The Littlest Pilgrim

Yu…um! Thanksgiving is almost here. Hard to believe the way the year is zooming by. Seems to me each year goes by faster and faster.  So like the pilgrims and puritans who celebrated the good harvest and their blessings from the previous year at Plymouth Rock back in 1621, I think it’s important for us to stop, breathe and notice where we are, what we have gratitude for and say a prayer for our own blessings. One sure blessing in my life is little Sophie, my baby girl pup. I’m sure you all feel the same way about your dogs, cats or other creatures who share your homes and your lives. With those blessings in mind, let’s take a look at how to include our furry friends in our Thanksgiving celebration through great holiday dog outfits, toys, treats…in other words, just plain fun!

Thanksgiving-Themed Dog Toys

Fuzzy Plush Turkey Toy

This soft plush toy by OoMaLoo is made of strong polyester yarn with an industrial strength squeaker inside, made from non-toxic material. The yarn fibers make the toy fuzzy and fun for the dog. I know Sophie loves these toys. I guess the fibers feel good to her. And while this toy is strong and does come in two sizes, Puprwear advises that overly rough play can damage the toy. That’s why I would recommend this toy for medium and small-sized dogs and ones that aren’t extremely aggressive in their play with toys. Machine washable, cold water, gentle cycle. Air dry.

Plush Turkey Toy

Where: Puprwear.com

Dimensions: Medium (5″); Large (7″)

Prices: Medium-$13.95; Large-$17.45

Grriggles Goofy Gobbler Turkey Toy

This multi-purposed toy can be a table centerpiece you can give to your dog once Thanksgiving dinner is done. Made of soft, plush corduroy, the Goofy Gobbler is squeaker fun! Machine washable, dryer safe.

Grriggles the Turkey Toy

Where: Amazon.com

Dimensions: 12″ x 7.5″ x 6″

Price: $17.48 reduced from $17.99

Thanksgiving Toy and Treat Dog Gift Basket

For the pampered pup who has everything, this gift basket is the dog’s bollocks, the cat’s meow, the creme de la creme. Chock full of scrumptious gourmet treats and fun toys, your doggy’s eyes will sparkle and his tail will wag madly when you present this special gift. Included are: a small bottle of Yappy Hour Vineyards Dog Wine, a plush turkey leg squeaker toy, a turkey squeeze-me latex toy that has features that extend or wave when squeezed (Sophie loves loves these kinds of toys!), a Thanksgiving Turkey jar with sweet potato dog treats-yum!, a box of four decorated gourmet dog cookies including apples, a pumpkin and a turkey and all in a lovely brown wicker basket with a handwritten card. The gift basket will be wrapped in festive cello with bows and ribbons. The ultimate!

Thanksgiving Toy Treat Gift Basket

Where: BitchNewYork.com

Price: $105.00

Thanksgiving-Theme Dog Clothes

Thanksgiving Turkey Dog Bandana

Thanksgiving Dog Bandana

This adorable bandana is made in the USA from 100% cotton. It is machine washable and hang to dry. It comes in sizes. The coloring lends itself best to brown dogs, light and dark, and white dogs.

Where: Puprwear.com

Sizing: XS – XL (size chart on landing page of item)

Price: $10.95-$14.95 depending on size.

Here is an alternate bandana with colors that will work well on a black or white dog.

Black Thanksgiving Bandana

Couture Pumpkin at Thanksgiving Dress

This is a beautiful dress, truly special. The attention to detailing is extensive. The materials are of a very fine quality. Made from high quality 21-wale corduroy which is both very soft and light, the Couture Pumpkin features an embroidered pumpkin applique on the skirt, a jacquard ribbon at the waist with feature bows and a lovely scalloped trim at the bodice and collar. The coat closes with

Couture Pumpkin Dress

hook and loop velcro at the front and around the tummy. This piece is an attention getter.

Where: PoshPuppyBoutique.com

Sizing: XXS – M (Size chart on landing page of item). They will do a custom-made coat for an extra charge.

