You are viewing all 'Style entries.
|
|
While many people scoff at the idea of doggy attire, there are times when fashion serves a function. If you have a small-breed dog or short-coated dog of any breed, it may be a good idea to have it wear a jacket or coat on walks.
For dogs who tend not to like wearing clothes, a “horse blanket” style that attaches with Velcro at the chest and belly may be better-received than one with leg holes.
Because daytime hours are so short during the winter, consider purchasing a jacket that is bright in color, preferably with reflective strips (or you can purchase reflecting tape) to enhance visibility at night.
Casey Lomonaco owns Rewarding Behaviors Dog Training in Binghamton, NY.
|
|
|
|
Some people say their dogs wouldn’t be caught dead in a Halloween costume. Others just strap their pups into that NASCAR driver outfit and send them off to answer the door. How do dogs feel about costumes?
I have it on the best authority that, as long as the costume is comfortable and safe, almost all dogs really don’t mind what they wear. Did you know that dogs, who are capable of so many wonderful emotions like love and loyalty, are incapable of feeling embarrassment? You might blanch at that jumpsuit on Marlon Brando, your Rottie mix, but Marlon probably doesn’t care either way. So it’s up to you. His ego can take it, and his natural sociability might be enhanced by being part of the act.
Helen Fazio and her dog, Raja, are world travelers. Click here to visit their blog, and click here to follow them on Twitter.
|
|
|
|
Keeping the scene scenic does not have to be a big production. Successful dog photos do not require the dog to sit front and center, staring at the camera. Nevertheless, it does make the pictures more usable if you consider the environment. Maybe puppy looks great, but have you also included a dusty dinner roll lying under the couch? If you plan to shoot for success, don’t worry about the dog: dogs are naturals in front of the camera. But check out the scene and adjust random items out of camera range.
Helen Fazio and her dog Raja are world travelers. Click here to visit their blog, and click here to follow them on Twitter. |
|
|
When it comes to dog clothes, keep comfort and climate in mind. Dogs have fur and they shouldn’t wear dresses on the hottest summer days. In super high temps, go for a stylish bow or a microcrystal cooling bandanna; maybe a well-cut sun visor. When the cooler weather of fall comes around, there will be plenty of crisp days where a “back to school” dress or bad boy tee will take away the chill and brighten the fading season. Depending on your winters, sweaters and parkas might be useful. Sometimes a shirt inside helps when floors are chilly and you live in the snow belt. Spring brings opportunities for rainwear and puddle boots. Combining comfort and style will make your dog and yourself both happy at the same time.
Helen Fazio and her dog Raja are world travelers. Click here to visit their blog, and click here to follow them on Twitter. |
|
|
Just as a light stick on a cord makes trick-or-treating children more visible at night, a disposable, inexpensive light stick taped to a dog’s collar, harness or costume makes your dog visible to passing cars as he walks beside you.
The sun will set at roughly 6 p.m. on October 31, 2009. Even though Halloween will coincide with a bright full moon, cloud cover or even tall buildings and trees could make the roadway dark. Protect your costumed doggy by making him glow as he parades about.
Helen Fazio and her dog Raja are world travelers. Click here to visit their blog, and click here to follow them on Twitter. |
|
|
|
Many dogs do therapy work do it in stylish clothing. Seriously.
While some therapy dog organizations provide a logo sash or vest, many do not. Owners who escort therapy dogs on their rounds to hospitals, nursing homes and school reading programs report that wearing a cute tee shirt, vest or doggie dress helps the canine therapist leap the gap toward people who may feel unconfident or distressed. Clothing makes the therapy dog seem more empathetic and approachable.
Helen Fazio and her dog Raja are world travelers. Click here to visit their blog, click here to follow them on Twitter. |
|
|
|
Most of the sled dogs race in boots. But what about the urban dogs who walk in slush and mush, the trail dogs who walk on rocks and grit, the Shih Tzus with feet like brooms and the Min Pins with tiny delicate feet?
Yes, all dogs might need boots. Boots – functional and well-fitted – can protect the pads and save the paws. (Never use boots in heat as dogs need to sweat through their pads.)
Helen Fazio and her dog Raja are world travelers. Click here to visit their blog, click here to follow them on Twitter. |
|
|
|
Dogs have fur don’t they? Yes, but not all fur is created for keeping warm in sustained winter cold. Huskies and Eskimo dogs have special fur that traps warm air. They frolic happily in the coldest weather. Other dogs that do not have this insulation – slim dogs, small dogs, puppies and older dogs can get cold in winter. A few stylish, well-fitting coats and sweaters make getting out and about more comfortable and sustain good winter health for many dogs.
Helen Fazio and her dog Raja are world travelers. Click here to visit their blog, click here to follow them on Twitter. |
|
|
|
Girls can wear longer cut sweaters and tee shirts, but boys will not be comfortable unless their sweaters and tees are cut up on the tummy to mid chest. Many manufacturers pay attention to this distinction, but many do not. When you shop, you’ll have to consider gender, or Brandon will end up wet, cold and embarrassed after his walk while Brandy is styling pretty in her well cut clothes.
Helen Fazio and her dog Raja are world travelers. Click here to visit their blog, click here to follow them on Twitter. |
|
|
|
For total head-turning style on Earth Day and all year round, check out Chi Wow Wow’s brand of vintage clothing and carriers. Each tee and hoodie is made from a recycled vintage t-shirt re-purposed into super cool dog fashions. What a creative and affordable way to make something old new again. Love it! www.chiwowwow.com |
