Some people may find it ridiculous to treat dogs as anything more than dogs. However, true dog lovers know that their beloved pets deserve to be spoiled. After all, a dog’s loyalty should be rewarded with treats, toys, and other accessories that make your dog look fabulous. And to this end, pet stores are lined with flashy collars, knitted sweaters, and tiny backpacks.
However, when choosing an accessory for your dog, try to resist the urge of choosing the first one you see. Every dog has different tastes and a different tolerance level for what they will allow you to put on them. Since it’s so difficult to decide with such a rich offer and cute designs wherever you go, we decided to give you a hand and show you how today’s dog fashion looks like.
The Collar – the first step
Collars are the easiest accessory to pick out for dogs since many dog owners make their dogs wear a collar at all times. Therefore, collars are available for all types of dogs and come in all possible colors and materials.
Most local pet stores sell basic one-color collars but you’ll also find products featuring simple designs such as paw prints. If you and your dog don’t like to be overly flashy, then a simple collar will be perfect. Still, if you want something a bit more original and easy to notice, you should consider something more unique and vivid.
Muzzles – the weird accessory to try
You might be scratching your head with this suggestion, and with good reason. Muzzles should never be used as a fashion accessory. However, there is a legitimate reason regarding why to put muzzles on this list.
While muzzles should never be used to modify behavior, sometimes muzzles are necessary. Some dogs require muzzles when they go to the vet. Sometimes they are used to prevent dogs from picking up food off the street. Often, they are used to stop dogs from licking off topical medication they may be allergic too.
Therefore, when you do have to put a muzzle on your dog, you don’t have to choose one that makes your dog look ugly and mean. There is a large variety of muzzles to choose from but, if you are having trouble picking out a muzzle that is functional and good-looking, read this article on the best dog muzzles.
Outfits
Outfits have become a fun way to showcase your dog’s personality. Many pet stores often offer a wider selection of outfits for small dogs but, thanks to the internet, there are still plenty of options for larger dogs.
Sweaters and jackets are common outfit options. They are also a good option for smaller dogs that have trouble staying warm when it’s cold outside and they may be looser and more comfortable for your dog to wear.
However, there are plenty of themed outfits available online for those who want a variety of dog clothes. Some outfits even include booties or hats to complete the outfits. However, before rushing to buy your dog an entire wardrobe, make sure your dog enjoys wearing clothes.
If your dog fights when you try to put a sweater on him or he completely freezes once he’s dressed, then take the outfit off. Never force your dog to wear an outfit just because you find it cute. It’s ok to accessorize your pup, but only if he or she is comfortable with it.
Leashes
Once upon a time, leashes were just a way to transport your dog from point A to point B. Now leashes are one more way to make your dog look fashionable. Furthermore, recent leash designs allow dog owners to walk their dog in various kinds of weather and during different time throughout the day.
For example, dog owners can now buy a leash that doubles as an umbrella. Not only does this leash look incredibly cute but it protects your dog from the rain and snow. There is also a leash that has a small zippered bag attached to the end. Not only does it come in cute patterns, but you can use it to bring along a small water bowl.
Life Jackets
If your dog loves to swim, but you worry about his swimming skills, then life jackets are the perfect accessory to purchase. When purchasing a life jacket for your dog, there are a few things to consider other than the way it looks.
First, make sure you purchase a life jacket that properly fits your dog. It shouldn’t be too tight or too lose. You also want to purchase a life jacket with lifting handles, just in case your dog gets stuck and you need to pull him out of the water.
Once you find the right fit, then you can start looking at different designs. Most life jackets are one color, but some websites sell life jackets with patterns and other cute designs. If you look hard enough it shouldn’t be too difficult to find both a practical and fashionable life jacket.
Backpacks
Just like you shouldn’t force your dog to wear an outfit, you shouldn’t force your dog to wear a small backpack either. However, if your dog is used to wearing accessories than buying him a backpack is guaranteed to make any passersby say “aww.”
There are different backpack styles you can purchase. Although, some are more practical than fashionable. For example, some backpacks that look like a dog harness but have two side pouches attached to it. These allow your dog to carry his own equipment without straining his back.
Other dog backpacks are harnesses with a pouch directly sewn onto the back. These packs usually come in a variety of styles and tend to look more like typical backpacks.
Ultimately, the accessories you buy to make your dog look stylish should also be functional. It’s fun to make your dog look cute, but if your dog doesn’t like what he or she is wearing, then it’s not worth it. The goal is for your dog to have fun while looking as fashionable as you do.
Author Bio:
Anna Smith resides in beautiful Santa Monica, CA, where she works as a Pet Nutrition Expert in a leading retail pet store. She is responsible for nutritional strategies for different breeds and development of new products on the market in compliance with Association of American Feed Control Officials. Anna’s passions are education about proven methods and best practices in the industry and her dog Max, who is always well-fed. She also helps curate contents for DogsAholic.com
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