Are you crazy? It’s already hot… and make the dog wear a t-shirt?”

It’s a phrase that I hear often.

And, I admit, it is a more than legitimate question.

If it’s 30 or 35 degrees outside, why should we dress our dog?

In reality, the answer is very different from what you think.

A summer T-shirt was not created to warm the dog or to make him more “fashionable”. It was born, in some situations, to protect it.

Last week I went up to the mountains with Ciko and Ginger to give us a day away from the heat of the city. Finally we were breathing a little: 22°C, fresh air, clear sky and a wonderful sun. One of those days that make you want to walk for hours.

Just during a walk I met a beautiful poodle just out of grooming. He was completely shaved and the sun was beating down directly on his back.

The first thing I thought was:

“Poor thing… with this sun he really risks getting burned.”

I stopped to talk to his owner and suggested something very simple: during the sunniest walks it would be useful to make him wear a light and breathable cotton T-shirt.

She looked at me surprised.

“Really? I thought with a T-shirt it would be even warmer.”

And this is precisely the reason why I decided to write this article.

Many imagine the T-shirt as a simple aesthetic accessory.

In reality, when it is chosen in the right fabric and used in the correct situations, it can represent a real protection for the dog.

A summer T-shirt is not good for warming the dog

When I think of a summer T-shirt, I certainly don’t imagine a heavy garment.

I think of a natural, soft and breathable fabric that creates a barrier between the dog’s skin and the sun.

Of course, a T-shirt must never be heavy or not very breathable: it must be light, comfortable and leave the dog completely free to move.

When is a T-shirt really useful?

There are situations in which a summer T-shirt is not a whim, but a little concrete help.

After grooming

It is probably the most frequent case.

After a summer shearing, especially in Poodles and other breeds that are shaved very short, the skin is suddenly much more exposed to the sun’s rays.

During a summer walk, a simple T-shirt can help protect her.

For short-haired dogs

Breeds such as short-haired Chihuahuas, Pinschers, Italian Greyhounds and other dogs with little hair naturally have less protection than dogs with thick coats.

A light T-shirt can be an extra barrier during walks.

For dogs with white fur or very light skin

Poorly pigmented areas tend to be more sensitive to UV rays.

In these cases, a fabric protector can be particularly useful.

For dogs with delicate skin

If your dog suffers from skin irritation or has particularly sensitive skin, limiting direct sun exposure can be a little help.

Of course, it is always advisable to follow the advice of your veterinarian.

The fabric really makes the difference

Not all T-shirts are suitable for summer.

On the contrary.

If the fabric is heavy or not very breathable, the result may be exactly the opposite of what you want.

For this reason, I always prefer natural fabrics such as cotton and natural fibers, which offer numerous advantages: they are light;

they let the skin breathe;

soft and comfortable;

accompanies movements without forcing the dog.

A good T-shirt almost has to forget it’s worn.

Not only during the day

There is another situation that is often underestimated.

Summer evenings.

Let’s think of a walk along the seafront.

During the day the heat is intense, but as soon as the sun goes down a pleasant sea breeze often arrives.

The same happens in the mountains.

During the day you can walk quietly in a T-shirt, but in the evening the temperature can drop by several degrees.

In these situations, a T-shirt or a light brushed cotton sweatshirt can be very useful, especially for small or short-haired dogs.

They are not used to “cover” the dog, but simply to accompany him during those temperature changes typical of summer evenings.

It is one of those garments that I personally always recommend to keep in your bag when you leave for a vacation.

Maybe it won’t be useful every day.

But when a sudden breeze comes or you decide to stay out late, it will be nice to have it with you.

It’s not a matter of fashion

I admit it.

I like to create elegant garments.

I love to see a dog with a nice T-shirt.

But when I design a new model, I never start with aesthetics.

The first question I ask myself is always:

“Can this garment really be useful to the dog?”

Only then do I think about the details, the colors and the style.

For me, clothing must accompany the dog in everyday life, always respecting its well-being.

If, in addition to being useful, it also manages to be beautiful to look at…

… So yes, we really hit the nail on the head.

