Doggy Fashion - yes or no?
The weather outside is frightful and many concerned doggy parents want to dress their furbabies against the cold and wet. When I moved down from Squamish, the Outdoor Capital of the World, where there were 10,000 registered dogs, and all of them muddy, dirty, and joyful mutts smelling of dead salmon and skunk cabbage, I was surprised to see so many city dogs wearing clothes. But after a few years, I have to admit, I started to feel like a bad parent because my little doggy went outside onto the city sidewalks stark naked.
But I had heard somewhere that dressing your dog was unkind and even cruel and that humans needed to stop imposing such domestication on their canine companions. “But she’s cold,” my friends would say. “And her feet get wet. We don’t go out in bare feet, why should my dog?”
OK Ok So I asked the robot, “Tell me about dressing dogs in human clothes,.” And this is its reply.
Dressing dogs in human clothes is a topic that elicits varied opinions, especially regarding animal welfare and communication. Here are some key points to consider:
THE CONS: Why you should not dress your dog.
Thermal Regulation:
Dogs regulate their body temperature differently than humans. Their fur is naturally designed to protect them from various weather conditions. Putting clothes on dogs might hinder their ability to regulate their body temperature. For instance, a thick coat could cause overheating in some situations, while in others, certain types of clothing might not provide adequate warmth.
Fur Health:
Clothing can potentially flatten a dog's fur, leading to matting or skin issues in some breeds. This is particularly true if the clothing is tight-fitting or left on for extended periods.
Movement and Comfort:
Dogs communicate and express a lot through body language. Clothing that restricts their movement can also restrict their ability to communicate. For example, if a dog is unable to raise its hackles (the hair along the spine), other dogs might misinterpret its body language.
Behavioral Impact:
Some dogs may feel uncomfortable or stressed in clothing, especially if they are not used to it. This can lead to behavioral changes, such as increased anxiety or aggression.
THE PROS: Why you might want to dress your dog
Practical Uses:
In certain scenarios, clothing for dogs can be beneficial. For example, sweaters or coats can provide necessary warmth for short-haired breeds in cold climates. Similarly, protective boots can help on rough terrain or in extreme temperatures (hot tar or snow and ice).
A neighbour explained to me that his dog’s raincoat kept the mud out of his apartment - he could just take the muddy garment off his dog before entering.
Allergies and Medical Conditions:
In some cases, vets may recommend clothing for dogs with certain allergies or skin conditions to protect against irritants. Although including allergy supplements (like these) would be a much better option to keep seasonal allergies at bay.
Tips: If you really want to dress your dog
Size and Fit:
If choosing to dress a dog, it's crucial to ensure that the clothing fits properly. It shouldn't be too tight or too loose, and the dog should be able to move freely without any discomfort.
Acclimation and Observation:
Introducing a dog to clothing should be a gradual process, allowing them to acclimate. It's also important to observe their reaction and behavior while wearing clothes to ensure they are comfortable.
Individual Assessment:
Veterinarians usually advise that decisions about clothing should be based on each individual dog's needs, considering factors like breed, age, health status, and local climate.
The Final Answer
As with all decisions when it comes to our family, it’s ultimately up to you whether or not you dress your dog. For me, the behavioural impact is a big factor. I find having a dog in the city can already lead to anxiety and aggression. There’s just not enough off-leash-running-like-crazy-in-a-pack time for doggies! If wearing clothes is going to make my dog anxious, and impair her ability to communicate with other dogs, I’m not going to insist.
But my dog is part spaniel and part poodle. She has a good fur coat. Maybe I’d think differently if I had a short haired doggy.
The best advice? Check with your vet. They will be able to assess your pooch’s individual needs.
Hope this helps!