The riskiest phrase when choosing dog clothes is "it will definitely fit". In a photo everything can look perfect, whether it is a coat, a jumper or a raincoat. It is the first walk that shows whether a piece is actually comfortable, so here are the five most common mistakes, and how to avoid them.
Clothes that ignore the weather
A dog coat should suit not just the season, but the actual weather outside. What works on a cool autumn evening can be too warm on a sunny afternoon.
Fur is a wonderful thing, but it does not always work like a padded jacket. Small breeds, puppies, older dogs and short-haired dogs lose heat faster, which is why puppy clothes or a coat for a senior dog often needs to be warmer than something for a healthy adult of the same size.
Before every walk it is worth looking not only at the temperature, but also at the wind, rain and humidity. Those are what really decide how cold your dog feels. If rain is on the way, a waterproof dog coat works better than a simple dog jumper, even when the temperature is not very low.
A rough guide for small, short-haired dogs:
- Above 15°C - no clothes needed; a light layer only if it is windy or wet.
- 5 to 15°C - a jumper or a gilet for evening walks.
- Below 5°C - an insulated coat; for seniors and puppies even earlier.
- Rain - a raincoat matters more than the number on the thermometer.
Guessing the size
One of the most common mistakes is choosing a size by the letter alone - XS, S or M - based on what other small dogs seem to wear in photos online. The same goes for questions like "what size fits a Chihuahua or a Yorkie": the answer always depends on the individual dog, not just the breed.
Size charts vary a lot between brands, and even within one breed dogs can be surprisingly different. One Chihuahua is tiny and slim; another is noticeably stockier. So it is always better to go by your dog's real measurements than by a label or a breed name.
If the fastening barely closes, it is not a sign that your dog should lose a few grams. It is a sign that the size is simply too small.
All you need is the chest girth, the neck girth and the back length. To compare those numbers, use our size guide for small dogs.
The first walk in something new
Not every dog feels comfortable in something new straight away. For some it is a completely unfamiliar sensation that takes a moment to get used to.
Before you head out for that first walk, let your dog wear the coat around the house for a while. Offer a treat, or just play for a minute, and the clothes stop being something new and suspicious.
That way the first encounter with a new piece goes much more smoothly, and you avoid the sight of a dog walking as stiffly as a robot.
Forgetting about the harness
Even if a piece sits perfectly at home, things can change once the harness goes on. When you choose a dog coat to wear with a harness, it is worth checking straight away that the two work well together, ideally before you buy, not on the first walk.
The fabric can bunch up under the straps, twist or restrict your dog's movement. So always try the coat together with the harness and check that your dog walks, runs and sits freely.
There are even gilets with a built-in ring for clipping on the lead. A dog coat with a lead ring like that means you do not have to put a harness on top at all. It is a handy solution, but whatever style you choose, the key thing is that nothing presses on your dog or shifts around as they move.
Hard to put on
The simpler it is to dress your dog, the calmer getting ready for a walk becomes.
While you are still wrangling paws, doing up buttons and working out which end is the front, your dog has been ready to leave for ages.
Before buying, look at how the piece is designed: whether the head opening is wide enough, whether it is easy to slip the front legs through, and how many fastenings you actually have to close. If your dog does not enjoy getting dressed, it is better to choose pieces without tight openings or complicated fastenings. Step-in and over-the-head styles can both be comfortable. The main thing is that it goes on in one movement and does not need endless fiddling with the fabric.
Well-chosen dog clothes are not just about pretty photos. Above all, they are about your dog's comfort and freedom to move. Avoiding a few simple mistakes is enough to make every walk pleasant, for your dog and for you.
And if you are ever unsure about size or style, we are happy to help you find something that truly fits your dog. 🤍
FAQ
Does a dog need clothes if it already has fur?
It depends on the breed and the thickness of the undercoat. Small breeds with a thin coat usually benefit from an extra layer on colder days. Fur alone is not always enough protection against cold and wind.
How do I measure my dog for clothes?
The basic measurements are the chest girth (at the widest point, just behind the front legs), the neck girth and the back length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. Compare those numbers with the specific brand's size chart, not just a general S/M/L.
How do I know if a dog coat is too small?
Put it on your dog and watch them move around normally for a few minutes. Check that they can step freely and sit down without resistance, and that the fabric does not press under the front legs or at the neck.
At what temperature does a dog need a coat?
It depends on the dog. Small breeds, short-haired dogs, puppies and seniors often start to feel the cold at around 10 to 15°C. Wind and rain lower that point further, so watch for shivering or lifted paws and add a layer when you see them.
Can my dog wear clothes with a harness?
Yes. Choose a gilet or another sleeveless style, or a piece with an opening for the harness, and always try both on together. Check that nothing bunches under the straps and that your dog can move freely.
How do I wash and care for dog clothes?
A gentle cycle in cool water with a mild detergent is usually enough. Air dry rather than tumble dry, and always follow the care label on the specific piece.
Which dogs need clothes the most?
Small breeds, short-haired and thin-coated dogs, puppies and older dogs lose heat fastest. Breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkies and French Bulldogs often benefit from an extra layer on cold or wet days.
How do I get my dog used to wearing clothes?
Start at home with short sessions and a treat, so the clothing feels normal before the first walk. Build up gradually and keep it positive, and most dogs take to it quickly.