The Pet Chérie philosophy

Every garment I make is born thinking of my two little companions of adventure, Ciko and Ginger.

They are my first “testers”.

I observe them during walks, on trips, at the seaside, in the mountains and in everyday life.

Many of the ideas that become a Pet Chérie collection are born just like this: from a lived experience, from a concrete need or from a small episode, just like that of the poodle met in the mountains.

For this reason, when I recommend a summer T-shirt, I don’t think of a fashion accessory.

I think of a garment that, in the right situations, can make a walk more comfortable and offer extra protection.

And this is the philosophy with which each Pet Chérie creation was born: combining quality, comfort and elegance, always putting the well-being of the dog first.

If you are looking for a handcrafted cotton T-shirt for small dogs, you can discover the Pet Chérie summer collection

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The first to try it, of course, were Ciko and Ginger.

They wore them on our daily walks, in the city, in the park and during our outings. Like any dog, they also place their collar on the ground, rub their harness while walking, and the accessories inevitably end up getting dirty and worn.

The thing that won me over was the simplicity of cleaning: a quick rinse under water, a soft cloth and they were immediately clean again.

As time went by, I began to appreciate another feature even more: the ability of the material to maintain a well-groomed appearance over time. We still use the same accessories today and they continue to be pleasant to look at and use.

Since that first prototype we have never gone back.

For Pet Chérie, choosing Biothane® wasn’t simply a technical decision—it was a matter of philosophy: creating accessories that are beautiful, practical, and designed to accompany dogs in their everyday lives.

Of course, aesthetics remain a fundamental part of everything we do.

That’s why we enhance every creation with carefully selected details that make each accessory even more elegant: colourful studs, sparkling embellishments, refined finishes, and thoughtfully curated colour combinations.Per questo abbiamo deciso di impreziosire ogni creazione con dettagli che rendono ogni accessorio ancora più elegante: borchiette colorate, punti luce, finiture raffinate e abbinamenti cromatici studiati con cura.

That’s why every Pet Chérie creation is enhanced with carefully selected details: colourful studs, sparkling accents, refined finishes, and beautifully coordinated colour combinations, all designed to make each accessory truly unique.

But what exactly is Biothane®? And what makes it such a popular choice? Let’s find out together.

What Is Biothane®?

After sharing my personal experience, I’d also like to explain what Biothane® actually is.

Biothane® is a patented technical material made from a high-strength polyester webbing core that is completely coated with a specially formulated polymer.

This unique construction gives Biothane® many of the qualities that make it ideal for everyday use: it is flexible, highly durable, comfortable to the touch, and retains its refined appearance over time.

At first glance, it looks very much like leather, but with one important difference: it isn’t affected by moisture, requires very little maintenance, and retains its beauty over time without the need for special treatments.

It’s no coincidence that Biothane® is trusted in professional applications such as equestrian equipment and working dog gear, where exceptional durability and reliability are essential.

Why I Chose Biothane® for Pet Chérie

Whenever I design a new product, I always look for the perfect balance between beauty, quality, and practicality.

Biothane® brings all of these qualities together.

It’s a material that immediately conveys a sense of quality, while allowing us to create accessories designed to accompany dogs through everyday life without requiring any special care.

For the Pet Chérie style, choosing it felt like the natural choice.

Its clean lines, smooth finish, and the ability to pair it with elegant hardware, colourful studs, and sparkling accents allow us to create refined collars, harnesses, and leashes while preserving the understated elegance that defines Pet Chérie.

The Main Benefits of Biothane®

Elegant and pleasant to the touch

One of the aspects that strikes from the first moment is its finish.

The surface is smooth, uniform and soft, qualities that make the Biothane® very pleasant both to wear for the dog and to hold during the walk.

The availability of delicate and contemporary colors also allows you to create elegant and easily combinable accessories.

Flexible yet extremely durable

Despite its softness, Biothane® is a very durable material.

It does not tend to crack easily and maintains good flexibility even after prolonged use.

This combination of softness and robustness is one of the aspects that convinced me from the very first prototypes.

