Pets also need care and proper care, like other animals. Modern clothes for small dogs are represented by a variety of overalls, pants, sweaters, hats, insulated sets - choosing the right products for your pet will not be difficult. In addition, easy-to-make products can be sewn with your own hands, using easy drawings and patterns.
Peculiarities of taking measurements from small dogs
Dog fashion gains momentum in the winter season – that’s when pets need to feel the warmth and care of their owner. Walking along snowy streets, feeling the gusts of wind – all this is not for small dog breeds that are used to being under human protection.
In the middle of the 18th century, the first fashion trends in dog clothing emerged in England. Caring Englishmen began to dress their pets in raincoats because of the constant rainy weather.
Small dog breeds for which you can choose a huge number of wardrobe items include:
- chihuahua;
- Pomeranians;
- toy terriers;
- Yorkshire Terriers;
- shih tzu.
In order for the selection of clothes for small dogs to be competent, and the chosen garment to fit the pet perfectly, it is recommended to take measurements at home in advance. Depending on the sex of the animal, the method of measurement will be determined. The main nuances of taking measurements according to the parameters:
- back length — the dog must be positioned evenly — there is no point in measuring the pet's back in a lying position. The length of the back is a decisive factor when choosing the size of the suit. You need to arm yourself with a tape measure and take measurements from the beginning of the back to the beginning of the tail. In this case, you should not touch the length of the neck, since all models are made from the junction of the neck with the back. When taking measurements, the dog should stand on a horizontal surface with a raised, level head and back. The average back length for small breeds is from 17 to 25 cm;
- chest circumference - this parameter is measured at the widest point of the dog's chest. You need to take a measuring tape and wrap it around the pet's chest without squeezing or squeezing. Do not add a few extra centimeters to the measurements obtained: manufacturers have already taken care of the secure fit of the products. The average chest volume for mini dogs is from 28 to 40 cm;
- Neck circumference - to measure the neck circumference, it is important that the dog stands upright, without lowering its head. You need to wrap the tape around the neck area at its widest point. All the measurements obtained must be written down on a piece of paper to be used as a guide in the store. The average neck circumference for small breeds is from 18 to 24 cm.
It is worth noting that the parameters specified are generally accepted. The size is usually indicated on the tag of a wardrobe item, it is XS or S. You should not rely only on the sizes, you need to additionally check with the recorded measurements.
Types of outfits
Clothes for purebred small dogs are presented by several types of products. Such wardrobe items will help to warm the pet in winter, while it will remain beautiful and stylish. The most common types of outfits include:
- blanket;
- sets;
- overalls.
A blanket is a small item that is put on the dog over the head. It will be an excellent alternative to various sweaters that cannot be put on the pet due to its excessive activity. The blanket does not restrict the dog's movements because it is located on the neck, covers part of the body and does not touch the paws. Depending on the sex of the dog, stores offer a variety of colors: blue, light blue, pink, yellow, green. You can also find original prints on the fabric, which will make the dog stylish on a walk.
Clothing sets for small dogs consist of several wardrobe items: pants, as well as a sweater or jacket. The last detail of dog fashion is usually sewn from waterproof fabric similar to a thick raincoat. It is good if the jacket is equipped with a warm lining for the cold season. Sweaters replace jackets, they are purchased for the off-season - for walks in the spring and fall. Pants are the favorite clothing of small dogs. They go well with a jacket or sweater, the only problem is putting pants on your pet. Most dogs categorically do not accept wearing this wardrobe item.
Overalls are considered the most common types of outfits for modern miniature dogs. They are easy to put on, do not restrict the pet's movements, and are made of protective fabric. A terrier or Yorkie will feel comfortable in an overall in winter, spring, and summer. Your pet will not get dirty, and will come home from a walk clean and tidy. Overalls are equipped with zippers or buttons that fasten on the stomach or back.
Selection rules
In order for the choice of clothing model to be competent and correspond to the parameters of the pet, it is necessary to pay attention to several criteria at once. The main one will be the size grid for small breeds. For example, the well-known manufacturer of dog clothing For My Dogs has created a specific size table for small dogs. It notes that the number 8 on the label corresponds to a back length of 21 cm, and a chest circumference of 27 cm, which is completely suitable for a Yorkshire terrier, Maltese, Chihuahua and Toy Terrier.
The next size, number 10, is also suitable for the above breeds, but the back length in this case is 24 cm, and the chest circumference is 32 cm. The difference lies in the age of the dog: for example, purebred puppies only reach certain developmental standards over time. It is also worth considering that when choosing clothes for male dogs, sizes may vary, because males are often larger than females.
Main criteria for selecting products:
- the presence of accessories and decor. It is worth making sure that the jumpsuit or blanket does not have unnecessary ties, frills and rhinestones. Of course, such decor will make the dog the most stylish, but it is unlikely to add comfort. When washing, such elements can peel off, which will worsen the appearance of the product;
- the gender of the dog - for girls they produce dresses, skirts, sundresses, and for boys they sew jackets, overalls and sweatshirts;
- minimum of additional details. It is worth giving up clothes with a hood: if the baby is too active, this detail will fall over his eyes when running;
- product material. You don't need to buy clothing models made of synthetics, it's better to give preference to natural materials.
When choosing winter sets, it is recommended to pay attention to the tightness of the seams, as well as choose a durable, windproof material. The last and main criterion for choosing is the pet's comfort. If the dog is uncomfortable and constantly wants to take off the product, most likely, it interferes with its movement.
Care
After each walk with the dog, the clothes must be brought into proper condition by cleaning. If the fabric is not very dirty, it is enough to brush it with a clothes brush, slightly moistening it with water. When washing in a washing machine, manufacturers recommend choosing a delicate mode, but it is better to wash the products by hand. As a powder, you should use specialized products for dogs that do not cause allergies in the pet.
Drying of clothes is done in the usual way - on the balcony or on a drying rack. When choosing clothes for your little pet, do not forget about the color of the products: the brighter it is, the easier it is to spot the pet on the street.
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