Expand His Wardrobe

The next step is to put your dog in a T-shirt or sweater, which will require putting his head through a neck hole. Begin by treating your dog for staying still while you reach the shirt toward him. Use one hand to pull the neck hole over the dog's nose and head while you continue to treat out of your other hand. After a few seconds, remove the shirt and try again. Eventually, work on putting the paws through the shirt, rewarding and praising your dog with each step.

To get your pet used to a hat, start with something easy, such as a barrette or hair clip. Place the item on his fur and reward him for remaining calm. You can also reward your pet for staying still as you drape the hat on his head without fastening it. As long as your pet remains comfortable, fasten the hat and focus his attention on something else, such as being rewarded for heeling at your side or doing a down. Keep the hat on for only short periods to begin with and remove before there are any signs of struggle.

Do What's Best for Your Dog

Laid-back pooches may adjust with very little persuasion, while more sensitive dogs may take a longer time to adjust to wearing clothing. The experience should be enjoyable for your dog and should never cause him to be afraid or uncomfortable. If you ever sense your dog becoming stressed or afraid, take a break and come back and start your training at an easier level, such as rewarding simply for sniffing the outfit when it's lying on the floor. The dog's well-being should always be your first concern. For some dogs, the cost of wearing a sweater or hat may be greater than the benefit, which means clothes may not be the best option for that particular pet.

Would you ever put clothes on your pet? Tell us in the comments below.