Britain's chilly and wet winter weather has kicked off a canine fashion revolution, with dog owners clamoring for stylish coats for their four-legged friends. From luxury brands like Pawelier to budget-friendly options from high-street retailers like John Lewis, the demand for dog clothing is soaring.
Designers are cashing in on the trend, with some even offering matching owner-coat sets. "Dogs have become the ultimate fashion icons," says Oli Port, editor-in-chief and founder of Dogue magazine. Brands like Burberry and Louis Vuitton have featured dogs in their advertising campaigns, while some dogs have even become social media influencers.
The UK's cold and wet weather is cited as a major driver behind the trend, with sales increasing by 33% at John Lewis this year alone. Luxury pet accessories shop Pawelier has reported bestsellers include a £135 four-legged puffer coat and a reversible down-filled jumpsuit in cornflower blue and cappuccino brown.
However, not all dogs need winter coats, according to Julian Hoad, president of the British Small Animal Veterinary Association. Dogs with thin coats or short legs may struggle in cold weather, while breeds like malamutes and German shepherds can handle chilly temperatures due to their thick fur coats.
The trend is also driven by the growing bond between dogs and their owners, who increasingly consider them as part of the family. "As young people are having fewer children, dogs are getting closer to being family members who understand you," says Louise Nindi, co-founder of Mutts dog lifestyle store.
While some may see the trend as unnecessary, Port argues that just like human children, dogs need protection from cold weather without compromising their comfort. "Most of the time dogs are naked, but as they're participating more in our lives, they need clothes," he says.
Designers are cashing in on the trend, with some even offering matching owner-coat sets. "Dogs have become the ultimate fashion icons," says Oli Port, editor-in-chief and founder of Dogue magazine. Brands like Burberry and Louis Vuitton have featured dogs in their advertising campaigns, while some dogs have even become social media influencers.
The UK's cold and wet weather is cited as a major driver behind the trend, with sales increasing by 33% at John Lewis this year alone. Luxury pet accessories shop Pawelier has reported bestsellers include a £135 four-legged puffer coat and a reversible down-filled jumpsuit in cornflower blue and cappuccino brown.
However, not all dogs need winter coats, according to Julian Hoad, president of the British Small Animal Veterinary Association. Dogs with thin coats or short legs may struggle in cold weather, while breeds like malamutes and German shepherds can handle chilly temperatures due to their thick fur coats.
The trend is also driven by the growing bond between dogs and their owners, who increasingly consider them as part of the family. "As young people are having fewer children, dogs are getting closer to being family members who understand you," says Louise Nindi, co-founder of Mutts dog lifestyle store.
While some may see the trend as unnecessary, Port argues that just like human children, dogs need protection from cold weather without compromising their comfort. "Most of the time dogs are naked, but as they're participating more in our lives, they need clothes," he says.