Dog Costumes

Canines have gone further up in the animal kingdom as they become fashionistas in the human world. Still, the idea that dogs can emulate humans by wearing apparel, seem to arouse controversies from two ends of the spectrum.

Dogs in the Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, when animals were used as beasts of burden, animals donned clothing as protective armours and familial coat of arms to signify ownership and status.  In the same way, dog clothes were used in the military and law enforcement as protection from attacks and the elements.

Today, clothing plays a significant role in making man’s best friend more comfortable.

Studies show that even the furriest dog could suffer from hypothermia. As a dog matures, its metabolism slows down; hence, even a tee shirt is a welcome relief for a dog to stay warm in cold weather.

Surprisingly, today, businesses directly related to the canine clothing industry continue to thrive because demands for pet jewellery and accessories have increased.

In addition, the once mediocre dog-walking activity, grooming, and pet sitting have all benefited and have become more creative over the years. In fact, dog clothes today are easy to fit and are personally designed especially for various breeds of dog.

Costumes line pet stores to address the needs of dog owners, who want their pets to look more like humans. And just like human clothes, some costumes are made of environmentally friendly materials to repel snow and water.

Many owners spend hundreds of dollars to get their dog’s clothes match their own personal wardrobe. During holidays, in fact, owners dress their dogs to match the theme of the holiday. Somehow, costumes put whimsical meaning into the old saying, putting on the dog, because a costume could make a dog become the featured attraction at any party, contest, festival or parade.

On the other hand, the ever growing amount of people who love dressing up their dogs for fashion do not realize the importance of how dog costumes should function in modern society.

Many animal rights activists feel this is a waste of time and money because this creates the impression that dog owners are superimposing their mothering instincts onto their pets.

Most important, although there is a factor of cuteness, dog fashion could be a little daunting for some. Dogs that wear fashion, force animal activists to rally against the fashion industry and have thus created contempt for their owners.

Finally, however captivating or expensive a dog costume may be, a dog’s safety must come first. Pet owners who acknowledge that their dogs have distinct and unique personalities, they must also consider comfort and safety from harsh elements when it comes to buying costumes.

In addition, giving a dog the benefit of a sweater when the climate is harsh, as opposed to buying cute designer outfits must take precedence over fashion and must provide justification why dogs must wear costumes in the first place.

Lastly, as man’s best friend, dogs must freely express themselves the way nature intended to be.