not as long as you'd hoped.  Here are some things to consider that can affect the useful life of your dog's coat.

What it's made with

Dog coats are made of various types of fabric, Some of them are more tightly woven or made of more durable substances than others.  They come in different colors, different weights, or different textures.  A fabric may or may not be waterproof.  It also might have fancy detailing, like sequins or beads, that require special handling.  What your dog coat is made of matters.

If a dog coat is made of durable fabrics with some substance, the coat is more likely to hold up to an active dog and years of use.  A coat purchased for a puppy or a toy breed isn't going to get the wear and tear of an item purchased for a bigger dog that goes on hikes or plays hard.  Knowing what to expect of your dog and their activity level can help you choose a coat that will last.

Extra durable fabrics can help you get a longer life for that dog coat.

How well it's made

Another factor to consider is how well the dog coat is constructed.  Generally, you can feel the difference between something that has been mass-produced in the quickest way possible and something that's solidly constructed with reinforcement as needed.  Again, if you have an active dog and you want the dog coat to last, paying attention to the stitching can help you pick an item that will last for a while. 

What your dog does while wearing it 

Knowing how your dog is going to use that new coat can make a big difference.  A dog that goes with you on hikes or wears it while playing ball or with other dogs is going to put that coat to the test.  

The more your dog tests the coat, the more sturdy it will need to be.  Taking some time to examine a product, reading product descriptions, and looking at reviews from previous customers will help you decide before you buy. Companies that strive to create products that last generally stand behind their products.  They also usually have customers singing their praises.  

No matter what type of dog coat you get, if it's made well, it should last for years of use.

How long should a dog coat last?

Unfortunately, there is no exact time frame. However, if you do your homework and make sure that the coat you buy is up to the workout your dog will give it, you can reasonably expect it to last quite a while. If you keep the coat in good repair, relatively clean, and stored properly, your investment should be good for years.

Made by De creates dog coats with these standards in mind.  Take a look at my website, the guarantee, and the rave reviews from previous satisfied customers.  And while you're there don't forget to sign up for the Insider's Group.  You'll get a code for 20% off all purchases.