Dog and Puppy Clothes & Apparel Self-Made Homemade DIY Dog Dress & Clothes Dog Dresses, Costumes and Clothes Patterns Sizes, Calipers, Variety of Dog Clothes Dog & Puppy Pajama Sewing Patters Get your dog used to wear Dog Travel Clothing Dog Halloween Costumes How to Clean \ Wash Dog Apparel Dog Clothes History Dog Apparel Variety Extreme Dog Costumes
DOG CLOTHES HISTORY This article is proudly presented by
Have you ever wondered how dog clothes became a part of today's culture? The history of dog clothing is very interesting and it may not be what you expected. Clothing designed for your dog was not always the iconic image of fashion with a hint of sensibility mixed in that's sold today. In fact, they went through many stages before becoming the stylish and fun outfits you see pets everywhere wearing.
The military was actually the first to use dog clothes. They were designed to protect military dogs in the same way that armour and uniforms helped to protect the soldiers fighting next to them. They were created with this specific function in mind, not for fashion. These brave and dedicated dogs needed protection from the changing weather and sometimes, even attacks. These uniforms did their jobs and helped keep these amazing canines safer.
Police, firefighters and other organisations that we commonly look to for keeping the public safe, were the next group to use dog clothing. These uniforms were used partly for protection but they also distinguished one group from the other. For example, you can recognise a police dog in a crowd and tell which department he works for by its uniform. Seeing Eye dogs and other helper dogs were next in line to receive clothing. Their uniforms make it easy for the people to know the owner has some type of disability.
For years, dog clothes were used to symbolise some type of special training, then it began to expand and clothing for family pets started to appear. At first, pet owners dressed their dogs in Christmas and Halloween outfits just for kicks. Before long, celebrities began dressing their pets in fancy outfits. These were mainly just for show.
Over time, dog clothes became more acceptable for the average pet and many practical designs were introduced to consumers. These include T-shirts, jerseys, tanks, sweaters and winter outfits such as hooded jackets with fur, raincoats and boots for wet and cold climates.
Today, buying clothing for your dog is as common as buying it for yourself. They still serve a practical purpose by keeping your pet warm and dry. In addition, they help protect your pet from cuts and scrapes they can encounter when playing. However, style is right up there at the top of the list when it comes to doggie clothing. You can even buy outfits for weddings, birthdays, sports and many other special occasions.
Military and other working dogs still wear their uniforms although; they have changed somewhat over the years to become more stylish and more durable. For example, police and military dogs have bulletproof vest now that can protect their vital organs from bullets when out in the field.
Dog clothing has been around much longer than many people realise. Just as humans need warmth and protection, so do our animals. They also look great wearing these outfits around no matter what size dog you have. Since dog owners want the best for their furry little friends, dog clothes are becoming more and more popular every year.
A D V E R T I S E M E N T
A VARIETY OF DOG CLOTHES This article is proudly presented by
If you love to pamper and dress up your pretty puppy, you need look no further than our fancy dog dresses. These stylish dog dresses are sure to fill your every desire when it comes to making your small dog look fabulous. Dogs love the attention and bonding dress up time brings, and having a wide selection of fun dog dresses to choose from is a great way to spice up your dog's life and bring a bit of amusement and excitement into your own. With an adorable dog dress, you can turn your pampered pooch into the beautiful little princess that she is truly meant to be.
Dresses for dogs come in just as many styles as regular dress, ranging from cute and quirky to chic and formal. You can even dress your pup in her own wedding gown if you'd like. Weather you are simply taking your pup on a walk about town, or bringing her as your guest to an event, you can be sure that she will look her best in a fancy dog dress.
A small dog dress or large dog dress can also be a great way for you to celebrate special holidays and occasions with your dog. There are costume dog dresses that are great for Halloween. Your dog can dress up as an adorable pint size ballerina, fairy princess, or cheerleader. The two of you would certainly make an adorable pair in coordinated outfits at any gathering.