Price: $220.00 (they will free ship this item, as well)

Save the Turkey Tank

Save the Turkey Tank

This is a cutie pie tank for small dogs, up to 18 lbs. Made in the USA, this piece features brown and white gingham around the shoulders, a felt turkey embroidered applique on the back, bright orange trim around the armholes, neck and back edge and contrasting green stitching to match the applique. Very nicely done.  Comes in many sizes. Machine washable, lay flat to dry. BitchNewYork suggests to measure your dog carefully as this is a non-returnable item

Where: BitchNewYork.com

Sizing: XXS – XL (size chart available on landing page of item)

Price: $44.00

Autumn Splendor Hair Bow

This is a beautiful plaid ribbon bow barrette with the rich colors of fall in rusts, golds and browns. The ribbon is treated so it’s stiffer and will last. Sitting atop the ribbon is a lovely rust and brown leaf ornament. Comes with either a french clip attachment or double latex bands. The french clip, which I like better; I think it’s easier to get on and off and won’t break like the bands can, is $2.00 more, but it’s worth it. A great way to accessorize for the dog who won’t wear clothes or to finish off a great outfit. And these hair bows are great on kids of all ages.

Autumn Splendor Hair Bow

Where: PoshPuppyBoutique.com

Dimensions: 1.75″ long. Ribbon is 5/8″ wide.

Price: $7.00

Keep Calm and Gobble On Hair Bow

Keep Calm and Gobble On Hair Bow

I love this bow. Very funny. Great colors. Sage green, ivory, browns with a great message ornament atop the ribbon. This ribbon is also stiffened for longer wear. This hair bow also comes with either a french clip or double latex bands option.

Where: PoshPuppyBoutique.com

Dimensions: 1.75″long. Ribbon is 7/8″ wide.

Price: $7.00

Summary

I hope these suggestions for holiday dog outfits, accessories, treats and toys for your fur friends is helpful in letting you know some of what is out there and in steering you in the right direction. I also hope you will give me feedback on what’s here, if you liked it and if you didn’t and how I can make it a better experience for you. Wishing all of you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving holiday. In the midst of the planning, let’s remember to stop and take a moment to give thanks for how blessed we are.

Stay tuned for Part 3 of our Best Holiday Dog Outfits…Christmas. It will be a challenge to choose just a few of what promises to be a cornucopia of riches in Christmas fashion of all kinds!

The Hanukkah Hat

The holidays are coming, complete with the sequins, glitter and glamour of holiday fashion. While we may be dressing up for celebrating, let’s not leave our pups out of the fun. There are great ways to include them in the spirit of the season. In this three part series – Hanukkah, Thanksgiving, Christmas – we will make it really easy to find the best holiday dog clothes, accessories and toys, that fit the bill for adorable and satisfies all budgets. Remember, preparation is key so let’s not delay! Hanukkah is up first, as it’s less than one month away, starting November 27.

A Little Bit of History

Hanukkah is sometimes called the Jewish Christmas, but it actually is completely different. It is an older holiday than Christmas and it is celebrating the triumph of faith over military might. Hanukkah is the Festival of Lights. It is called that because it is honoring and remembering when a band of rebel Israelites called the Maccabees, rose up and fought against their invaders who, under penalty of death, prohibited the Israelites from studying their holy texts and performing important rituals.  They had defiled their temple and ordered the Jews to worship other G-ds. The Maccabees defeated the invaders and reclaimed their Temple. However, the Eternal Flame in the Temple’s menorah, snuffed out by the invaders, had to be lit once again. But it took 8 days to prepare the special oil needed and they only had enough oil for one day. Calling upon faith, they decided to light the menorah anyway and that’s when a miracle occurred. Each night, the jug of oil would refill itself with just enough oil to burn for one more day.  But it did this for 7 days, the time it took for new oil to be made. That is why there are 8 days of Hanukkah, why it is called the Festival of Lights and why it teaches us that faith, above all else, can create miracles.

