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Is It Safe to Dress Up Your Dog? Unleashing the Truth About Doggie Dress-Up and Keeping Tails Wagging Safely

At Apawrel, we’re mutts about dog clothing – we believe every pup deserves to strut their stuff in style. However, we also understand that our furry friends' comfort and safety are paw-mount. While a cute dog outfit can make your pup the talk of the dog park, not all pet costumes are created equal. The RSPCA has shared important advice about dressing up dogs, highlighting potential risks and safety concerns. 

We’re here to dig up the truth, to shed some fur-friendly light on how to keep your canine companions both chic and cheerful, and to show you how functional dogwear can keep your furry friend stylish without stress. 


Storm the Yorkie wearing Apawrel hoodie posing atop an agility tunnel
Storm the Yorkie wearing Apawrel hoodie posing atop an agility tunnel

RSPCA’s Advice on Dressing Up Dogs 

The RSPCA Australia has raised concerns about dog outfits and advises caution when it comes to dressing up pets, especially during festive seasons. They highlight that while some outfits can be adorable, they may pose risks if not chosen carefully, and we agree. that could cause discomfort, stress, or safety risks. Their main points include: 

  • Entanglement: Some pet costumes restrict circulation and can cause overheating. Pets can also become tangled in apparel and accessories, leading to restricted movement. 

  • Ingestion: Curious chewers might swallow parts of the outfit, causing choking or digestive issues. Dogs may chew and swallow unsafe fabrics resulting in unpleasant and expensive V-E-T visits. 

  • Stress & Anxiety: Unfamiliar dog clothing can make some pups uncomfortable and anxious. 

They recommend choosing comfortable dog clothing that fits well and allows your dog to move naturally. That is, pet attire should be safe, comfortable, and allow natural behaviors to occur freely. (RSPCA Australia, 2017; RSPCA Australia, 2020). 


Dexter the Oodle wearing Apawrel hoodie jumping through long grass
Dexter the Oodle wearing Apawrel hoodie jumping through long grass

How Apawrel Designs Safe, Comfortable Dog Clothing 

We're all ears when it comes to our customers' concerns and the well-being of their four-legged friends. At Apawrel, we put dog safety first with every design. Our Paw-Testers try out our designs so we can see that our pooches stay both dapper and delighted.  Here’s how our functional dogwear keeps fetchers fetching, snuggle-pots snuggling, and tails wagging: 

  • Comfort is Key: We dig deep into sourcing pre-loved clothing and remnants that are constructed with fabrics are soft, breathable, and won’t irritate sensitive skin. Allow free movement and cater to their natural behaviours. 

  • Safety Fur-st: Our Paw-Testers keep us informed of our best designs. That means no tight elastic or dangling bits - just dog outfits made for free movement. 

  • Practical & Stylish: Beyond looking fetching, our apparel serves practical purposes. From cozy sweaters that keep chills at bay to raincoats that make wet walks a breeze, we're all about combining style with utility. 


How to Choose the Right Dog Outfit 

To ensure your pup's tail keeps wagging, when you’re shopping for dog clothing, keep these tips in mind:  

  1. Start Slow: Introduce new clothing gradually. Let your dog sniff and explore the item before wearing it. 

  2. Proper Fit: Ensure the attire fits well - not too tight to restrict movement and not too loose to cause tripping. 

  3. Prioritize Purpose: Opt for comfortable dog clothing that offers functional benefits, like warmth or protection from the elements, rather than just aesthetic appeal. 

  4. Limit Wear Time: Avoid keeping your dog dressed for extended periods, especially if they're not accustomed to it. 

  5. Watch for Stress Signs: Keep an eye on your dog when they're dressed. If they show signs of discomfort or try to remove the clothing, it might be best to ditch the outfit. 


Dexter the Oodle and Jess the Toy Poodle playing tug with Apawrel's upcycled rope toy
Dexter the Oodle and Jess the Toy Poodle playing tug with Apawrel's upcycled rope toy

Final Woof: Dressing Dogs the Safe Way 

Is it safe to dress up your dog? The answer depends on choosing the right dog outfits. At Apawrel, we're paw-sitively dedicated to merging fashion with compassion. We combine style with comfort, ensuring that every pup stays happy, safe, and cozy. By following RSPCA pet advice and focusing on our pets' well-being, we can ensure that dressing up is a treat for both ends of the leash. After all, a happy pup is the best accessory anyone can have! 


Stay paw-some and keep those tails wagging! 




References 

 


Disclaimer 

This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary, medical, or professional pet care advice. Apawrel products are designed with safety and comfort in mind, but pet owners should always assess their individual dog's needs and preferences. If you have concerns about your pet's health, behaviour, or comfort while wearing clothing, please consult a qualified veterinarian. 

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