Dec 24, 2018 3 min read

Humans aren’t the only ones sporting festive fashions for the Christmas season.

It’s a holly, jolly pawliday – er, holiday – for dogs, too, and a growing number of people are buying seasonal attire, particularly novelty Christmas outfits, for their four-legged friends.

“Year to year, we have seen an increase in the amount pet owners are spending on their pets,” said Taylor Chamberlain, merchandise manager for Petco. “(Dogs) aren’t just pets, they are truly an extension of our families.”

Sharon Sturtevant agrees.

Sturtevant, of East Finley Township, and her Weimaraner, Tyche, snuggle up in matching plaid pajamas during the winter months.

“In the winter, we like to keep her warm,” said Sturtevant, noting Weimaraners are short-haired dogs, and 8-year-old Tyche gets cold outdoors during the snowy, frigid winter months.

“She’s my baby girl,” said Sturtevant. “She’s the best dog I’ve ever had.”

Sturtevant said she got the idea to purchase the sleepwear after she saw owners and their canines wearing matching pajamas on a Weimaraner Facebook page, and she ordered a set from JC Penney.

Pet clothing companies offer a variety of options, including headpieces with antlers and Christmas tree designs, festive bow ties and dresses, light-up collars, and ugly Christmas sweaters.

So, why have pet parents embraced dressing their fur babies in Christmas and Hanukkah outfits?

The holidays, Chamberlain said, are about creating memories with loved ones, and pets are no exception.

“Now more than ever, our pets are taking part in the holiday festivities, gift-giving and traditions, which often include dressing up. Dressing up our pets is a way to include them in the festivities, and ultimately strengthen our bond with them,” said Chamberlain. “Our pets are an extension of ourselves, so we want to ensure they only get the best.”

Brenda Rohaley of Washington said her 3-month-old Labrador retriever mix, Sadie, loves to dress up.

Sadie’s expanding wardrobe includes five Christmas sweaters, and Rohaley plans to pick up more outfits for the growing canine.

Rohaley adopted Sadie from the state of Indiana as a rescue puppy, and put sweaters on her from the time she brought Sadie home.

“I think it comforted her in the beginning,” said Rohaley. “Now, she just loves to have them on. She gets excited.”

Keep in mind, though, that pets signal what they’re feeling by using their ears, tails and body position, so avoid covering those areas with restrictive clothing. And look out for any parts of the costume that might cause choking.

“Whether protective clothing or festive outfits, it’s important to select something that won’t restrict their sight, breathing, movement or ability to bark or meow. Once you have the right outfit, introduce it to your pet at a slow pace,” said Chamberlain.

Rohaley said she plans to shop for more winter apparel for Sadie to get her through the upcoming winter season.

“She’s a little angel. I enjoy shopping for her,” said Rohaley. “She completes our family.”