Hanukkah-Themed Toys

There are lots of great Hanukkah-themed toys to choose from. Here are some of my favorites, both for comfort, durability and quality. For those of you interested in this one-of-a-kind yarmulke or traditional Jewish prayer cap, it is available at PoshPuppyBoutique.com.

 Dreidel Hanukkah Plush Singing Toy

The Dreidel Toy

This toy has gotten rave customer reviews for being a big hit with the dogs and owners. It sings the Hanukkah staple “Dreidel Dreidel Dreidel,” and fans of this toy say their kids or parents sing along so it becomes a toy that also brings the family together. One customer says it became her dog’s favorite toy, one he wouldn’t let out of his sight. It’s a soft and cuddly plush.

Where: Amazon.com

Dimensions: 6.5″ high x 3.5″ wide

Price: $16.97

I would recommend this toy with two potential drawbacks. The song may get on one’s nerves after a while, so you might want to put it away until next Hanukkah. And, I would not recommend this for large dogs as the size is not big enough and they could choke.

Kosher Dog Bones Plush Toy

Kosher Bones

This adorable plush bone comes in three sizes and is made of polyester plush and fill with a rubber squeaker secured inside the toy. A fun gift for your dog.

Where: BitchNewYork

Dimensions:

Small: 4″ x 2″

Medium: 5.5″ x 3″

Large: 7″ x 5″

Price: $10-11.00, depending on size

Hanukkah  Gelt Plush Toy

What kid doesn’t love receiving the traditional Hanukkah gelt prize money?  Your doggy will love it too with these cute toys that come in three sizes, so large and small can

Hanukkah Gelt Toys

enjoy. I love the whimsy and cleverness in these Hanukkah toys, including the dogs in family holiday play.

Where: BitchNewYork

Dimensions:

Small: 3.5″ x 3.5″

Medium: 5.5″ x 5.5″

Large: 9″ x 9″

Price: $10-12.00 depending on size

And if these don’t float your boat, there’s a menorah, a Look Who’s Talking Gefilte Fish, a Star of David toy and more.

Hanukkah-Themed Dog Clothes

Menorah T-Shirt or Tank

Menorah Rhinestone/Studs T Shirt

Love this T. It comes in a flattering black with a glittering rhinestone menorah in blue, gold and silver stones and studs. I like it comes in either a t or tank; some dogs don’t like sleeves or look better in tanks. They’re both made with high quality materials and workmanship. The t’s are made of 6 oz heavyweight cotton jersey with ribbed collar. The tanks are made of 100% cotton ribbed knit with a slightly tighter fit than the t shirts. These are custom made so Puprwear asks that you measure your dog carefully, because they’re not returnable. Takes 2-4 business days to ship.

And, if that wasn’t cool enough, you or your children can get matching t’s or tanks! Puprwear offers beautiful shirts in a variety of colors. Also custom made and not returnable. They offer a size chart on the landing page for this item here.

T’s and tanks also available with a Star of David rhinestone design.

Where: Puprwear.com

Price: $24.95-27.95 depending on size for both dogs and humans

Note: Currently, the color red 3x and 4x tanks are sold out.

Hanukkah Spinner Dog Hair Bow Barrette

Hanukkah Spinner Dreidel Barrette

This is an unusual gift. A beautiful grosgrain, polyester or woven polyester ribbon (I prefer the grosgrain)  with an almost argyle blue on blue pattern over varying shades of blue stripes, I love the subtle look of the coloring of this barrette. But the subtly stops there. Attached is a spinning dreidel! It’s quite cool, though. The ribbon has been treated with a special non-toxic stiffener, especially for dog wear, that will protect the ribbon and make it last. You have a choice of two types of backs to the barrette: a french clip which seems the easiest on and off, and two latex bands, so if one breaks, you have the other. I’m not sure I like this option as what if both break? Ships in 5-7 business days.

