This post was updated on October 11, 2021
Is Putting Clothes On Dogs Wrong?
Is it wrong to put clothes on dogs? Well, this is certainly a controversial question! If you asked a hundred people if putting clothes on dogs is wrong you would get a lot of different answers. Some people are adamantly against it and even think that it is cruel.
A Variety Of Reasons You Might Put Clothes On Dogs
People who do put clothes on dogs do it for a variety of reasons. Some put a sweater or coat on their dog in the winter because they believe their dog gets cold. Others just enjoy putting costumes on their dog. Some dogs seem to even enjoy it, and some dogs …. well, you’ve seen pictures of dogs dressed up that seem to be giving the camera the evil eye.
Do They Really Need That Coat or Sweater?
So let’s just get right into the skinny on putting clothes on dogs. How about dog coats and sweaters? Dogs are individuals (well, duh! right?) But did you know that two separate dogs in the very same environment and temperature will react to it differently? One might be just fine while another may seek shelter because he thinks it’s cold.
- Coat (fur) type. Dogs with thick, double-layered coats (some long-haired Chihuahuas have double coats) are usually more tolerant of the cold temperatures. On the other hand dogs with very thin coats or are short-haired Chihuahua may suffer if it’s cold.
- Coat (fur) color. Black, brown or other dark-coated dogs can absorb more heat from sunlight keeping them warmer than the dogs with light-colored coats.
- Size. Small dogs lose heat through their skin much faster than larger dogs do. So, small dogs get colder quicker than larger dogs do.
- Weight. Body fat makes a good insulator. Thinner dogs also get cold quicker than dogs with more bodyweight. With that being said, don’t try to “fatten up” your dog in the winter as the health risks far outweigh the benefits of keeping him warmer.
- What they’re used to. You know how in October when the temperature dips down to 50° we run for our coat or sweater, but then after a long cold winter in April when the temperature reaches 50° we start to break out our summer clothes? Dogs who are used to the cold weather handle it much better.
- Age & health. The very young, the very old dog as well as a sick dog is not able to regulate their body temperature normally and need protection from the cold.
Chihuahuas Are Strictly Indoor Dogs
Never ever leave a Chihuahua outside unattended. Not only are they prey to Hawks and other big birds, but they also do not tolerate cold temperatures for more than a few minutes.
Should you put clothes on dogs in the summer? Even in the summer if you like the air conditioner on high, your Chihuahua may be cold. Even long-haired Chis will get cold. According to PetMD, the temperature in your house may be just right for you, but remember you are much bigger than your dog is and you are better able to stay warm. Remember too that they are close to the ground. Rember in science class when you learned that cold air falls and warm air rises? Yep, our Chihuahuas are down there where the cold air is.
Condition Your Dog to Enjoy A Coat or Sweater
Whether to put clothes on your dog or not is your decision. If you own A Chihuahua(s) and decide to, it is really a good idea to get them accustomed to wearing clothes while they are young. If you got your dog as an adult, you can still use condition training to at least tolerate wearing clothes.
Finding a Good Sweater
Consider The Material
Once you’ve decided to get a sweater or a coat for your dog, start by considering the material. While wool is warm it may make your dog uncomfortable due to itching. Also, consider washing instructions. A combination of wool and cotton or acrylic is usually a better choice.
Consider Size
Clothing sizes for pets are not universal or consistent at all. Every manufacturer sizes their pet clothing differently. However, they will or should provide measurements. Always measure your dog before you buy any clothing for them.
HOW TO MEASURE YOUR CHIHUAHUA
NECK: Measure around the neck as you would a collar allowing room for a comfortable fit.
BACK: Measure along the back from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.
CHEST: Measure the widest point of the chest, be sure to go all the way around — typically behind the front legs
If your dog’s measurement is between one size and another, always go one size up. Check out some darling Chihuahua sweaters HERE.
Finally, the answer to the question; Is it wrong to put clothes on dogs is — The decision is yours. But, if you do, you no longer need to feel guilty!
Be sure to leave a comment below and tell us your opinion of dogs wearing clothes. Did this article change your mind?