If you are attending or hosting a Christmas party, your pup can be the main attraction in her very own Santa-themed red stylish dog dress. There are puppy dresses available to provide solutions for any occasion. If you cannot initially find what you need, the dress you are looking for can be customized to fit your desires.
Dog dresses are fun for dogs and pet owners alike. The pet owner gets the chance to pamper their pet and dress the pooch up as if they have their own living doll. The dog gets the love and attention it needs as well as a comfortable and warm outfit. There are winter dog dresses that not only provide an adorable outfit for your dog, but also provide much needed warmth and comfort.
Are you unable to find the right clothes for your dogs? It's time to get rid of your routine shopping process that might be tedious and time consuming. In the earlier days, there were very limited number of clothes for dogs, but now there are thousands of dog clothes that are modern, comfortable, elegant, unique and most importantly affordable. There are nearly 78.2 million dogs in the U.S according to APPA's 2011-2012 National Pet Owners Survey. This statistics is increasing day-by-day as more and more people are starting to love dogs.
Increasing demand for dog beds and puppy clothes has ultimately increased the production of costumes for dogs considerably in the present days. To satisfy the expectation of the pet owners, manufacturers are incorporating trendy design and comfort features. Trendy dog clothes not just offers comfort but enhances the outlook for your dog. Hence, it's important to choose the best clothes carefully.
If you want to grab the best clothes for your dogs in time then you need to know more about the different types of dog clothes that are modern, unique, comfortable and affordable.
Dog Costumes A special kind of dog clothing that serves the same perpous as costumes for people, to dress your dog up as something else. Dog costumes come in all concievable designs from bees, to lobsters, to even superheros, and of cource the classic dinosaur!
Specialty Dog Clothing encompasses the different varieties of dog clothing that serve a specific purpose. An example of specialty dog clothing is the orange dog vest used in hunting. Another type is the dog rain poncho, which is used to keep your dog nice and dry during outdoor excursions in the rain.
Thermal Dog Clothing can encompase a wide variety of dog clothes. A lot of small dog clothing is thermal, because small dogs in very cold areas or durring winter have trouble retaining body heat, and the thermal clothing keeps them happy and warm.
Big Dog Clothing deserves a special mention because of it's current niche status. Because many pet owners consider doggy dressup a small dog's game, many dog clothing manufacturers have skipped over designing clothes for larger breeds. However due to the rising popularity of thermal and utility types of dog clothing, many more varieties of big dog clothing are available.
Sweaters Are you looking for a perfect solution to secure your dog during winter season? Look for sweaters that are designed to perfectly match and secure your dog against extreme climatic conditions. Usually, during winter dogs are more susceptible to a wide range of health issues, hence it is important to secure your dog. Besides, dogs are found to be inactive and less energetic during winter due to extreme cold. During such conditions, sweaters can create warm and comfort for your dogs. Another interesting fact about is that sweaters are available in different outlook and size. So, remember sweaters not just secure your dog but enhances its outlook glow too.
Warm Coats Like sweaters, coats are one of the best ways to keep away the chill while accompanying your dog for an early morning walk. Dog coats are available in different unique outlook, so choose the best one to impress everyone with your dog's latest clothing.
Raincoats Are available for dogs as well. Many dogs, especially small dogs, are kept inside except for walks and bathroom breaks. When it rains outside, the dogs can become wet and dirty, and if they have long hair, they become matted. Raincoats do not completely prevent the dog from getting wet, but they do provide protection for most of its body.
Sports Clothing For sports enthusiasts, try putting on some sports clothing for your dog. That way, you can match the personality of your dog to yours. But be sure that the clothing matches the personality of the dog as well. Otherwise, your pet may just look comical instead of sporty. Different breeds certainly have different personality traits. More active dogs (like the forever active Jack Russell) are likely to look nice in a piece of sports clothing. They come in mostly black and white colors, with a number print on the back.
Dog Swimsuits Want to take your dog for a swim? Swimsuits are ready to secure your dogs during swimming. Now, you can start swimming with your dogs without worrying about its health or comfort.
Dog Pajamas You can use these dog clothes to prevent mats at night by keeping the hair contained.