Easy to clean

One of the advantages that I continue to appreciate every day is the simplicity of maintenance.

During a normal walk, it is inevitable that collars and harnesses will rest on the ground or collect some dust.

To bring them back clean, a quick rinse under water or a soft cloth is sufficient.

In a few moments they are tidy and ready to be used again.

Doesn’t Absorb Odours

Because it is a non-porous material, Biothane® does not absorb or retain odours.

It’s one of the features I appreciate most, as it helps keep our accessories fresh and pleasant to use, even after prolonged everyday use.

Retains its appearance over time

This is probably the feature that surprised me the most.

The accessories that Ciko and Ginger have been using for years continue to look very beautiful.

Of course, each product tells its own story of use, but Biothane® maintains its aesthetic and functional characteristics very well, and it is one of the reasons why I continue to choose it.

A vegan and certified material

Another aspect that I think is important is the composition of the material.

Biothane® is a vegan material, so it does not contain any animal-derived leather.

For those who want to make a cruelty-free choice, it represents a very interesting alternative, without sacrificing elegance and quality.

It is also produced according to high quality standards and with certifications that guarantee reliability and production consistency.

Is it suitable for small and medium-sized dogs?

Absolutely.

Pet Chérie makes accessories dedicated mainly to small and medium-sized dogs and the Biothane® has proven to be perfect for this type of use.

Its flexibility allows you to obtain comfortable collars and harnesses, while the lightness helps to make them pleasant to wear even during longer walks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Biothane® waterproof?

Yes. The material does not absorb water and can simply be wiped dry with a cloth after cleaning.

Is Biothane® a vegan material?

Yes. It does not contain animal skin and is a popular choice for those looking for a cruelty-free alternative.

Does it require maintenance?

No. One of its strengths is precisely the simplicity of cleaning and routine maintenance.

Is it also suitable for small dogs?

Certainly. Thanks to its flexibility and the possibility of making light accessories, it is also particularly suitable for breeds such as Chihuahuas, Poodles, Maltese, Volpini, Cavalier King and other small and medium-sized dogs.

Conclusion

If I had to go back today, I would make exactly the same choice again.

The Biothane® won me over first with its elegant appearance and colors, then with the practicality of daily use and finally with the ability to maintain its beauty over time.

This is precisely why it continues to be the material we choose to make our Pet Chérie collection of collars, harnesses and leashes.

For us it is not just a technical material, but the meeting point between design, Italian craftsmanship and quality designed to accompany the dog every day with style.

Discover the entire collection of our Biothane collars and harnesses and choose the one that best suits your puppy, consult our size guide to choose the right size or contact our customer service for any information or help on choosing the perfect size.

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A 2.5 kg Chihuahua can have very different proportions from another Chihuahua of the same weight, just as a Poodle can have a more developed chest or a particularly voluminous coat.

For this reason, it is important to know not only the measures to be taken, but also how to interpret them correctly.

Because the weight is not enough to choose the size

One of the most frequent mistakes is choosing a garment or harness based solely on weight.

In reality, the weight is only an indication.

Two dogs weighing 3 kg can have:

• different chests;
• different packages;
• different back lengths;
• very different amounts of hair.

For this reason, real measurements always remain the most reliable parameter.

The three really important measures

To identify the correct size, it is important to detect:

The most common mistakes when measuring

• Measure over an item of clothing: measurements should always be taken directly on the dog.
• Tighten the tape measure too much: the tape measure must adhere to the body without compressing the hair.
• Measure a seated dog: The dog should be in a natural position and standing.
• Don’t consider the coat: Poodles, Maltese and long-haired dogs may require a few additional inches compared to short-haired dogs.

Every product fits differently

Another aspect that is often underestimated is that not all products use the same parameters.

For example:

Collars

The main measurement is the circumference of the neck.

X-harnesses

The main measurement is the chest. Pet Chérie harnesses are equipped in most cases with a sliding collar, a feature that allows you to better adapt the fit to the shape of the dog and ensure greater comfort.

