Little Dogma Resources :: How to Shop for Dogs

If you're new to the world of dog shopping it can be a little overwhelming to try and find the right product and size for your canine companion. Here at LittleDogma.com we want to make it as easy as possible for you to find the perfect item, so we've put together this handy buying guide. Remember, all of the items that we sell are Made in The USA, organic, environmentally friendly, facilitate empowerment, or fund positive change. So when you find that perfect sweater, you can buy it with confidence.

Sizing your Dog

Most of the products on our site indicate the maximum measurement in inches that each size will fit (see this item for an example), but that information isn't helpful if you don't know your dog's size. The first thing you should do before starting to shop is to measure your dog in three key places:

1. Measure the dog's neck circumference with a tape measure. Be sure to leave enough room to allow your dog to move comfortably. 
2. Measure the dog's chest circumference just behind the front legs. This is often the most important measurement to ensure a proper fit for shirts, coats and harnesses.
3. Measure the length of your dog's back from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. This will help determine if a coat or sweater will cover them sufficiently.

When in doubt, go for a size that's an inch or two too large rather than too small. Typically clothes that are slightly too big will be more comfortable for pets than clothes that are tight and restrict their movements. LittleDogma.com also helps guide your purchases by noting the general weight range that each size will fit. This can be particularly helpful if you're shopping for a dog gift and don't know the dog's precise measurements.

Products for dogs of all sizes

We've all "oohed" and "aahed" at the cute dogs out walking in their sweaters or t-shirts, but did you know that dressing your small canine companion can make them more comfortable as well as more fashionable?

Many small dogs, especially short-haired breeds like chihuahuas, lack a winter undercoat to keep them warm during outdoor exercise and potty trips. As a result they need a little help maintaining their body temperature. A fuzzy hoodie or sweater on a particularly cold day can help keep your little pup comfortable; try an organic cotton t-shirt on days that are just slightly chilly or when your dog is shivering indoors.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends a coat or sweater with a high collar, such as a turtleneck, for smaller animals in general and short-haired breeds in particular. Try our pink windbreaker . A coat that extends from the base of the tail to the belly is ideal.

Keeping little dogs comfortable outdoors is also crucial for house training, as they will be more likely to alert you to their need to go out if they know they will be comfortable in the weather. Check out the ASPCA website for more information on living happily with your small dog.

While you're outdoors, be sure that you use a harness instead of a traditional leash on your little dog. These types of leads are gentler on the fragile windpipes of smaller pets. LittleDogma.com offers several varieties of harnesses, all made in the USA.

After the excursion don't forget to check your pup's feet for ice, snow, rocks or other foreign objects. If they lick ice or snow off their feet pets can ingest chemicals and become ill, and rocks will be source of discomfort and perhaps injury, especially in the small paws of little dogs. Try our Paw Conditioning treatment to protect paws from daily wear and tear.

Medium dogs may or may not require clothes to stay warm all year, depending on their climate. A lighter garment like a polo can be a good choice, and having a fuzzy hoodie or sweater on hand will ensure comfort in case of unforeseen cold weather. Pay attention to your dog and watch for signs of chill both indoors and out.

Larger dogs are less likely to need clothing in the summer months, but coats and sweaters will be a welcome winter staple. Many of our hoodies, like the Angel hoodie come in extra large sizes to accommodate bigger dogs. Some garments, however, aren't designed for dogs above a certain size, so be sure to check the availability for your chosen items before checking out.

Shopping for grooming products

Making time to groom your dog yourself can help you bond with your pet and save money at the same time. We offer a wide variety of eco-friendly grooming products that are good for your pet's health and the planet. Check out our selection here.

Summer months can dry out pets' skin just like ours, so try Fur Conditioner with Sunscreen. Insect repellent can also help product your dog during outdoor excursions.

Use Paw Conditioner in the winter time to keep your dog's paws clean after snowy walks. Remember that if dogs try to lick their paws clean after a snowy walk they can ingest harmful chemicals that have been put out to melt the snow, so be sure you clean their paws thoroughly.

For more on dog grooming basics visit http://dogs.wtnh.com/Happy/dog_grooming/index.html

Harnesses v. Collars

When walking your dog, should you use a harness or a collar to attach the leash? This is a decision each pet owner must reach on their own, but at LittleDogma.com we sell harnesses rather than collars due to the sensitive nature of small dogs' throats. Even if the collar isn't a choke collar, it's alarmingly easy to damage your pet's neck.

We think harnesses are definitely preferably for small dogs, and many owners prefer using them with medium and larger dogs as well to avoid injury to the trachea if the dog pulls on the lead. Harnesses can also give more control to the owner when walking the dog.

We offer a wide variety of harnesses, many in sizes going up to 20" or more (chest measurement). Here are some samples:

- Metallic harnesses in multiple colors
- Animal Print Step in Harness
- For harnesses that match all your dog's outfits, check out this page.

For tips on buying gifts for dogs, please check out our gift giving guide. If you have suggestions on other resources you'd like us to add to this section, please feel free to contact us.