To Dress or Not to Dress, That is the Question!

Today the dog clothing and accessory industry is booming. There is an endless array of outfits on the market; some are simple and practical and some can be outlandish. Whether you are one of the millions of people who dress-up their pets or one of the millions who don t, really doesn t matter. The important thing to think about is how the animal feels about it. Dogs have personalities and traits much like humans in some respects. Some dogs are fashion divas and love to show off the latest styles and some would rather be left alone.

While it may be fun to dress your dog up in funny costumes and take pictures to share with friends and families, just remember that they may be feeling uncomfortable in tight restraining outfits and are willing to have their picture taken but want out of the clothes as soon as possible. In that respect they are just like people. What is the first thing most people do after having to get dressed-up for an event or special occasion? Usually when they have the chance the men yank off the suffocating tie and unbutton the stiff collars of their dress shirts to feel more comfortable. With women it is usually the uncomfortable high heels and stockings that fly to the wayside. Dogs are no different except they can t do it themselves- they have to wait for you to make them more comfortable.

Your canine pal has ways of showing you whether they appreciate all the time and money you have spent trying to make them the best dressed dog in the neighborhood. Some dogs truly enjoy wearing sweaters and coats especially on chilly days. Others will run and hide and you have to force them to be confined in their clothes. If your dog gets snappish and unintentionally bites or nips you; you might want to rethink putting undue stress on both you and your pet. On the other hand I know a little Chihuahua that doesn t like to go anywhere without a Hawaiian shirt on,

Almost everyone enjoys watching an animal show with cute little dogs running around in glittery showy costumes. The costumes are all part of the show and the performance. These types of shows are fun entertainment as long as the animals are being well treated and not abused. If they are made to work endless hours with no rest and kept in restrictive clothing all the time; then that would be different.

To dress-up or not to dress-up your pet is a personal decision. Just be sure to take into account the feelings of your four-legged friend. Watch for signs of discomfort or irritability. Remember some animals were born to be movie stars and love to be dressed-up and some were born to run free dressed in the fur they were born with.