Vest Harnesses

Being structured as a real garment to wear, they follow criteria very similar to clothing. For this reason, it is always advisable to refer to the size chart dedicated to clothing.

Sweaters and coats

In addition to the chest, the size of the back is particularly important.

When is a size correct?

A product fits properly when:

• it does not restrict the dog’s movements;
• it does not create pressure points;
• it does not rotate during the walk;
• allows the dog to walk naturally;
• it is snug but not tight.

Do you have doubts about the size?

To find the correct size, always consult our Size Guide.

If you still have doubts, you can contact us by sending us your dog’s measurements: we will help you choose the most suitable model and size.

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Choosing the right harness size is essential to ensure your dog’s comfort, safety and freedom of movement during the walk.

A harness that is too tight can be uncomfortable, while a harness that is too wide risks shifting or not offering the right stability. This is why it is important to take the measurements correctly before purchasing and choose the size according to the selected model.

Why harness size is so important

The harness accompanies the dog during movement and must adhere correctly to the body without compressing. A correct size allows the dog to walk naturally, without restricting the movement of the front paws and without creating pressure points.

When the harness is well chosen, the dog moves more confidently and the owner has a more stable handling during the walk.

What measures to take before buying

Before choosing the size, it is advisable to measure the dog with a soft tape measure.

The most important measures are:

• chest circumference;
• neck circumference;

The most important measurement for most harnesses is the chest, to be measured at the widest point, just behind the front legs.

How to measure your dog’s chest

To measure your chest correctly, pass the soft tape measure around the fullest part of your dog’s body, just behind their front legs. The tape measure should adhere to the body, but not tighten.

It is advisable to leave a small margin of comfort, especially if the dog has a lot of hair or if it is between two sizes.

How to measure your neck

The circumference of the neck should be measured at the point where the collar or the upper part of the harness normally rests.

Also in this case the meter must not tighten. A good rule of thumb is to leave enough space to comfortably fit two fingers between the tape measure and the dog’s neck.

X-harnesses: the advantage of the sliding neck

Pet Chérie X-harnesses are designed to offer high adaptability to the dog’s conformation.

One of their key features is the sliding collar, which allows you to adjust the fit more precisely than many traditional models.

This system allows the harness to better adapt to the different proportions between neck and chest, a feature particularly useful in small dogs, which often have very different conformations even with the same weight.

Thanks to the sliding collar, the harness follows the dog’s body better and offers a more personalized fit, contributing to comfort during the walk.

To obtain the best result, however, it is important to carefully check both the neck and chest measurements and always consult the relevant size chart before purchasing.

Vest harnesses: pay attention to the clothing chart

Vest harnesses fit differently than adjustable harnesses.

Being structured as a small garment to wear, they are more similar to clothing than to the classic leash. For this reason, to choose the correct size of a Pet Chérie vest harness, it is important to refer to the clothing size chart.

In this case, the measurements of the neck, chest and back must be carefully considered.

How to tell if the harness is the right size

A harness is the correct size when:

• remains stable during walking;
• it does not tighten under the front legs;
• it does not leave marks on the fur or skin;
• it does not move sideways;
• allows the dog to move freely.

If the harness tends to turn, go up towards the neck or go too low on the chest, the measurement is probably not correct or needs to be adjusted better.

What to do if your dog is between two sizes

If the dog is between two sizes, it is important to evaluate the model chosen.

For an adjustable harness, it may be sufficient to choose the size that allows the best adjustment on the neck and chest.

For a vest bib, on the other hand, it is advisable to pay more attention to the measurement of the chest and back, precisely because the fit is similar to that of a piece of clothing.

When in doubt, it is always best to compare your dog’s measurements with the Pet Chérie Size Guide before completing your purchase.

See the Pet Chérie Size Guide

To help you choose the most suitable size, Pet Chérie provides a dedicated Size Guide .

Before buying a harness, we recommend that you carefully check your dog’s measurements and compare them with the table for the chosen model.

Remember: for vest bibs you must refer to the clothing size chart.

Discover Pet Chérie harnesses

Pet Chérie harnesses are designed for small and medium-sized dogs and combine comfort, safety and elegance.