Where: Puprwear.com

Dimensions: Approximately 1.5″ in diameter

Price:

$5.95-latex bands

$7.95-French clip

$8.95-No slip French clip

Blue Velvet Haute Collar

Blue Velvet Haute Collar

I designed this blue velvet luxury men’s shirt collar, called a Haute Collar, and it’s made by Couture by Sophie, my dog apparel and accessories brand. It was made in New York’s Garment Center and 10% of each sold is donated to the American Humane Association. The fabric was chosen in Hanukkah blue for the holidays, however, it isn’t limited to the holidays. Customers have dressed their dogs in this item all year round, but it lends itself best to fall, winter because of the cotton velvet fabric. The collar stand is made from matching silk fabric. The Haute Collar is fastened with a dazzling Swarovski crystal closure. This item is not expandable so sizing is important.  Custom sizing is also available and takes 2 weeks to ship custom. The collar should be dry cleaned.

Where: CouturebySophie.com

Sizing:

P: 8-10″ neck

XS: 9-12″

S: 12-14″

M: 14-16″

L: 16-18″

Price: &68.00

Custom Pricing: $78.00

 Happy Chanukah Hoodie

Hanukkah Hoodie

This is a very cute item made in the USA, and very cozy for your dog. The looped terry fabric has a bit of a heathered look and is made from stretchy ribbed cotton. Happy Chanukah lettering is silk screened on the back. The hoodie is machine washable. BitchNewYork suggests you measure your dog carefully as this item is not returnable and they do charge a 20% restocking fee for exchanges. Please order as much in advance as you can to give enough time around the holidays to deliver.

Where: Bitch New York

Sizing: XS – XL (sizing chart available via landing page for this item)

Price: $31.00

Hanukkah for the Whole Family

Hanukkah Festival Dog/Owner Gift Basket

Hanukkah Dog/Owner Gift Basket

I’ll close with this great Hanukkah gift basket for you and your dog. This is one of the better ones I’ve seen because all of the items are high quality. It comes with Hanukkah-themed plush toys for your dog, including the Gelt and Dreidel toys; a Blue Blizzard chew bone; delicious Hanukkah treats like a hand decorated Happy Hanukkah bone, a bottle of Yappy Hour Vineyards Doggy Wine (of course, non-alcoholic), and a Yappy Hour Vineyards Peanut  Butter Carob Doggy Bar. For us, this basket includes Tortuga Caribbean Rum Cake, Almond Pound Cake Mix by Plentiful Pantry, Caramel Latte Mix by Pelican Bay and Winterberry Tea Mix by Too Good  Gourmet, all in a Hanukkah gift box with a handwritten note. The basket is wrapped in festive cello with ribbons and bows, so it looks great. A good value!

Where: BitchNewYork

Price: $189.00

Summary

Hanukkah is the festival of lights holiday. These are just a few of the creative gifts for your dog so they can share in the spirit and joy of the season. Shine your light and celebrate safely.

We always want your feedback, questions, comments so please reach out and tell us what you think and what you’d like to see covered here. Thank you!

Stay tuned on Friday for Part II of our three part series on how to find the best holiday dog outfits-Thanksgiving.

Uggie

Do you have a furry star or starlet at home just waiting for their 15 minutes of fame? If the answer is yes, wanted to tell you about Modern Dog magazine’s 2nd Star Dog Contest. You can go here to enter. http://moderndogmagazine.com/stardog.The grand prize winner will be featured in a two-page spread in an upcoming issue, as well as sit for a professional photo shoot.

The contest ends December 20 at 12pm PST. Although it states that the photo shoot for the winner must be set up within two weeks of the close of the contest, I spoke with the magazine and, because it falls in the middle of the Christmas/New Year’s holiday, there will be flexibility around this. The magazine will coordinate with the winner regarding the closest possible location for the shoot. There may be some travel to get there, which is the responsibility of the dog owner. But the magazine representative said they haven’t experienced an issue with this and are able to work with owners on a location not too far away.

