Yorkshire terriers are small decorative dogs that have a hard time getting used to harsh winters. For this reason, clothes for Yorkies are very popular, protecting the little ones from the cold and wind. Obedient, smart pets quickly get used to clothes. You can sew things for small dogs with your own hands.
What is the breed?
Before choosing a wardrobe for your pet, you need to learn about the characteristics of the breed. Many inexperienced dog breeders choose Yorkies because of their sociability and docile nature. Yorkies are one of the smallest and cutest (in appearance and character) dogs. They get along easily with other animals, do not cause trouble, and are prone to affection.
The breed's homeland is England. It is believed that the ancestors of Yorkshire terriers were rat-catching terriers, who rid the English of annoying rodents. The breed has its own characteristic features:
- the size of the dog rarely exceeds 20 cm at the withers. The compact size allows you to take your pet with you on trips and travels;
- without a haircut, the pet's fur will reach the floor. If you plan to dress up the baby, a haircut will help avoid problems;
- Yorkshire Terriers are very active, cheerful and lively. They love walks and active games. Pets' clothes should be comfortable. If the fabric restricts movement, the dog will become depressed;
- the breed has its advantages and disadvantages. Yorkies are loyal, cute, cheerful, their fur does not cause allergies. But constant and thorough grooming is necessary, health also requires attention. All representatives of the breed need clothes, in winter they freeze, cannot play and run. You need to think about shoes for your pet.
You can find many photos of Yorkies in clothes. They look cute, but the main function of clothes is to protect the dog from the cold. Babies often catch colds, get rhinitis, otitis, so caring for them is so important.
Types of outfits
Dressing up your little pet is a real pleasure. Yorkies are obedient and rarely resist attempts to put things on them. Owners need to remember that the main function of clothing is not decorativeness. The dog should feel comfortable, convenient, and not freeze.
There are several types of clothing:
- for the cold season. Overalls, jackets, and raincoats are perfect for cold weather. They are made of thick waterproof fabric that protects the animal's sides and back from icy wind, frost, and moisture. A hood will protect the ears;
- for the demi-season - for autumn, high-quality knitted clothes for Yorkies will be an excellent option. But in the rain, they will get wet. In dry and windless weather, a warm sweater made of natural wool will be a good option, for rain - comfortable raincoats, raincoats;
- decorative outfits - they are intended for decoration and do not have any special practical value. These are skirts, dresses, T-shirts, small wedding suits. Dressy clothes are sewn from breathable hypoallergenic fabrics, are well suited for spring, summer or a special occasion;
- home clothes - dressing gowns and sweaters for home will help your pet not to freeze during the heating outage. Soft dressing gowns absorb moisture after bathing. Long-haired Yorkies need such things. They are made of microfiber, which absorbs water, but the material quickly becomes electrified.
Comfort is very important for dogs. When choosing things, touch the material, how pleasant, eco-friendly, soft it is. The fewer seams and synthetics, the better.
Selection rules
Pet shops offer a wide range of outfits for any occasion, weather. It is easy to get confused in the abundance of fashionable new clothes. Remember the main tasks of clothing: protection from the cold, disease prevention, protection from dirt and chemicals. Rhinestones and bows should be the last thing you pay attention to.
The following rules will help you avoid making mistakes when choosing:
- Clothes for female Yorkies intended for the cold season have a closed belly. Colds and cystitis lead to infertility, so protection from the cold is especially important for girls;
- In winter and autumn, protection from the wind is required. Many seams on clothing reduce thermal insulation properties;
- Fasteners should not cause injury. The best choice is buttons, ties, elastic bands. Zippers and Velcro pull out Yorkies' long hair, cause discomfort, and leave bald spots;
- Clothes for Yorkshire Terrier boys should not restrict movement. They are active and playful, they like to mark their territory. A good option would be elastic fabric that does not restrict the movement of the paws. The toilet neckline is triangular, from the belly to the tail;
- Before buying, measure the length of the back from the neck to the base of the tail, chest circumference, and withers height. Measurements will help determine the size correctly. Sizes are indicated on items: XS, S, M, L;
- Yorkshire Terriers need clothes, but not all the time. In the summer, in the warm season, the dog should run around naked.
Pay attention to your pet's reaction. Discomfort is indicated by behavior: the dog tries to pull the thing off you. Cut and color are not as important as comfort.
How to Train a Dog to Wear Clothes
A pet that is not used to wearing things will resist. For small dogs, clothes are not a whim of the owner, but a necessity. It is advisable to accustom your pet from childhood. An adult animal will experience severe discomfort. Choose the size carefully. If you sew yourself, it is easier to adjust the item to your pet.
It is not difficult to make things with your own hands. Clothes for Yorkies made with knitting needles are very popular. Natural materials, elastic threads allow the pet to move freely without feeling the clothes on itself.
The following tips will help you accustom your dog to your wardrobe:
- the optimal age for training is 3-4 months. Puppies at this age are very docile and easy to train;
- choose simple and convenient fasteners. The item should be easy to put on without causing your pet any suffering;
- At first, the best option would be loose clothing. The Yorkie does not feel friction against the fur, does not feel constrained, does not get nervous, and gets used to it faster;
- It is better to start at home. Put a simple wardrobe item on your baby, let him get used to it, walk around in it. 10-15 minutes is enough to start. After wearing it, give your pet a treat, praise him;
- You can take your dog outside in clothes on the 3rd day. Spring and warm autumn are suitable for training. You should start with light clothes. Yorkshire terriers love to walk, on the street they forget about clothes, they run and play;
- Do not get irritated, do not scold the Yorkie if he resists, does not allow himself to be dressed. It is necessary to gently insist on your own, without showing aggression.
Remember that Yorkies are smart animals. A categorical refusal of a pet to wear a T-shirt or dress is a signal to the owner. It means the dog is experiencing discomfort.
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