Dog Clothes: A Practical Buying Guide

Short-haired and small breeds lose heat fast in cold weather, senior dogs regulate temperature less efficiently, and dogs recovering from surgery or skin conditions sometimes need a barrier layer. If your dog shivers on a normal walk or has little to no undercoat, a properly fitted layer isn't just aesthetic.

Sizing is where most clothing purchases go wrong. Measure your dog's neck, chest (the widest point, usually just behind the front legs), and length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail rather than relying on weight-based size charts, which vary wildly between brands and don't account for build differences.

For material, look for stretch in the fabric around the shoulders (this is where most dogs are restricted and will try to shake a garment off), and machine-washable construction — anything your dog wears outside is getting dirty. Reflective materials or a bright color are worth prioritizing for evening walks.

Finally, watch for the actual fit in motion, not just standing still: a coat that rides up over the back when your dog runs, or leg openings that chafe with movement, will get resisted every time you try to put it on.