Discover the collection of our Harnesses and Vests, choosing the model that best suits your dog’s needs.

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Today there are different models of harness and it is often not easy to understand which is the most suitable solution for your dog’s needs.

Among the most common types we find the X-shaped harness, the cage harness and the Vest harness. Each has specific characteristics and can be more suitable based on the dog’s build and the owner’s preferences.

X-shaped harness: lightweight, adjustable and versatile

This harness is one of the most popular models for its lightness and versatility.

Its structure allows traction to be distributed on the chest while maintaining great freedom of movement.

Benefits

• light and space-saving;
• easily adjustable;
• ideal for everyday use;
• accompanies the dog’s natural movement.

It is a popular solution for Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, Maltese and other small dogs. The X-harness is one of the most popular models for small and medium-sized dogs thanks to its simple and lightweight structure.

The webbing crosses over the dog’s body forming an “X” and allows good freedom of movement during the walk.

Main features

• very light;
• fully adjustable;
• takes up little space on the dog’s body;
• ideal for everyday use;
• Also suitable for long-haired dogs.

Best For

• Chihuahua;
• Toy Poodle;
• Maltese;
• Volpino;
• Yorkshire Terrier.

Benefits

The adjustment allows you to adapt the harness to different physical shapes and is a practical solution for those who want an elegant, light and space-saving accessory.

Cage harness (Simple and Fast): practical and stable

The cage harness wraps around the chest in a more structured way than the X-shaped harness.

Thanks to its shape, it offers good stability during walking and is easy to wear. This harness is also adjustable.

Benefits

• good traction distribution;
• excellent stability;
• easy to wear;
• also suitable for particularly lively dogs.

Many owners choose it for the convenience and safety it offers during daily use.

Vest bib: comfort and fit

The vest bib is worn like a real piece of clothing.

It wraps around the dog’s chest with a larger surface area and has leash loops placed on the back.

Main features

• soft and enveloping fit;
• excellent comfort;
• uniform pressure distribution;
• ideal for delicate dogs;
• Easy to wear.

Unlike the other types, the Vest bib fits similarly to a piece of clothing. Being similar to a vest, it offers a feeling of greater containment and stability, which is particularly appreciated by smaller dogs.

How to take measurements correctly?

To choose the correct size, it is essential to measure:

Neck

Measure the circumference of your neck where the collar normally rests.

Chest

Measure the fullest part of your chest, just behind your front legs.

Always use a soft measuring tape and leave a small margin of comfort.

Please note: sizes are not the same for all models

X-shaped harnesses and Cage harnesses use a specific size chart dedicated to leashes.

Vest harnesses, on the other hand, are similar to clothing and must be chosen by referring to the same size guide used for sweaters, sweatshirts and down jackets.

Always consult the Pet Chérie Size Guide before purchasing.

Which model to choose?

There is no absolute best harness.

The choice depends mainly on the dog, its habits and the owner’s preferences.

In general:

• choose the X-shaped harness if you want maximum lightness and adjustment;

• choose the Simple and Fast Cage harness if you are looking for practicality and safety;
• choose the vest harness if comfort is your priority.

Discover the Pet Chérie collections

You can discover all the models available by visiting our categories dedicated to Harnesses and Vest Harnesses.

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The choice depends on the dog’s build, its habits and the type of walk you intend to take.

When to choose the collar

The advantages of the collar for everyday use

The collar is a practical and versatile solution for everyday life. Many owners choose it because it is light, easy to wear and allows the dog to always carry the identification tag with him.

For small dogs, it is important to choose models proportionate to their build, avoiding collars that are too heavy or excessively wide.

In addition to the functional aspect, the collar can become a real style accessory, capable of enhancing the character and elegance of the dog during every walk.

Among the main advantages of the collar we find:

• lightness;
• practicality;
• speed of use;
• possibility to bring the identification tag.

When to choose the harness

The harness is particularly popular on longer walks because it distributes the traction to the chest rather than concentrating it on the neck.

A well-adjusted harness accompanies the dog’s natural movement and offers high stability when walking.

