Do Pets Really Need Clothes? The Truth Pet Owners Must Know

Pet apparel is more popular than it's ever been. Whether it be doggy hoodies and kitty bowties, social media is swamped with pictures of pets in clothes and looking stylish while doing so. However, beneath the cuteness and clicks comes a question that every responsible pet owner should consider: Do pets actually need clothing, or do they just look cute in it?
To properly answer the question, we will use facts, opinions, and best-practice pet care information to help determine when clothing helps, when it hurts, and how to determine what's best for your furry friend.

Yes, many pets DO need clothing in the winter - especially short-haired or small breeds. The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) states that dogs like Chihuahuas, Greyhounds, Dachshunds, and French Bulldogs have less body fat or short fur and are therefore more sensitive to cold temperatures. In areas with cold climates, a sweater or jacket helps to maintain a dog's body temperature and prevent hypothermia.
> Stat to Know: A 2021 survey by Rover.com found that 64% of pet-parents who live in a cold-weather region dress their dogs to take them for walks in the winter.
Good for use:
Insulated jackets

Fleece sweaters

Water-resistant coats for snow or rain
Just like people, pets with thin and/or light-colored coats can get sunburn. This includes breeds like the Chinese Crested, Dalmatians, and hairless cats. A lightweight dog shirt can protect your pet's skin from harmful UV rays and skin damage.
When to use:

- Hot, sunny weather

- Skin conditions or dog allergies

- Pets recovering from surgery, with exposed skin
Veterinarians will often recommend recovery suits or protective clothing to prevent pets from licking or chewing on a wound, stitches, or an irritated skin area. These types of dog clothing are also usually more affordable (and cuter!) than using the old tried-and-true cone of shame.
Common use includes — but is not limited to:

- After spaying/neutering

- Skin allergies or hot spots

- Protecting or covering a bandage or wound

In hot weather, your pet could easily become too hot in clothing, causing them to pant, dehydrate, and/or suffer heatstroke! By ASPCA, dogs cool down through panting and also through their paw pads—clothing might inhibit this process!
> Expert tip: Do not dress your pets in clothing if the outside temperature is above 25°C (77°F), unless it is a lightweight, breathable, medical-grade fabric.
Some pets just don’t like clothes—and that’s okay! If your pet seems bothered and wants to rip the clothes off, if they freeze in place, scratch at the clothes a lot, or growl, it’s not worth it.
> Pro Tip: Always go slow. Let your pet smell the clothes first. Treats and other positive reinforcement are helpful here, along with verbal praise. Don’t force it.
Let’s be honest; there are some pet outfits simply for aesthetics and not practicality. It's perfectly fine to dress your pet up a few times a year for a costume like Halloween or a photo shoot. But regular use of clothes that are impractical, uncomfortable, or tight can irritate the skin, restrict movement, and increase stress in your pet.

This is some of the professional advice on what to look for when shopping for pet clothing:
> Insider Info: If your pet has allergies or sensitive skin, consider hypoallergenic fabrics such as bamboo or organic cotton.
Cats tend to tolerate clothing less than dogs do. Most veterinarians and behaviorists agree that cats don’t need clothing, unless there is a medical necessity for it. Cats do a good job of regulating body temperature, and they typically dislike restraint.
If your cat needs clothing because of (overexposure to sun protection or after) or medical reasons, rather than clothing being purely for aesthetics, pet parents should follow the guidelines discussed here for clothing their pet.

If your cat needs clothing for sun protection or after surgery:
Limit the amount of time you keep the clothing on your cat.
Supervise very closely for distress.
Don't dress older or anxious cats.Yes, but only when they have a health, safety, or comfort benefit. Clothing can be good when it is cold, after surgery, or for sun protection. But dressing your pet in clothing just for looks, especially if they do not like it, is not recommended.
The golden rule? If your pet is comfortable, safe, and happy in clothes, use the clothes. If not, do not use the clothes and be in love with them just the way they are.

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