Why Dogs Hate Coats

Jill Bartlett Author

Jul 02, 2024 |

Dogs hate coats that don't fit. That's why mastering the fit and ensuring it stays snug with Velcro can transform dressing time into a breeze.

Why Do Dogs Hate Wearing Coats? And How Proper Fit and Velcro Can Help

Have you ever tried putting a coat on your dog, only to be met with resistance, frustration, and maybe even a little bit of puppy drama? You're not alone. Many dogs seem to dislike wearing coats, and there are a few common reasons why. But don’t worry, I’ve got some tips on how proper fit and Velcro can make a world of difference.

The Common Gripes

Comfort Issues: If a coat doesn’t fit well, it can be uncomfortable for your dog. Imagine wearing a tight shirt or a jacket that’s too big—you wouldn’t like it either.

Restricted Movement: Dogs love to run, jump, and play. If a coat limits their movement, they’re not going to be happy about it.

Weight and Bulkiness: A heavy or bulky coat that doesn't fit properly can be a burden for your dog, making them feel weighed down and awkward.

Irritation and Chafing: Some materials can irritate your dog’s skin, causing chafing and discomfort, especially if the coat rubs in the wrong places.

How Proper Fit and Velcro Make a Difference

Enhanced Comfort

A well-fitting coat can make your dog feel like they’re not wearing anything at all. When a coat is tailored to your dog’s size and shape, it sits comfortably against their body without pinching or squeezing. Proper measuring is key here. Make sure to measure your dog's chest, neck, and length accurately to get the best fit. You can download a free workbook and guide here.

Ease of Movement

A properly fitted coat allows your dog to move freely. They can run, jump, and play without feeling restricted. Look for designs that are specifically made to accommodate your dog’s natural movements.

Adjustable Fit

One of the best things about Velcro closures is their adjustability. You can easily tweak the fit to make sure the coat isn’t too tight or too loose, ensuring your dog stays comfortable.

Reduced Bulkiness

Velcro closures tend to be lighter and less bulky compared to other fastenings such as buttons or zippers. This means your dog won’t feel weighed down, and the coat won’t get in their way.

Quick and Easy Closure

Velcro makes putting on and taking off the coat a breeze. This can reduce the stress for both you and your dog during coat time, turning it into a quick and painless process.

Minimized Irritation

Velcro closures, when properly placed, can help avoid the areas that might cause chafing or irritation. Always place the rough side of the Velcro (hook) on the outside of your coat and the soft side (loop) on the inside. This ensures the rough side won't be rubbing against your dog's skin.

Secure Fastening

One of the biggest concerns with dog coats is that they might come loose or fall off during playtime. Velcro provides a secure fastening that keeps the coat in place, so your dog can enjoy their activities without you constantly adjusting their outfit.

Accommodates Growth and Changes in Size

Dogs can change size due to growth, weight loss, or gain. Velcro closures make it easy to adjust the coat as needed, ensuring a comfortable fit no matter what changes occur.

Conclusion

Understanding why your dog might hate wearing coats is the first step in making the experience better for both of you. With a properly fitted coat and the magic of velcro closures, you can address many of the common issues that make dogs dislike coats. Your pup will be more comfortable, happier, and more willing to wear their coat when the weather calls for it. So if you are considering making a coat for your dog, keep these tips in mind.

To help you get started, I’ve written two tutorials on how to add Velcro to your dog coats. One is a quick guide, and the other is a more in-depth, step-by-step process. Both include videos showing the process. 

Interested in learning how to sew custom-fit dog wear? Get started by downloading my free workbook for a step-by-step guide to measuring your dog. All my patterns include instructions on how to use these measurements to create customized dog wear for your ideal fit.

Categories: : Sewing