How to Make Dog Coats & Sweaters

Taking care of man's best friend is a privilege enjoyed by dog owners everywhere. During cold months, coats and sweaters provide your pet with warmth and protection from the elements. Dog sweaters and coats can be purchased or made at home. An easy way to make a dog sweater is to start with a garment designed to be worn by a person. Simple alterations can change a human's sweater into a sweater for your dog.

Things You'll Need

  • Man's, woman's or child's sweater or sweatshirt
  • Tape measure
  • Marker
  • Scissors
  • Needle
  • Thread
  • Velcro
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose the appropriate garment. Sweaters and sweatshirts made for people make ideal sweaters for dogs. These garments come in various colors, fabrics, styles and sizes. Consider size, thickness of material and style when choosing the appropriate garment.

    • 2

      Determine the correct size by measuring the dog. Take measurements of the dog̵7;s head and neck to ensure the sweater's neck opening is large enough to slip easily over the animal's head. Measure the length of your pet's front legs to determine the ideal sleeve length. Measure the dog's belly to assure the sweater fits around the waist. Smaller dogs may need a child-sized garment.

    • 3

      Choose the style. Fleece sweaters make ideal coats due to their thickness and warmth. Garments with full-length zippers make good choices because they require little to no alterations. Turtlenecks often have too much material around the animal̵7;s neck and may not be tolerated by the dog. Plain sweatshirts are ideal because they are simple to alter.

    • 4

      Use the animal̵7;s measurements to determine the correct size of the sweater or coat. Measure the length of the sleeves, and use a marker to mark the sweater before cutting. Cut the arms at the marks to make the sleeves the correct length for the dog. Hem the edges to prevent the sweater from fraying and catching.

    • 5

      Decide whether to use the chosen garment as a pullover or to make it open like a coat. To make a coat, mark a straight line down the back of the sweater. Cut along the line to create an opening. Hem the edges. Attach Velcro to the open sides of the sweater to provide a way to secure the garment around the dog.

    • 6

      Add personal touches to customize the sweater or coat. Iron-on graphics, buttons, beads, bows, puffy paint and other items can be used.