Do You Dress Up Your Dog?

Do you have a few of these in your doggy wardrobe?

Can Your Dog Handle Those Booties?

Dog clothes are available in the bright, fuzzy, furry, silly, and the downright heinous. While that t-shirt might be cute, it usually isn't necessary.

Having a dig around recent pet-related headlines is always interesting: did you know that in January of this year, the RSPCA of the United Kingdom threatened legal action against those who overdressed their pets, including booties, all-in-one trousers, and hoodies?

As owners of small or incredible cute pups, it's tempting to dress up our dogs even when the weather is balmy. If you can't shake the urge, here are some tips on dressing up your dog appropriately.

1. Do you have a hairless or semi-hairless pup like a Chinese Crested? Dressing your dog in a tank top in summer can protect him or her against harmful sunburns while outdoors. Combine tank top use with a layer of sunscreen.

2. Does your dog seem to improve its mood when it's wearing something in particular? Some dogs enjoy soft winter sweaters that they can cuddle in.

3. Is the piece entirely functional? Even booties, one of the RSPCA's targeted doggie dress offending items, can be very useful in northern climates, particularly with an overly delicate dog. They can protect your pup's feet against damage, and facilitate walking in snowy spots.

4. Does the item protect your dog's health? If your dog needs a bath in less-than-ideal weather, using a terrycloth or plus bathrobe until your dog has warmed up is entirely acceptable.

Do you dress up your dog or not?