Dog Hats To cover and protect their lovely heads from sun and snow
Boots For canine paws protection
Puppy Clothes Nowadays, you can find amazing puppy clothes that are unique, comfortable and elegant at an affordable price.
These are some popular dog clothes that are preferred by a large number of pet owners. However, remember to use the size chart to find the correct size since different manufacturers have different designer sizes. What ever type of dog clothing you choose, make sure it's the proper size for your dog. Also, consider how furry or, shall we say, robust your dog is, as this will determine how warm it's clothes can be.
Remember your dog's new clothing doesn't just have to be for you, it can make your dog happy as well!
HOW TO GET YOUR DOG USED TO WEAR CLOTHES This article is proudly presented by
Please remember, wearing clothing is not a natural experience for them. Some pets slip into clothes quite easily,others may need a little training, lots of cuddles and/or some reassurance to get used to their new clothes. Patience is the key. If your pet tries to take their clothing off themselves, stop the behaviour and take the clothes off yourself.
This will eliminate some dogs from chewing and ruining the clothes. They do get used to wearing clothing over time. Every dog is different. Our dogs all wore clothes from when they were puppies, so they know they when 'Mum' goes into their wardrobe they are either A. going out, B. people coming over, or C. they have some new products to test out! They both get very excited and it is a positive experience for them. Some of our other "older" doggy friends who have just started wearing clothes were a little suspicious of their clothes at first but they have had no problems and they now love wearing their clothes.
Puppies will out grow their clothes, so please take this into consideration when purchasing. Small dogs are generally fully grown between the age of 7-8 months, medium to large breeds take a little longer, approximately 1-2 years. Please check with your vet for exact times regarding your breed.
So, How to get your dog used to wearing clothes? Make sure the outfit is the right size and fits well as it may annoy your pooch and or obstruct his/her movement or vision.
Put clothes on your dog right before you take them out for walkies or to do their business.
You need to act like nothing is unusual. If you make a fuss, then so will they!
Make sure your dog doesn't overheat. Observe their breathing pattern, if they are breathing 100 or more breaths per minute they are over heating.
Keep walks with clothing short until your dog is used to the clothes. This will help prevent them from overheating.
Do not let your doggy remove his/her own clothing. Make sure you are doing that for them!
When packing for a trip, you always pick your cutest outfits, right? Why should packing for your pup be any different? Not only do dog clothes serve practical purposes, like keeping your pooch warm and dry, but they also attract a lot of attention for your furry friend. Dogs are social creatures by nature, and an adorable outfit encourages perfect strangers to pay lots of attention to your well-appointed pooch, which is highly likely to get that tail wagging. Not all dogs are good candidates for clothing, but that doesn't mean you still can't style up your pup. There are tons of cute collars on the market. You can also choose jewelry that attaches to their collars, complete with gemstones and pearls. If you want to turn your pooch into a princess for the night, get her some bejeweled headgear, like barrettes or even a tiara. We all know there's nothing like a little doggy bling to start the conversation. Whatever your style, here are some tips for packing for your four-legged fashionista that won't push you over that pesky 50-pound bag limit.
Choosing the right seasonal clothing is important for your pooch's comfort as well as her health. While canine couture is all the rage, most dogs are naturally equipped to handle the elements, so adding too much gear over their already protective coats can sometimes do more harm than good. If you are heading to cooler temperatures and you have a breed with super short hair or one who tends to get the shivers, then a parka or sweater is a good item to pack. Choose ones with reflective strips for nighttime walks. And don't forget boots, which can be good for snowy adventures. They not only protect delicate little feet from getting too cold, but they also keep off the salt and de-icing chemicals found on the sidewalks. Plus, all of this makes indoor cleanup a lot easier. Just remember that heavy coats can be dangerous for dogs if they are getting too much exercise on their walk, so dress them according to the temperature and keep an eye on your pup's energy level. Rainy climates command a waterproof slicker, but your best bet for keeping your pup fashionably cool in hot climates is a cooling bandana.
