Autumn is here! As the beautiful leaves fall off the trees, we also see the drop in temperature.
And as the season changes from feeling the brightness and warmth of the sun to feeling the cool and crips autumn air, it’s important to remember that this change can affect our furry friends’ comfort, safety, and protection.
Just like us, hoomans, our dogs can benefit from a change in their wardrobe that is tailored to the changing season and weather.
So, in this article, we’ll talk about dogs and autumn essential clothing items that are stylish, comfortable, and will keep our furry friends protected.
The Importance Of Seasonal Clothing For Your Dog
There are dogs with thick and dense coat made for the cooler temperature that autumn, and soon, winter, brings. Dogs like Alaskan Malamutes, Siberian Huskies, Samoyeds, Saint Bernards have coats that can keep them warm.
However, not all dogs are the same – some may be built for the cool weather, but some are not. And that’s why there are a lot of reasons why Autumn clothing is important for dogs.
First, there are some dog that cannot keep themselves warm with just only their coat. For example, dogs with thin or short coats (like Chihuahuas and Greyhounds) and dogs that sit low on the ground (like Corgis) have a disadvantage during the colder weather.
Second, we have to take into consideration senior dogs. As dogs grow old, their heat regulation declines with age. And senior dogs have a weakened immune system and may suffer from joint issues or arthritis brought about by the cooler temperature.
Third, autumn brings about unforeseeable weather conditions and oftentimes, rain. So, autumn clothing doesn’t only keep dogs warm, but it can also protect them from the rain, wind, mud, wet leaves, and other elements when out and about.
Fourth, as days become shorter and darker, walking your dog can be dangerous without using clothing with reflective materials or lights. These clothing items enhances safety by helping your dog become more visible to cars and other pedestrians during early morning or evening walks.
And finally, it gives us the opportunity to pamper our pooches and keep them in style for the season! Dogs and autumn go together like pumpkin and spice, so this is the perfect time to dress up our dogs while keeping them comfy and safe.
Factors To Consider When Buying Autumn Clothing For Dogs
Whether its for a cozy morning on the couch or a brisk early morning walk, finding the perfect clothing items can make all the difference in your dog’s indoor and outdoor experience this autumn.
So, to make sure you find the best autumn clothing for your dog, let’s discuss the following factors to consider:
- Size and fit: It goes without saying that when buying clothing items, the size and fit matters. Getting the right size is crucial for your dog’s comfort. So, make sure to take accurate measurement of your dog’s body and check the item’s sizing chart to help you choose the right size. Oh, and if available, check if the item is adjustable!
- Comfortability: In connection with the size and fit, the clothing item must be comfortable and must not restrict your dog’s movements, especially when walking.
- Material: The material is also an important factor to consider when buying autumn clothing. It must have enough insulation to keep your dog warm, must be wind and waterproof, and must be reflective. Clothing made with features like these ensure the effectiveness of the item for the weather.
- Durability: Of course, clothing items must be durable and last through multiple autumn (and even winter) seasons and different adventures. Look for clothing items that can withstand wear and tear so you can ensure that you also get your money’s worth!
- Ease of cleaning: In addition to durability, it also pays to consider the ease of cleaning and maintenance of the item. This is especially important if you’re buying a dog coat or jacket for outdoor adventures where your dog can get dirty.
- Style and design: Of course, you also have to consider style and design! Like us, hoomans, dogs and autumn fashion is a MUST! While we’re all for comfort and functionality, a little style won’t hurt.
Dogs And Autumn: 6 Essential Clothing Items For Your Dog This Autumn
1. Dog Sweaters
On a crisp autumn day, sweaters are going to be your dog’s new best friend to keep them cozy and warm.
They are perfect for protecting your furry friends from the chilly breeze and are especially useful for short-coated dog breeds. They also work well for senior dogs and puppies who need extra warmth.
And you’ll be pleased to know that there are dog sweaters with reflective materials to increase your dog’s visibility during an early morning or evening walk.
Aside from their functionality, dog sweaters are stylish clothing items. You can find a style for every purpose or celebration. Trying to celebrate Halloween? A Halloween-themed sweater will do it!
Here are some of our favorite dog sweaters you might actually want to check out!
2. Wind and Waterproof Dog Coats
Fall brings upon a lot of rain and wind. So a dog coat that is both windproof and waterproof is essential for keeping your furry friend dry during those unforeseeable weather conditions.
Furthermore, dog coats are the perfect outdoor outfit for your pooch for that autumn outdoor adventure as they provide extra warmth without restricting movement.
Here are a few stylish and definitely autumn-ready coats to add to your furry friend’s autumn wardrobe:
3. Raincoats
We know how unpredictable the weather can be during Autumn. So, another autumn and rainy day essential is a raincoat!
Of course, we’d want our dog’s raincoat to be waterproof so it can keep them dry during a rainy day. And aside from being waterproof, a good raincoat should also have reflective materials to help with visibility.
Furthermore, it should also be a comfortable fit and is able to protect your dog’s head without overheating.
Here are our top dog raincoat picks!
4. Dog Boots
It goes without saying that protecting our furry friends’ paws from different elements is essential, no matter the weather or season.
Other than paw balms to help soothe our dogs’ paws from touching different surfaces all the time, it also pays to protect their paws from uncomfortable, and possibly, dangerous situations.
So, dog boots are going to be a must during autumn! Here are a few reasons why we love dog boots and why we think they’re an essential:
- They help your dog prevent injury from wet, slippery, and muddy surfaces
- They keep paws clean and protected
- They enhance traction and grip, which is especially helpful on slippery surfaces
- They provide extra comfort during long walks
- They add extra visibility during walks since they come with reflective features
Here are some of our favorite dog boots that you can check out:
5. Reflective Collars and Harnesses
Reflective collars and/or harnesses are a must-have! They help keep your dog visible during early morning walks or night walks when visibility is low, which is going to be common during autumn.
These collars/harnesses feature bright colors with reflective piping/stitching that makes your dog more visible to drivers and fellow pedestrians, therefore reducing the risk of accidents and enhancing your dog’s safety.
Here are some of our favorite reflective collars and harnesses for your furry friend:
6. Autumn-inspired Bandanas
Need a little more style that will also serve a purpose? Well, you might want to give autumn-inspired bandanas or scarves a chance!
Bandanas might be the autumn clothing item your dog might need to complete their whole look this season. Besides, they provide an additional layer of warmth around your dog’s neck, especially for dogs that are sensitive to the cool weather.
Furthermore, bandanas come in many colors and designs, so you have plenty of options to choose from! They’ll make your pooch look fashionable, any time and anywhere – not only during autumn, but also during any season!
Looking to get one for your pooch? Here are a few bandanas that are perfect for autumn:
Conclusion
Choosing the right clothing for your dog this autumn is essential in keeping them warm, dry, cozy, comfortable, and protected no matter the weather condition.
And by taking in important factors such as your dog’s size, material, ease of use and maintenance, durability and comfortability, you can choose autumn clothing essentials that allows your dog to be able to enjoy the season as much as you do – in comfort and style!
Do you have any autumn clothing essentials for pooches that we didn’t mention? Share them in the comment section below!