Homemade T-Shirts for Dogs

Although most dogs don't like wearing clothes, and get out of them if they can, dog clothes make even the most scroungy puppy look snappy and dapper. Old or outgrown T-shits are easily turned into clothes for a dog by making a couple of quick alterations and adding some fun design elements. There are many creative ways to dress up your dog in style using old or new T-shirts.

  1. Fittings and Alterations

    • Most dogs need you to cut open and expand the collar of the T-shirt for it to fit. Use children's size T-shirts for most small and medium-sized dogs, and adult T-shirts only on very large dogs. The T-shirt should fit snug so it does not catch on things and is hard to slip off. You can also cut off the sleeves of the T-shirt to give the dog a tight-fitting vest that does not constrict his foreleg movement.

    Customized T-shirts

    • Use acrylic paints to add color, patterns and artwork to the T-shirt. Buying iron-on patches allows you to add professional design elements to your homemade dog T-shirt. Beads and other sewn-on attachments add color, dazzle and fashion to your dogs homemade T-shirt and garner admiration from onlookers when out walking. Tie-dyed T-shirts, made by wrapping the shirt in rubber bands and soaking in light dyes, also make a fashion statement when worn by dogs.

    Lettering

    • Use colored markers, stencils and iron-on lettering to add words to the T-shirt. Write the dog's name and contact information so, if lost, he can be returned. Put catchy and funny phrases like "King of the Castle" or "Rub my Belly for Good Luck" on the shirt. Numbers and letters together can be used to turn the T-shirt into a sports jersey that promotes your favorite local team.

    Wearing the Shirt

    • Although most dogs don't like clothing, you can train your dog to wear it peacefully by using a reward system. Simply feed the dog a treat when you put on the T-shirt, and give him another when you remove the shirt. If the dog removes the shirt on his own, scold him and withhold the final treat. The dog soon learns that if he wants the second treat he has to wear the T-shirt for the duration of time you wish.