So pull out the cool shades and get a great shot of your dog to submit. But don’t be surprised if, after all the attention, your dog wants to hire a personal assistant! Just ask Uggie. Best of luck!

Best in Show winner, 2013, Lobster Bake

The winner of this year’s Tompkins Square Park Halloween Dog Costume Contest was the Lobster Bake. Taking it’s cue from the popularity of the lobster costume for pups this Halloween, possibly from the beloved “The Little Mermaid” re-release,  the Lobster Bake featured two adorable Chihuahuas with little lobster costumes, one “cooking” in a frothy, bubbly pot of fuzzy cotton and clear plastic bubbles, and the other displayed in a picnic basket, conceivably already cooked. Both displays sat on a checked gingham covered Radio Flyer wagon. Very creative but the cooking Chihuahua didn’t look too happy. 🙁

Another costume that bears a mention for it’s sheer timeliness, originality and relevance is Barksy, a clever take on the street artist,Banksy, who has descended upon New York the past month, tagging buildings across the boroughs and creating a furor to protect the art he’s made from both graffiti vandals and the police.

Barksy

All in all, a very successful and fun day!

Sophie and I just returned from the Tompkins Square Park’s 23rd Annual Halloween Dog Parade and what a sight to behold! The park was jam packed with revelers, some displaying some very original, creative and well thought through costumes. Lots of dog/owner ensembles. Lots of fun.

Here are some of the best dressed to impress on my list.

Medical Marijuana: Free Samples

1) Medical Marijuana

This was my top pick. What an original idea! A dog and owner ensemble, each were covered with what looked like pot buds and stems. A placard read: Medical Marijuana; Free Samples. Hilarious and also getting across an important message for those suffering with disease symptoms alleviated by marijuana. As the mom struggled with putting on her English Bulldog’s thunder vest, which served as the corset of the costume, we were all congregating waiting to take pictures. Check it out.

Warhol and his Art

2) Warhol: An Artist and his Art

Another great display of creativity! Andy Warhol, his neon-blond Marilyn and their doggy as a Campbell’s Tomato Soup can completed this pop culture gem.

3) Chef Don and his Turkey

Maybe a little strange but definitely creative and forward looking to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday. Chef Don, dressed in full chef attire, holding his little terrier pup, who was wearing an entire Thanksgiving turkey suit, basted and cooked from the looks of it!

Chef Don and his Turkey

4) Fire Goddess and her little Winged Dragon

Sun Warrior and her Sun Dragon Dog

Not sure if this woman was emulating Daenerys from “Game of Thrones,” but she went all out creating a golden, fiery, feathery  sun warrior display that turned heads. And her little Chihuahua sat perched on her arm with his expansive feathered wings spread behind. What a sight!

5) Patriotic Trio with Pups

Lady Liberty and her adorable Pomeranian sailor pup, a red sequined who knows what, maybe a magician’s assistant with her matching sequined black bunny dog and a soldier in uniform made up this colorful trio. Lady Liberty was terrific. Great costume and her sailor dog looked so cute!

Lady Liberty, Little Sailor Pup & More

Sharknado Dog

6) Sharknado

With “Sharknado” such a pop culture hit, shark dog Halloween costumes exploded this year. So you knew there would be interpretations of the Sharknado craze at the Halloween Dog Parade. I liked this one best. A scene from “Sharknado” in full display on this doggy’s back. Very well done and real cool.

7) I Love Lucy 

My husband and I were just watching I Love Lucy episodes the other night, me for the first time in many years. What a timeless and brilliant show! Maybe this dog’s parents were too. A very cute costume that represents both Lucy and Ricky Ricardo, with his bongo drums as oaktag cutouts.

I Love Lucy Dog

8) Shark and Bait 

Cute dog duo. Like in nature, one eats, the other gets eaten. Here, shark and shark bait.

