Dog Apparel

Dog Apparel and Costumes

Dog clothing gets dismissed as purely decorative, but that's not the full picture. A dog without much body fat or a short coat loses heat fast in cold weather — a jacket or sweater makes a real difference in comfort and warmth retention. Raincoats keep dogs dry on wet walks, which matters because a wet dog is a cold dog and a smelly dog. And yes, some of it is also for fun — bandanas, costumes, and holiday outfits are part of having a dog. This page covers everything we carry in dog apparel at Petspls.

Dog Outerwear

Dog Raincoats

A good raincoat has two jobs: keep the rain out and let moisture escape. Waterproof fabric handles the first part. Ventilation or breathable materials handle the second — without them, a dog sweats under the coat and ends up just as wet from the inside. Our raincoats include full-body ponchos, hooded styles, and reflective options for visibility in low-light rainy weather. Look for a coat that covers the back from neck to tail for maximum coverage. A belly panel helps on dogs that walk low to the ground.

Dog Jackets and Coats

Winter coats and jackets are for cold-weather use rather than rain protection. Fleece-lined styles trap body heat and work well for dry cold days. Heavier insulated coats handle more extreme temperatures. Short-coated breeds — greyhounds, whippets, chihuahuas, boxers — feel cold significantly faster than double-coated breeds and benefit most from outerwear. Northern breeds like huskies and malamutes typically don't need a coat even in genuine winter weather.

Dog Sweaters and Hoodies

Sweaters and hoodies are the indoor-outdoor middle ground — warm enough for chilly days but not built for rain or serious cold. Knit sweaters are the classic option. Fleece hoodies are softer and easier to get on and off. Both stretch to fit a range of body types, which matters because dog body proportions vary significantly across breeds — a deep-chested breed needs different sizing than a long-bodied one at the same weight.

Dog Costumes and Seasonal Apparel

Dog Costumes

Halloween costumes, novelty outfits, and character costumes. These are sized by weight and girth like regular dog clothing, but fit expectations are different — a costume doesn't need to be a perfect fit the way a raincoat does. Most costumes are worn for short periods for photos or events rather than extended outdoor use. Our range includes dinosaur costumes, lion mane wigs, and full-character outfits. For Halloween-specific options, check our Halloween collection.

Dog Pajamas

Dog pajamas — also called onesies — cover the full body and are popular for keeping dogs warm indoors overnight, protecting skin conditions or surgical sites from scratching, and keeping short-coated dogs comfortable in air-conditioned environments. They're also legitimately cute. Sizing requires measuring both the neck girth and the length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.

Dog Bandanas

Triangle bandanas tie around the neck or slide onto a collar. They're the lowest-commitment dog accessory — no sizing concerns, no getting the dog to cooperate with putting it on, and they work for everyday wear, photos, or themed events. We carry year-round styles as well as seasonal options including Christmas and birthday bandanas.

Dog Accessories

Dog Shoes and Boots

Dog shoes protect paws from hot pavement in summer, ice and road salt in winter, and rough terrain on hikes. Getting a dog to accept shoes takes patience — most dogs need several sessions of wearing them indoors before they'll walk normally outside. Sizing is based on paw width, not overall body size. Measure the widest part of the front paw with your dog standing on a piece of paper and trace around it.

Dog Hats and Sunglasses

Hats and dog sunglasses (goggles) serve both functional and novelty purposes. Goggles protect eyes from debris, wind, and UV light for dogs that ride in open vehicles or spend time in dusty environments. Hats provide some shade. Both require acclimation — don't expect a dog to immediately accept something on their head.

Dog Bathrobe and Bath Towels

Microfiber bath towels and drying robes absorb water significantly faster than standard towels. After a bath or a walk in the rain, a good drying towel cuts grooming time down considerably. Robes wrap around the body and stay on while the dog dries, which is practical if you have a dog that shakes water everywhere the moment you put down a regular towel.

How to Size Dog Clothing

Dog clothing sizing is not standardized across brands, so always check the specific size chart rather than going by S/M/L alone. The measurements you need: neck girth (around the base of the neck), chest girth (the widest point of the rib cage), and back length (from base of neck to base of tail). When in doubt between two sizes, go larger — most dog clothing has some adjustment range and a too-tight garment is more problematic than a slightly loose one.

Dog Apparel FAQs

Does my dog actually need a coat?

It depends on the breed, the dog's age and health, and the weather. Short-coated, small, lean, elderly, and very young dogs are more vulnerable to cold. If your dog shivers on walks, seeks warm spots constantly, or lifts their paws off cold ground, they'd benefit from outerwear. Double-coated northern breeds rarely need a coat — their undercoat does the job.

How do I get my dog used to wearing clothes?

Start with something simple and non-restrictive, like a bandana or a loose-fitting sweater. Let the dog sniff the item before putting it on. Put it on briefly, give treats and praise, then take it off before the dog starts to fuss. Gradually extend the time over multiple sessions. Never force it — a dog that associates clothing with stress will resist it every time.

Are dog raincoats actually waterproof?

Quality raincoats use waterproof-coated fabrics that repel water effectively. Over time and with washing, the waterproof coating can degrade — re-waterproofing spray can restore it. Seam-sealed coats handle heavy rain better than those with exposed seams. Check product descriptions for waterproof ratings if you're in a genuinely wet climate.

What's the difference between a dog costume and regular dog clothing?

Regular dog clothing is built for comfort, durability, and functional use over extended periods. Costumes are built for looks and short-term wear. The construction is typically lighter, the fit less precise, and the materials less durable. Costumes are fine for a few hours of wear — just check that nothing is tight around the neck, restricting breathing, or covering the eyes in a way that impairs vision.

Shop More Dog Supplies at Petspls

If you're dressing your dog for outdoor adventures, pair their new coat with the right walking gear from our dog harnesses and leashes collection. For grooming after wet walks, our dog grooming supplies cover brushes, drying tools, and bath accessories. And if you're putting together a birthday or holiday look, check out our dog birthday supplies and Christmas collection for seasonal accessories.