If you pack for your pooch like you do for yourself, you will want to make sure you have options for any occasion. Attending the film festival at Cannes? Then you must pick up some fashions for your pup inspired by the frocks worn by recent Academy Award winners. We particularly like the Reese. Pretty much anything from the Paris Hilton dog clothing collection will ensure that your pup is ready to go out on the town. Choose from flirty sundresses or heavy-duty denim. On your way to the Kentucky Derby? Then a hat is a must. Skiing in Aspen commands a cable knit sweater so your pooch can stylishly kick back in the lodge while you are out on the slopes. If you find yourself Scotland bound, then anything with a tartan plaid is appropriate garb. And if New York during the holidays is your destination of choice, make sure you pack a stylish coat and hat. Preferably a boucle, for a touch of Jackie O. And if you are just not sure what your trip will hold, a tie with an elastic neckband is the perfect accessory to pop in your suitcase. Consider it the boy dog equivalent of the little black dress.
DOG APPAREL SIZING GUIDE BY BREED This article is proudly presented by
APPROXIMATE COAT SIZE BY BREED (from base of neck to base of tail)
FREE DOG DRESS PATTERN (Make a dog clothes by yourself!) This article is proudly presented by
This free dog dress pattern was originally designed for a Chihuahua, but can be modified to fit larger breeds. See Jenny Kitchens' Etsy store for her dog dresses at her website listed below.
Materials and Tools: DOWNLOAD DOG DRESS SKIRT PATTERN DOWNLOAD DOG DRESS BODY PATTERN Soft measuring tape 1/2-yard soft cotton patterned fabric (amount of fabric will vary depending on dog's size) 1/2-yard lightweight standard interfacing 4" to 5" strip of 1" wide white sewable Velcro Decorative buttons, Bows or Appliques Thread Fabric shears Pins
Steps:
1. Resize the pattern. This part may be difficult if your dog is not extra small, but there are some ways around it. The dress pattern was originally designed to fit a Chihuahua with a 14-1/2" chest. If you print the current pattern at full size, 100 percent, it will fit a dog with a 12-14 inch chest. Note: For a dog much larger than this, the skirt pattern piece won't fit on a standard 8-1/2" x 11" page. For a dog with a chest larger than 12 inches neither piece will fit on a page.
Options: Take the printed pattern to a print shop and ask them to resize it on larger paper OR Download the images to your computer and open them in a graphics or photo editor. Resize the patterns to the proper size. Increase the size of each pattern piece accordingly.
2. Cut two fabric pieces on the fold for the skirt pattern. Cut two fabric pieces on the fold for the bodice pattern. Bodice pieces should be two inches larger than the dog's chest.
3. Place the two bodice pieces right sides together with interfacing on the bottom. Sew along the lines indicated using a 1/2" seam. Note: Do not sew the bottom edge where no lines are present. Leave it open so that you can turn the bodice right side out to attach the skirt.
4. Once the bodice is sewn together, clip each corner where the neck and the waist meet to ensure that the seam will lay flat once it is top-stitched.
5. Turn the bodice right side out, making sure that the corners are square (a dull pointed object such as a chopstick can be used).
6. Place the two skirt pieces right-sides-together and sew along the lines indicated. Do not sew the top edge where no lines are present; this is the gather line.
7. The skirt has a hemline and a gather line. Hem the skirt first along the dotted line using a 1/2-inch seam.
8. Using scissors, clip along the bottom edge of the skirt every 1/2-inch before turning it right side out.
9. Next, sew the gather line, but do not gather the last inch on both sides. Gather it just enough so that it fits into the bodice.
10. Attach the bodice to the skirt. To hide the seams on the inside of the dress, pin your gathered skirt between the two layers and sew in place.
11. Embellish with buttons, bows or appliques. Tip: It is recommended that you topstitch the dress once it's completed for a more finished look
12. Attach two 2-1/2" pieces of Velcro by sewing them onto the neck and waist pieces of the bodice
Dog pajamas are fun to make and provide a dog with extra warmth during cold weather. In materials ranging from cozy thermal knits to plush fleece, PJs can be tailored to your pooch's preferences and even adorned with decorative appliques or embroidery. Put your dog's comfort first and have fun with the style, playing with bright colors or dreamy prints.
