I have no hard data, but anecdotal evidence and online research suggest that Japan is the world’s Number 1 dog dressing nation. The size and breed range of dogs involved, the array and elaborateness of their outfits, the variety of events providing canine fashion occasions, the widespread enthusiasm for the practice… Japan rules the roost in all couture categories.
Today I’ll focus only on informal — as opposed to ceremonial — dog dressing.
I know, dressing small dogs is controversial. It’s infantilizing, many contend, leading dogs to be treated as accessories rather than as living creatures. No question: finding outfits for small dogs is not very challenging. But a book of crafts patterns being sold on e-Bay (until June 7) suggest that some Japanese guardians of diminutive dogs are taking a more difficult and creative fashion path. If Paris Hilton were to personally knit her Chihuahuas’ outfits, she would take the pups more seriously, don’t you think?
Admit it: The dog in the hat is smiling
Admit it: You're smiling
At the other end of the size and style spectrum is the sporty pup captured by Jeanie and Mike Colaianni and sent to their daughter, Courtney, in Tucson. The Colaiannis have been living in Japan for five years; Jeanie in particular has become quite an expert on local dog fashion. This pooch was chosen as a photo subject not only for his stylish Peanuts basketball jersey — don’t ask me what that’s about — but because he reminded Mike of Courtney’s Sheltie, Sammy (who generally goes without clothes).
Sammy San
Greyhound chic
I admit it. I have a soft spot for greyhounds. My friend Karyn is a tireless advocate for them, and through personal acquaintance with her pups, Painter (see April 25 post) and Lily, I’ve come to appreciate how funny and sweet tempered they are, no matter what curves – especially those on race tracks – life throws them. So here’s another birthday picture, this one of Lily on her 10th.
Carmen MiranDog, photo by Diana Hansen
The Italian greyhound in the more elaborate floral hat is also a rescue, though not one with whom I’m personally acquainted. I found the picture on Etsy, a great shopping site devoted to handcrafted items of all kinds, including pet clothing. They even ran a survey on who is more fashionable, cats or dogs. Guess who won?
Design and photo by Hatz4Bratz
Lots of people think greyhounds are nervous and skittish. I hope these pictures help dispel that notion. A dog’s got to be pretty mellow to wear that headgear. Lily looks like she’s reveling in the attention.
I’m for breaking down breed prejudices, so if anyone has pictures of clothed pitbulls, rottweilers, dobermans and other so-called dangerous dogs, please send them to me. The outfits don’t have to be elaborate. A rakish bandana or some tasteful footwear will do.