FAQ: Clothing for dogs

Signs of dangerous cold include strong shivering, lethargy, slowed breathing, cold ears and paws and poor coordination. Warm such a dog promptly by wrapping it in a dry blanket and contact a vet.

A jacket or snowsuit protects the torso, but the ear tips, tail and paws are most at risk of frostbite. In hard frost, shorten walks, protect the paws and check for pale or hard skin, in which case contact a vet.

The jacket may be too thin for the weather, wet, too big and letting in wind, or not covering the belly. Dogs also shiver from excitement, fear or pain, so if shivering continues somewhere warm, talk to your vet.

There is no evidence that clothing impairs a healthy dog's coat growth or natural tolerance. What matters is using clothing only when it is really needed and not dressing a dog that is already warm, as overheating is also harmful.

Dark, brown or grey garments show dirt less, but they are poorly visible in the dark, so they need wide reflective strips. Bright garments are more visible but look dirty sooner.

Dogs with a curled tail, such as spitz types or pugs, suit jackets that end before the tail or have a cut-out. A longer jacket presses the tail down and slides to the side.

Synthetic garments can build up static in dry cold weather and attract more hair, and some dogs find the static shocks unpleasant. Natural or blended fabrics and more humid indoor air help.

Noise-sensitive dogs can be frightened by stiff film or nylon rustling near their ears. Get the dog used to it gradually with treats, or choose quieter fabrics such as softshell or fleece.

Yes, especially on long-haired dogs, if the zip has no protective flap inside. Hold the garment away from the body while zipping and choose models where the zip is covered by fabric.

Adjustable Velcro, buckles or drawcords let you fit the garment precisely to the dog's body and wear it over a sweater. This is especially useful for puppies, broad-chested dogs and those between sizes.

It is a snug stretchy shirt that covers irritated skin or a wound so the dog does not lick or scratch it. Use it only on a vet's advice, as the cause of itchy skin needs to be diagnosed and treated.

Yes, but shed hair builds up under the garment and can mat, so brush the dog more often during moulting and clean the garment more often too. Light pyjamas at home can reduce hair on furniture.

It is a bright vest with a label showing that the dog is working or in training and asking people not to distract it. It is most often worn by guide, assistance or search dogs. It is not meant to warm, so a thin garment can be worn under it in cold weather.

If your dog normally gets cold, dress it for the trip to the vet too, especially if it is ill or weak. Take the garment off at the clinic so the dog does not overheat and the vet can examine it more easily.

Garments made from recycled polyester or other recycled fibres can be just as warm and durable as standard ones. When choosing, still look at size, water resistance, fastenings and sewing quality.

Some dog jackets or vests have a small pocket for poo bags or an ID card. This is handy, but the pocket should close, and do not keep treats in it so the dog does not chew the garment.

Many shelters accept clean, undamaged dog clothing, especially for winter and post-surgery care. Before donating, ask the specific shelter what it needs most.

From below the garment should evenly cover the chest, not bunch up in the armpits and leave enough room for the legs. Straps or Velcro under the belly must not press and, for males, must not cover the genitals.

A dog that stands still, for example while you wait at a bus stop, gets cold faster than one that is walking. For small dogs, clothing is especially helpful at such times, even if a short walk would be fine without it.

Better not: a damp coat under a jacket dries slowly, the dog gets chilled and the skin can become irritated. Towel the dog dry well before dressing it after a bath or rain.