Measure the pet for whom you will create an outfit. Get the width and length of the body of the dog. Not all dogs feel comfortable wearing clothing on their back legs, so consider whether you are making a jumpsuit style piece or a versatile nightshirt without any restriction of the legs. If the outfit will cover the legs of the dog, measure the width and length of the dog's legs. You may also purchase a sewing pattern for pet clothes at a craft or sewing store.
Go to a craft or sewing store to find fabric. Pick a soft fabric that will be comfortable against your dog's skin. Purchase fabric based on a pattern size or the measurements of your pet. Get a bit of extra fabric to ensure you will have enough material even if sewing mistakes occur. Also, purchase thread that matches the color of the fabric.
Organize all items needed near the sewing machine so your project goes smoothly. Test the sewing machine on a scrap of fabric to ensure it is working properly.
Cut out the fabric for the dog pajamas with a pattern or according to the measurements of your pet. Then, turn the fabric inside out and pin the two main pieces for the body of the outfit together with straight pins. Sew the body of the outfit together; when done sewing, carefully remove all of the straight pins.
Sew the legs of the pajamas if they will be used with the outfit. First, turn the fabric inside out and hold the seam shut with straight pins. Then, sew the seam for the leg and remove all of the straight pins. Attach the leg to the body of the outfit with sewing snaps. Continue on until you have sewn all four legs for the outfit. Attach all of the legs to the outfit with snaps. Iron the pajamas to eliminate wrinkles and to soften the fabric.
DOG PAJAMAS SEWING GUIDE Dressing your dog may seem unnecessary, but some dogs actually benefit from warm items such as pajamas. Small, short-haired breeds and elderly, sick dogs often need pajamas in the winter time to ward off the chills. Making dog pajamas from old baby clothes is a simple, cost-effective way to keep your canine companion warm and dry.
Determine what size baby clothes will fit your dog. Small breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Yorkshire terriers, should fit into 0-3 month clothes. Larger dogs, including Italian greyhounds and whippets will need larger outfits. If you are unsure of what size to buy, measure around your dog's neck, from her neck to the base of her tail, and around her chest and then compare these measurements to the baby pajamas for a proper fit.
Slip the pajamas over the dog, with the zipper or buttons running along the dog's belly. Slide her feet through the arm and leg holes, and fasten the pajamas. Draw a small "X" over her tail, and remove the pajamas.
Cut a small circle around the "X" with a pair of sharp scissors. The hole should be just big enough to pull the dog's tail through, so start with a small hole and enlarge it slowly if necessary.
Snip off the feet of the pajamas. This allows your dog's feet to come in contact with the ground, providing a more secure walking surface. If the sleeves have hand guards on them, cut them off to prevent your dog from snagging a toenail as she walks.
Put the pajamas back on the dog to check for proper fit. Slide the tail gently through the hole and place each foot through the proper opening. Button the pajamas up and reward the dog with a treat for being so patient. If your dog fights or tries to tear off the garment, pet and praise her when she ignores the pajamas. It will take time, but eventually she will forget she's even wearing them. Wash your dog's pajamas frequently to ward off excess odors. Use a gentle or pet-safe detergent to prevent skin irritation.
Items you will need
Long-sleeved baby pajamas Marker Scissors Dog treats :)
All materials on DOGICA® pages respectfully belong to its legal rights owners
All images on DOGICA® pages used only as illustrations. Find the author of any image with TINEYE
3rd Party cookies could be collected here by various installed widgets.
The information contained in or provided through DOGICA® site is intended for general consumer understanding and education only and is not intended to be and is not a substitute for professional advice.
Use of this site and any information contained on or provided through this site is provided on an "as is" basis without any representations, warranties or pay.
Consider disabling Ad Block in your browser to use Language Translator, Real-Time Visitors Map and Comments Box.
