Most dogs, especially those with very thick coats don't really need much extra clothing. They have their own layering system.
For example, a double coated breed such as a Shih Tzu has a thick, soft, warm under coat and a long silky outer coat that can protect them in colder climates.
Terriers, such as a Cairn Terrier also have a thick wiry outer coat that sheds water and allows them to be outdoors even if wet damp weather and still feel dry and comfortable.
But some dogs do need extra protection. Many small breed dogs have one layer of hair. Although it might grow to be floor length as is the case with a Maltese, the soft, fine hair itself does not protect the dog in cold temperatures.
Let us not forget those hairless breeds such as the American Hairless, Chinese Crested or the Mexican Hairless. They might do fine in the tropics, but in a more temperate climate, they would feel the cold in the same way as you or I would.
Clothing for dogs can be essential for the comfort of pet dogs for many reasons. Here are just a few of the many reasons that some type of clothing may be necessary for man's best friend.
Climate
Rain, snow or extreme temperatures can be harmful and extremely uncomfortable to our pets. To protect them, some form of clothing is a must.
Dog Clothing works like an additional protective cover to help them feel content and enjoy themselves outdoors even in a snowstorm.
Allergies
Some people have allergies to dog dander and sneeze when that loose hair begins to fly around the house landing on you, your furniture, and your floor.
Clothing can reduce the amount of loose hair and help contain the dander. AND, if you are an allergy sufferer, it means you are likely to breathe easier.
A light weight doggie t-shirt or dress cannot eliminate shedding and dander, but it can make your life much easier.
Insects
Your dog can be bitten by insects, ticks, and fleas. In some cases, stings from bees, wasps, or hornets can be life threatening to a small dog.
Fleas are a major nuisance that most dog owners hate. Ticks carry disease. Most dog owners want to protect their little dogs, and clothing can help.
Clothing will not stop a swarm of angry wasps, but it will be much harder for them to bite and sting if they must first penetrate a layer of clothing.
Any pet recovering from surgery or illness is more susceptible to cold, and could use the extra layer.
If your pet is arthritic, an extra layer of clothing is an effective way to mitigate the aches and pains of this disease.
Some dog clothes might have just a decorative function and are more useful to the owners who like to stand out with their dogs, than to their pets. These include, for example, all kinds of dresses, t-shirts, hats and scarves. The only exception are the hairless dogs, because their skin is exposed to sunburn in the summer. For breeds like that, wearing a thin, breathable t-shirt in the summer can be quite beneficial.