Is it OK to put a Christmas costume on your dog?

Check the fit

• You should be able to slide two fingers under any strap or neck opening.
• Nothing should cover your dog's eyes, ears, nose or mouth.
• Your dog should be able to walk, sit, lie down and go to the toilet normally.
• Check for loose bits that could be chewed off and swallowed, such as pom-poms or buttons, and trim or remove them.
• Between sizes? Go up one. Too loose is safer than too tight. Our size guide shows how to measure.

Introduce it slowly

Let your dog sniff the costume and give a treat. Put it on for a few seconds, treat, take it off. Do that a few times over a day or two before the big photo. Dress your dog last, right before you take the picture, and take the costume off as soon as you're done.

Signs your dog isn't enjoying it

• Freezing, or standing stiff and refusing to move
• Tail tucked or ears pinned back
• Lip licking, yawning or showing the whites of the eyes
• Scratching, rolling or biting at the costume
• Hiding or trying to get away

If you see any of these, take it off. Try again another day with more treats and less time, or skip the costume and put a jumper on yourself instead.

How long to leave it on

Think minutes, not hours: long enough for photos and a bit of fun while you're watching. Take it off before naps, before your dog is left alone, and if your dog seems warm. Fleece-style costumes are cosy, so keep an eye on dogs near fires and radiators.

Dogs who should skip it or keep it short

• Flat-faced breeds such as pugs, French bulldogs and bulldogs can overheat and find breathing harder. Keep the neck loose and sessions very short.
• Anxious dogs, or dogs who don't like being handled.
• Dogs with skin problems, injuries, or recovering from an operation. Ask your vet first.
• Older dogs with stiff joints may find getting legs into a costume uncomfortable. A lighter option like the Little Elf vest is easier.

What about cats?

We'd skip it. Most cats really don't like being dressed up, which is why our cat product is a jumper for you: the Fire-Breathing Boxer Cat Jumper.