We know how adorable your pup will look in a beautifully sewn costume. But before you can choose the right clothes for your dog, you need to keep certain things in mind. Nowadays, more and more people dress up their fur buddies for special events, such as Christmas or Halloween. Dog costumes are usually fun, and your family will love to see your pet dressed up. However, it’s essential to be careful when choosing a suit for your pooch. Remember that your dog must be comfortable and that it is not something too flashy. Your dog’s welfare must always come first. Do not forget the dangers of humanising your pet. It’s best to only give your puppy clothes with a function, such as sweaters in the winter. To choose the perfect suit for your best friend, you need to keep the following guidelines in mind.
Your Puppy’s Convenience Always Comes First
A suit may look great on your dog, but it will not work if it is uncomfortable. Even if your goal is to make your pup looks funny or cute, it’s important to consider their comfort. For this reason, never force your pooch to stay in a suit that annoys them. Also, remember that your puppy needs time to get used to the garment. Finally, as its owner, you need to know how to respect and encourage this adaptation to the suit.
Always Choose High-Quality Materials
When you search on the internet or in stores, you will find costumes of all styles, materials and prices. The better the quality of the garments, the more expensive they will be. But think of them as an investment. It is best to find a dog suit in durable materials and with hypoallergenic properties for the animal. It’s also important that you examine the seams and ends. Make sure that nothing will itch, irritate or harm the animal.
Learn the Dog’s Measurements So You Can Choose the Right Size
Yes, it may seem like an obvious tip, but it is important when choosing a suit for your dog. Before you buy the garment, make sure to measure the dog carefully and calmly. The perfect size will allow your dog to be comfortable and move freely. The suit will thus not interfere with their movements and should not be too tight, too long or too large.
Avoid Costumes With Small Decorations and Accessories
Many costumes have details, decorations or accessories in their design. When choosing an outfit for your dog, it is important to pay attention to buttons, stones and embellishments. You can buy a suit with these accessories as long as they sit securely on the garment – you do not want them to come off quickly. However, do not buy any costumes that contain details that your dog can swallow. On the other hand, large decorations can be heavy, making it difficult for the dog to move. If they are too bright or make a noise, the dog may even become frightened.
How To Help the Dog Adapt to the Costume?
As we said, the dog needs time to get used to the new suit – especially if they are not used to these garments. First, you need to understand that this process is slow and gradual. No animals adapt overnight because it takes time. Although we should always respect our dogs’ time and limitations, you can help their adaptation process. But remember never to force your pup to dress up or stay in the suit against their will. Before putting on their costume, you should let them smell and get used to it. Then you can try putting it on them and see how they react. If they are uncomfortable, you should take it off immediately and try another time. After they begin to feel comfortable in it, you can use positive reinforcement to encourage them to wear it. In addition to rewarding them with sweets, you can also take the time to play with them.
Caring for the Dogs When You Take Them Out With Their Costumes On
Be sure to perform the above steps in a controlled environment, such as at home. This will ensure the dog’s concentration. The second step in getting your furry buddy used to the suit is to let them wear it out on the street. Taking your dog out in their costume can result in some challenges, namely, people. Yes, many will see how cute your dog is in the suit and want to pet them, especially kids. These situations can be stressful or scary for your dog, so you should always be prepared for them. Finally, make sure your pup is adequately socialised and has learned to be around people and other animals. Of course, the best option is not to dress your dog unless necessary, such as when you have a short-haired breed that needs a sweater to not freeze in the winter. Remember, dogs are not toys or accessories and should not be treated as such.