Shark and Shark Bait

Anthony Rubio & His Royal Chihuahuas

9) Anthony Rubio as Himself

Included Anthony and his costumed Chihuahuas here because his couture designs are always so outrageous! Anthony came as the cool chauffeur to his famed Chihuahua king and queen. The female was dressed in a white faux fur, bejeweled cape with a plume of ostrich feathers as a headdress. The other wore a white baton twirler-inspired jacket and bejeweled top hat. Whoa!

10) Ice Cream Anyone?

Mister Softie Dog

This cutie pie came as a Mister Softie Ice Cream truck. A very clever costume complete with images of the iconic Mister Softie ice cream cone , ice cream and ices selection display and a big sundae. Loved this!

And here’s Sophie as my little bunny, which she is, and her best friend, Holly the Havanese, in her ladybug costume.

Sophie the Bunny & Holly the Ladybug

Stay tuned for the grand winner of the Tompkins Square Park 23rd Annual Halloween Dog Costume Contest.

The Ultra Luxury Tuxedo Vest

This gorgeous and exclusive item is a stunner! With a silver pinstripe on a charcoal gray background, this designer vest will add a very special touch to any wardrobe. It has a white satin collar, a studded black bowtie and white frills running down the back. Finished with a substantial silver link chain attached by two black glitter buttons, this piece is to-die-for. Designed by Yvette Ruta, each piece is custom made so embellishments can vary. Velcro closure for ease and D-ring for leash attachment.

At $200, this is a splurge. But with this level of detailing and quality workmanship, it’s worth it! Sizing from XXS – L. Chest measurements from 9″-20″. Detailed sizing on the PoshPuppyBoutique site item page. This is a hand wash, lie flat to dry item. No heat. $200.00. PoshPuppyBoutique.com

If you’re not a business person or a Yankees fan, you may not think too much about pinstripes. But this season, designers have and we’re going to show you some very cute  examples of sheer doggy styling in pins.

Let’s get right into it. With menswear styles very popular for women too, this season, the pinstripe has made itself known in everything from coats to jeans, from skirts to jumpsuits. Pinstripes can be masculine or feminine and against a black, grey or navy background, goes with just about everything.

The Sweet Suit

1. The Sweet Suit

I fell in love with this little suit and the adorable doggy wearing it. This is a great choice if you’re having a dinner party and want your pup to look at natty as you do. Or, maybe you’re going to a special event where you can bring your dog. It’s a very put together look and you’ll get rave reviews from friends who wished they’d thought of it first! $21.99. LittlePetPlanet.com

The Classic Bow Tie

2) The Classic Bow Tie

This gorgeous black and white bow tie is a showstopper and the accessory to finish an outfit. Great for boys and fashion-forward girls, it has an adjustable strap and a clasp that’s easy to use. Fits a size 9″-16″ neck. Dimensions are 3.5″ long x 2″ high. $ 6.00. BitchNewYork.com  Smashing!

3. The Little Pinstripe Dress

This tailored little dress is very on trend. With a pastel pink bodice  (our Pastels on trend piece) and a grey pinstriped bottom, it’s a win-win. And I love the discreet little bow at the waist and the lace-trimmed yoke. Pearl buttons and a gold dangly heart add the finishing touches. What a

The Little Pinstripe Dress

sophisticated piece! $48.00. PoshPuppyBoutique.com

Mickey Mouse Dog Harness/Dress

4) The  Whimsical, Fun Harness/Dress

Disney fans, Mickey fans and pop culture fans, here’s a great piece of fun! What’s better than a Mickey Mouse dog harness?! This beautifully made garment can also be worn as a dress! 🙂 The detailing is exceptional. The harness secures with velco around the neck and chest. Sizes range from XXS to Medium, which is a 10″ chest to a 16″ chest. Complete sizing chart on the PoshPuppyBoutique site item page. $51.00 PoshPuppyBoutique.com

5) The Cozy Hoodie

The Lucky Bunny Hoodie

This Lucky Bunny Hoodie is, indeed, cozy. It’s made from very soft velour and actually has white faux fur around the hood, armholes and waist! How toasty on a chilly day! Comes in pink/white and blue/white. A bunny-in-a-bowtie applique completes the cutie pie look. Sizing from XS – XL. $48.00. PoshPuppyBoutique.com

