Dog clothes; why your dog doesn't like them and how to fix it.
Dogs and clothes
Dogs aren't born with clothes, just like people. But why is it widely accepted that people wear clothes while dogs usually don't? You would probably be uncomfortable, to say the least, if you didn't have clothes on. But dogs don't think like that. Is it just the fur that makes them different? Or is it something else?
Originally, dogs were pretty well equipped to live in their given environment. But at some point, people got involved. We've bred for dogs with a specific look, size, or other desired traits instead of traits that would help them thrive naturally.
That's why, although most dogs do have fur, that fur coat doesn't always help a dog adapt to their environment. Since we ask our dogs to live in places where their bodies can't keep them comfortable, they often need clothes of some sort to help.
Reasons why a dog might not like clothes
Maybe your dog doesn't need any help staying warm enough during the winter or cool enough in the summertime. But if they do need help, they probably need a coat, pajamas, or cool coat. Unfortunately, just because they need help, it doesn't mean they like the offered support.
There are lots of reasons why a dog might not like clothes. For example,
- your dog isn't used to wearing clothes.
- the coat or pajamas you have for your dog are the wrong size. If too small, they could feel restrictive. If too large, they could bunch up and interfere with movement.
- the sound that fabric makes as your dog moves in it could be irritating.
- the outfit isn't too tight or too loose, but it interferes with your dog's movements in some other way.
How to help your dog like clothes better
If your dog would benefit from clothes of some type, some things can be done to help them learn to like or at least tolerate wearing them when needed.
If your dog isn't used to wearing clothes, it could be as simple as teaching them that wearing them is ok; even good. Just letting them wear a coat or pajamas for short periods can help your dog learn to accept the outfit you want them to wear. If your dog is sensitive to the noise that a fabric makes, buying something made of other materials can help.
Making sure the item fits well is crucial if you want to gain your dog's cooperation. The outfit should not be snug anywhere. It also shouldn't be large enough that the fabric bunches up or gets in the way. Your dog should be able to walk, run, and lie down comfortably. If not, they are probably not going to learn to like what you want them to wear.
There are lots of options out there for finding clothes that fit. Not all dogs can wear the standard small, medium, and large sizes that are usually offered. If you can find items that your dog can wear comfortably, that's great.
If not, there are makers of custom dog clothes like Made by De. I make each of my products just for your dog, using your measurements and other specific information. Take a look at my website to 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 good for 20% off all orders.
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