How I Learned to Stop Hating and Love Wearing Dog Clothes

Rebel Without a Sweater

OMG, what are they wearing? Is that dog wearing boots? Cute jacket! Where did you get it? Those are the best-dressed dogs I’ve ever seen. Who styles them?

These are questions I overhear my ‘pawrents’ get asked by other dog owners over and over again while walking me and Willow, my fun big sister.

It’s not surprising anymore because when you dress as well as we do, you’re bound to attract a few ‘hooman’ admirers and receive extra sniffs from the neighborhood pack. It’s only natural they want to find out more about our style and fashion choices.

But dressing up hasn’t always been about making new friends or trying to be cool. At least for me, I don’t want to bark for Willow, but wearing the latest padded jacket or sweater was about comfort first and style second.

You see, a few years ago I moved to New York City right in the middle of winter when the weather was at its nastiest. One cold chilly winter morning, I found myself paws deep in the most slushy, iciest snow ever. Boy, I wasn’t ready at all for that drastic change, especially coming from sunny California. I was used to being a badass in perfect weather but now I was just a rebel without a sweater, freezing my balls off.

And it wasn’t just the snow that was harsh on my feet. It was all that salt they used to melt the ice on the sidewalks. The salt really tore my paw pads UP! I mean we’re talking about chemical burns here. It was not pretty. I repeat, not pretty.

Thankfully, my mom knew enough to not let me lick and chew my paws as it would have been worse. She started doing research on her computer on how to care for my paws during the winter.

I truly love my mom…it’s little things like this that let me know she cares. So the next day when she came home with a thick parka coat and snow booties, my little nub tail was wagging so fast.

I’m not going to lie, that first time walking in my dog booties was a little awkward to say the least. But considering my toes were no longer numb and completely warm, I chalked up the entire ordeal as a BIG WIN.

Full disclosure, I didn’t instantly warm to dressing up after winter passed. Yes, the warm winter jacket and dog booties were a necessity at the time, but then spring rolled around followed by summer and the last thing I was thinking about was wrapping a piece of clothing around my already warm furnace of a body.

My mom had other plans. But anytime she held up a t-shirt or gushed about how an outfit would look cute on me, I would make a beeline for my “dog cave” and stayed put until she gave up, leaving me alone.

So what changed? My mom started buying clothing made for dogs like me. You see I’m lean, but I have a broad chest and narrow hips. So a lot of my earlier outfits were always way too tight against my chest, constricting my natural stride.

My mom started keeping a tape measure within reach so she could measure my neck, chest and back length to ensure all my clothing would always fit properly. Once I was able to trot freely in every outfit, I enjoyed the warmth and comfort surrounding me.

I’ve worn everything from sun protective jackets, bathrobes and onesies to hats, sweaters and fun costumes. But I must admit my go-to outfit would be pajamas all day, every day.

I know what you’re thinking, he’s a frenchie so of course he likes PJs because he’s lazy and always ready for a nap. Okay, so the latter part of that statement is very true, but it’s also true that my PJs make me feel protected and curling up at night has never felt better.

I know some pups aren’t into dog fashion and refuse to dress up at all. Trust me, I get that more than you’ll ever know. But remember, dressing up doesn’t have to be a chore. It doesn’t have to be about looking cool either. It can be about function and utility.

You know, a nice wool coat and crochet beanie to keep you feeling warm and toasty. Plus, there are plenty of styles tailored to specific breeds and it’s not about wearing just any piece of clothing. It’s about finding the right style, that special something made just for you and your personality.

Winter is in full swing and apparently there will be copious amounts of snow, rain, sleet, ice and let’s not forget strong gusty winds. For this very reason, I decided to stock up on some warm winter sweaters, long johns & doggy socks.

Our hardwood floors can really chill your paws and I’m not interested in feeling uncomfortable in my own home. Dressing up for me started off as a necessity and now has become a part of my daily routine. I wouldn’t have it any other way!

Check out some of my favorites sweaters that keep me warm in the fall and winter.

Duff Beer Dog Sweater

Every hype pup needs a hype sweater that'll keep them warm during cold and windy nights. Incredibly soft on the inside and fans of The Simpsons will absolutely love it too.

Southwestern Dog Sweater

Eye-catching pattern with rich colors. Elegantly designed and comfy to wear, this lovely and fashionable sweater will add beauty to your dog's wardrobe.

Also available in Gray, the Southwestern Dog Sweater features a ribbed elastic waist, ensuring a snug fit and it's easy to put on and take off.

For more cute doggy sweaters and hoodies, click here to find out what's on sale.

Ooooh time for treats... Dilla out!