6) The Ultra Posh Tuxedo Vest

This gorgeous and exclusive item is a stunner. With a silver pinstripe on a charcoal gray background, this designer vest will add a very special piece to any wardrobe. It has a white satin collar, a studded black bowtie and white frills running down the back. Finished with a substantial silver link chain attached by two black buttons, this piece is to-die-for. And so is the price. At $200, it is a splurge. But with this level of detailing and quality workmanship, it’s worth it! Sizing from XXS – L. Chest measurements from 9″-20″. Detailed sizing on the PoshPuppyBoutique site item page. This is a hand wash, lie flat to dry item. No heat. $200.00. PoshPuppyBoutique.com

The Ultra Posh Tuxedo Vest

Cobalt/Silver Beaded Leather Collar

7) Just For Fun Dog Collar

This detailed, beaded on leather dog collar looks at once artisan and original. I love the cobalt and silver beads on the weathered looking 100% leather collar band. These are all handmade with unique patterns and colors to choose from. Available is a 12″ collar that fits a 9-12″ neck. Brass hardware. Very lovely. $46.51. Amazon.com

In Summary

Pinstripes are one of this season’s trends, and there are plenty of ways to incorporate it into your dog’s wardrobe. I hope you enjoyed some of the suggestions above. Please email us with any questions or comments.

Until next time…

Smoochie Pooch Coral Bomber Jacket

The winter freeze is just around the corner and, if you haven’t already, it’s time to make sure your dog’s winter wardrobe is ready to go. Buying one or two new pieces, reflecting the current trends of the season, is always a great idea and fun to shop around for. There’s a huge selection in every price range. Not everyone can afford to spend champagne prices on winter dog clothes and you don’t need to. Let’s sift through the overwhelming choices to hone in on what I think are some stylish choices at great prices.

If you like wool or lined canvas, belted belly, covered belly, we are going to take a look at and review five of the most popular or, in our case pupular, ones.

Smoochie Pooch White Bomber Jacket

When I’m shopping for an everyday winter coat for Sophie, I look for something that is practical in the dirt and grime of New York City. I look for warmth, especially since Sophie has very thin hair and her chest and belly are exposed to the elements. Some of you may have the same concerns with your dog. So I like wide belts that cover a lot of her underside or coats that have closures on either side and completely cover her belly.

I also look for a style and fabric I love, so when she is out and about, I like the way she looks. Finally, I look for great fit. The most beautiful coat will look frumpy or uncomfortable if it doesn’t fit well.

I’m going to be looking at all these things in the coats I’m reviewing today. Here we go:

1) Smoochie Pooch Coral Bomber Jacket

This adorable, ruffled, bejeweled and feminine bomber jacket is a statement piece that will turn heads. The zipper up the back makes for easy on/off. It’s a poly cotton blend with a quilted detailing and lining to keep your dog warm. The double D-ring attachment makes it easy to just snap on the leash. This jacket is machine washable for easy care and lay flat to dry. Not all sizes are available so this gets a 4/5 rating.

Where: Petco

Price: $15.99-$19.99

Sizing: Also available in sizes XXS, L. XL, XXL, 3XL

Rating: 4/5

2) Smoochie Pooch White Bomber Jacket

A winter white version of the coral bomber is also available, also bejeweled and with ruffle detailing down the back. Also with D-rings for leash attachment. Also machine washable, lay flat to dry. Not all sizes available so this is getting a 4/5 rating.