For Chihuahuas, Toy Poodles, Maltese and other small breeds, it is essential to choose a harness of the correct size, which does not restrict the movements of the shoulders and remains well adhered to the body without creating discomfort.

Also in this case, quality materials and a correct fit make the difference in the dog’s daily comfort.

Can both collar and harness be used?

Absolutely.

Many owners use the collar for daily life and for the identification tag, while choosing the harness during walks or outdoor activities.

The two solutions are not mutually exclusive and can be complementary.

What is the best choice for a Chihuahua or Toy Poodle?

For small dogs, it is essential to choose accessories proportionate to their build.

Both the collar and the harness must be light, adjustable and the correct size.

The choice depends mainly on the character of the dog and the owner’s preferences.

How to choose the correct size

Whether it’s a collar or a harness, the choice of size is crucial.

Before buying, it is advisable to measure your dog accurately using a soft measuring tape. For the collar it is necessary to measure the circumference of the neck, while for the harness it is also necessary to measure the chest at the widest point.

A correct fit ensures comfort, safety and freedom of movement during every walk.

If in doubt, it is always preferable to consult the size guide and check the measurements carefully before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is harness or collar better?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. Both solutions can be corrected if chosen to the appropriate extent and used correctly.

Can dog wear collar and harness?

Yes. Many owners use both accessories according to different situations.

Does the harness replace the collar?

No. The collar remains useful for the ID tag and for everyday use.

Discover the Pet Chérie collection

Discover our collection of Dog Collars and Dog Harnesses, designed to accompany your dog with comfort, safety and elegance during every walk.

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If you have a Chihuahua, Poodle, Maltese or other small or medium-sized dog, choosing the right collar is essential to ensure comfort, safety and freedom of movement during daily walks.

A collar should not only look good, but it should fit your dog’s shape correctly, be lightweight, and offer proper adjustment.

The size of the collar is essential

The first thing to consider is the size of the dog’s neck.

To detect it correctly, simply use a tape measure and measure the circumference of the neck at the point where the collar will be worn.

Once you have the measurement, it is advisable to leave a space of about two fingers between the collar and the dog’s neck. This will make the collar secure but comfortable at the same time.

A collar that is too tight can cause discomfort, while one that is too loose risks slipping off during the walk.

What features should a collar for small dogs have?

Small dogs have a delicate structure and need proportionate accessories.

A good collar should be:

• lightweight;
• adjustable;
• resistant to daily use;
• comfortable in contact with the fur;
• equipped with reliable and safe small parts.

Is it better to have a collar or a harness?

Many owners wonder if it is preferable to use a collar or a harness.

In reality, the two solutions can be complementary.

The collar is ideal for carrying the ID tag and for everyday use, while the harness is often chosen during longer walks or for particularly lively dogs.

The choice depends on the dog’s habits and the owner’s preferences.

Which collar to choose for Chihuahuas and Poodles?

Breeds such as Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles require special attention when choosing size.

For these dogs, it is advisable to choose models that are light, adjustable and made of quality materials, able to accompany movement without creating pressure points.

A well-proportioned collar contributes to the dog’s comfort and makes daily walks more enjoyable.

How to tell if the collar is the correct size?

A collar is the right size when:

• it does not slip over the head;
• it does not leave marks on the neck;
• allows two fingers to be comfortably inserted between the collar and neck;
• allows the dog to move freely.

Periodically checking the fit is especially important in puppies and young dogs that are growing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to measure your dog’s neck?

Use a soft measuring tape and measure the circumference of your neck where the collar will be placed.

How tight should a collar be?

The collar must allow two fingers to pass between the dog’s neck and the collar itself.

Can a Chihuahua wear a collar everyday?

Yes, as long as it is the correct size and made of comfortable materials.

Is collar or harness better?

It depends on the dog and the use. Many owners use both accessories according to different situations.

Discover the Pet Chérie collection

If you are looking for an elegant, resistant collar designed for small and medium-sized dogs, discover the Pet Chérie collection of Dog Collars , made with attention to detail and designed to accompany your dog every day in style.

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