The Best Dog Costumes
Whether you're dressing your dog up for a costume party or seasonal event, costumes are a great way to have fun with your pet. From superheroes to cowboys, there's no shortage of adorable ways to disguise your pup. Plus, dressing up your dog gives them a chance to break out of their day-to-day routine. With so many costumes available, choosing the best one for your pet isn't always an easy task. With that in mind, we've rounded up some of the best dog costumes on the market.
What to Look For
It’s important to keep the following questions in mind while searching for the best costumes for your pup: Does it allow your dog to move freely? Is it comfortable? Does it have any dangling pieces your dog could chew off? Our favorite was the bat wings costume from Strangefly because it’s easy to put on and stays firmly in place. Our runner-up was the cowboy rider costume from Delifur, which is made of durable fabric and turns your dog into a horse. Read on to discover the rest of our picks and find the right costume for your pooch.
Strangefly Bat Wings Dog Costume
Give your furry friend their wings with this adorable bat costume from Strangefly. This simple costume is an excellent choice for dogs that aren’t comfortable in costumes that cover large parts of their body. Your dog will be able to move freely and comfortably while wearing it. Plus, its high-quality construction and durability make it a smart option for rambunctious dogs.
Pros:
- We found this costume was highly adjustable, fitting puppies as well as larger dogs.
- Since this is a minimalist costume, it’s easy to mix and match it with other pieces of clothing to create a unique outfit.
Cons:
- The velcro doesn’t come securely attached to the straps.
Delifur Cowboy Rider Dog Costume
Your dog will be the center of attention when wearing this cowboy rider costume from Delifur. This costume has everything your pup needs to saddle up for a trip through the wild wild west. Moreover, it’s one of the easiest costumes for your pet to wear and gives them plenty of room to move around without interference.
Pros:
- We love that the costume stays in place once it’s strapped on, so there’s no need to worry about it slipping off while your pup runs around.
- The cowboy sitting on top of the costume waves his hat around anytime your dog moves, providing entertainment to anyone watching.
Cons:
- Making the cowboy sit up straight on some dog breeds might be tricky.
Tomsenn Lion Mane Dog Costume
Hear me roar
Transform your dog into one of nature’s most regal creatures with this lion mane costume from Tomsenn. The costume is designed for medium and large-sized dogs and doesn’t limit their movement. Don’t be surprised if this realistic-looking costume fools a few passersby when you take your furry friend for a walk while wearing it.
Pros:
- We especially liked that this costume works with any large animals, not just dogs, making it a versatile choice for homes with multiple pets.
- It’s easy to dress dogs up in this costume, and if they don’t like having their ears covered, it’s easy to place it around their neck instead.
Cons:
- Dogs can remove it easily.
Rubie’s DC Comics Dog Costume
Flying high
Your supergirl will be ready to save the world when you dress her up in this DC Comics costume from Rubie’s. This costume gives your furry friend what they need to make a statement at any party or event when they step in as a super dog wearing a cape. The flowing costume won’t constrict your pup’s movement and comes in multiple sizes, so you’re sure to find one that’s right for your dog.
Pros:
- We were impressed by the quality of this costume’s material; it’s durable yet lightweight and comfortable for dogs to wear.
- This costume has velcro straps that hold it securely in place and stretch material for a snug fit.
Cons:
- The costume runs small, so you may need to order a size up.
Mogoko Blue Shark Dog Costume
This shark dog costume from Mogoko is an excellent option for dressing up your pup when the temperatures begin to drop. The costume features velvet and fleece layers to help keep your furry friend warm when it’s cold outside. Its fabric is breathable, reducing the chance that your pup will overheat while wearing this costume. That’s not all; the funny shark hood is sure to get a few laughs wherever your dog goes.
Pros:
- We were thrilled by how durable this costume was and that it didn’t fray even after multiple uses and several washes.
- The costume is adjustable and has elastic band leg holes, allowing dogs to move freely while wearing it.
Cons:
- It’s not the best choice for dogs that don’t like being covered up.
Are costumes safe for dogs?
A safe costume for your dog won’t constrict their breathing or limit their freedom of movement. Your dog should also be able to see clearly and bark while wearing the costume. Be sure to read the labels on the costumes you’re considering to ensure they’re made from non-toxic materials. Before you debut your dog in their new outfit, you’ll want to try it on your pup a few times to make sure they’re comfortable wearing it. If you find your pet doesn’t like costumes, don’t force it. Instead, let them wear a bandana, collar, or bowtie.
Do dogs like to wear costumes?
Every dog has a unique personality, so what works for one may not work for another. It usually won’t be hard to tell if your dog dislikes a particular piece of clothing. If your dog bites at the outfit, tries to take it off, or looks uncomfortable, it’s safe to say they don’t like what they’re wearing. Dogs communicate through body language, so pay close attention to what they’re saying while wearing the costume.
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