Where: Petco

Price: $15.99-$19.99

Sizing: XXS, XS, M, L

Rating: 4/5

ABO Gear Lt. Blue Waterproof Coat

3) ABO Gear

I like this coat for larger dogs and I’ll tell you why. Larger dogs have more natural protection from the cold. I love that this coat is waterproof and breathable, but it is completely open on the chest and belly. This is fine for a large dog with a good coat like this Lab shown. But I wouldn’t choose this for a small dog on a very cold day. This is a great transitional coat for a small dog. And I love the color. It’s that pastel blue that’s very on trend this season. This coat is machine washable, made of polyester with 600D ripstop, breathable and waterproof fabric so your dog can maintain its natural body temperature. The coat features elastic hind leg straps to secure it in place and has hook and eye closures. There are adjustable straps so you can get that good fit we talked about that makes the coat look and feel great on your dog.

Where: Petco.com

Price: $21.24 – $38.24, depending on size  (Save up to 15%)

Sizing: XS – XXL

Rating: 4/5

4) Petsoo Camo Coat

Petsoo Puppy Camo Coat

This cotton-filled coat is nice and warm, and I love the camouflage fabric. I love the snaps and patches and the faux fur hood. The coat is very easy to get on and off; closures are snaps all along the underbelly so the underside is completely covered and it keeps your little baby toasty. It’s machine washable.

Where: Amazon.com

Price: On sale from $19.99 to $42.00, depending on size

Sizing: XS – XXL

Rating: 5/5

5) Plaid Design Parka

This very cute, trendy red plaid fabric is combined with a blended wool and twill overcoating. This means warmth. The easy snap closure means quick going on and off your dog and the belly is completely covered. The quilted poly lining adds extra warmth. I normally wouldn’t go for a poly lining, but combined with the blended wool and twill, I do think your dog will stay warm. Faux fur around the hood adds a nice stylish accent and I like how the hood is held in place with a buckle in the back. I can’t tell you how many times a hooded jacket with get in Sophie’s eyes because I doesn’t have a way to secure it. This coat is recommended only for smaller dogs like a Chihuahua and  Miniature Doberman, which is why it’s getting a 4 rating and not a 5.

Red Plaid Parka

Where: Amazon.com

Price: $21 and free shipping on orders over $25

Sizing: XS – L

Rating: 4/5

The North Paw Puffy Dog Vest in Deep Raspberry

6) The North Paw Puffy Dog Vest

I love this product. It’s a quilted puffy vest so it’s very warm  and the ripstop outer fabric will repel wind and water. It comes in great colors – deep raspberry as shown; olive, red, cobalt blue and black. I love that this piece works well for large and small dogs. It is easy to put on and take off with a velcro closure from neck to belly. And the reflective strip around the collar is a great safety feature. I also like that it comes in a variety of sizes, so one should work for almost any dog.

Where: PoshPuppyBoutique.com

Price: from $30 – $45

Sizing: XXS-XL; 8-24″ Length

Rating: 5/5

Pets Life Winter White Snow Parka

7) Pet Life Winter White Snow Parka

This is a top-rated winter coat in the very fashionable black and white trend. It’s super cute, has the  great 3M Thinsulate technology inserted between the fabric and lining, which regulates your dog’s body temperature so they don’t get too hot or cold, it’s breathable, fleece-lined in black, has ribbed sleeves and faux fur trim on the hood for added warmth. The coat goes on and comes off easily with velcro closures. I love the toggle detail on the back. It adds an interesting and collegiate feature.

Where: Petco.com

Price: $35.99

Sizing: Available in XS (8-10), S (10-12), M (14-16)

Rating: 5/5

8) Anima Blue Princess Dog Jacket

Anima Princess Snow Coat

Something strictly for the girls…this on trend, pastel blue little puffer hoodie is irresistible. It’s a quilted, water-resistant poly blend with lining.  A faux fur trim around the hood adds to it’s warmth and charm. And the cutest thing are the faux fur pom pom balls on the end of the hood drawstrings. Off the Adora-Meter! With this pastel color, it’s good to know the coat is machine washable for easy care.

Where: Amazon

Price: $34.99

Sizing: XXS  –  L

Rating: 4/5

Also available in Pink:

Summary

These are just a few of the many winter dog jackets available. Hope I covered a good variety. Please let me know if you have any questions or comments. Happy shopping!

Until next time…