Halloween is coming up quick! Fido often likes celebrating the holidays with his humans, and he’s definitely gotten in on the fun of dressing up. Man’s Best Friend looks super cute in costume! He’s been a dinosaur, a cheeseburger, and all sorts of superheros. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your pup’s getup. A Spring Hill, TN vet discusses doggy costumes in this article.

Fit

First and foremost, make sure that your canine friend’s outfit fits him properly. It shouldn’t be too loose or too tight, and it shouldn’t restrict his movements. Take your furry pal’s measurements before you buy anything. If you’re headed to a brick-and-mortar store, get Fido’s measurements before you head out, and take them with you. (Tip: this is good information to keep on your phone.) You’ll also need to make sure that your pet’s costume doesn’t restrict his vision.

Material

Some dogs can overheat very quickly in clothing. Pooches with double coats, such as huskies and Golden Retrievers, are often very uncomfortable in clothes. If your canine companion has thick fur, choose a smaller piece, such as a bandana, bow tie, or, if your four-legged friend will tolerate it, a small hat. Pups with thin coats, on the other hand, may enjoy some extra protection against chilly weather. Make sure that Fido’s outfit isn’t flammable!

Trappings

Don’t pick anything that has small parts, such as buttons, that your pooch may be tempted to chew. That could be extremely dangerous! It’s also best to skip anything with a zipper. These can get caught in your pup’s fur, which could cause painful cuts. Things like wings, antlers, legs, or other attachments also have the potential for getting stuck on things. You definitely don’t want that! As far as safety goes, you’ll probably find that things made specifically for dogs are going to be your best bet. These are made with Fido’s comfort and safety in mind.

Personality

Have some fun with your canine buddy’s outfit! A stoic Bulldog may look adorable in a nurse outfit, while a Chihuahua may look super cute dressed up as a werewolf. Just don’t force your furry friend to wear a costume if he seems uncomfortable. Happy Halloween! Please contact us with any questions or concerns about your dog’s health or care. As your Spring Hill, TN pet hospital, we’re here to help!