While most dogs can easily get taught how to sit, lie down, or fetch – getting them to wear clothing and protective gear is a whole new ball game. If you’ve ever tried to put clothes on a particularly stubborn dog, you’ll know there are usually stages of denial, refusal, and ultimately – passive acceptance. Your dog isn’t used to clothes, and why would they be? Dogs don’t wear clothing or shoes in the wild, but they are also centuries out from having to rough it out there. The memory of their ancestors hunting for food and living in dens is all but the faintest thread of wild left in their DNA.

Some dogs need protective wear, especially working dogs and dogs living in frigid climates. While they might survive without it, their lives are made better simply by gearing up for the weather. If you’ve been trying to get your furball to don some seasonal gear, you’ll know that some things are easier said than done. The good news is that with some training, your dog will be more than ready to wear the necessary before venturing outside. Below are eight tips for training your dog to skip straight to the acceptance phase.

1. Puppy Years

While this isn’t always possible, the best way to train your dog to comfortably wear their gear is to start when they are young. During the puppy years, your pooch will be more inclined to tolerate new things – mostly because he doesn’t know better yet. Capitalize on this time by introducing them to puppy training, you’ll be so glad that you did once he is older and stuck in his ways.

2. Get the Right Fit

Dogs aren’t like kids, so hand-me-downs will not work. Take measurements of your pup and have items fitted to his size perfectly. That simple step will make all the difference when you first train your dog to wear apparel. Look for items that fasten around the chest or tummy, which eliminates the need to pull it over his head and feed through his limbs. For many dogs, it’s not the item of clothing that is the problem – it is the process of putting it on.

3. Booties Boot Camp

Ice, snow, and road salt can make walking in the cold a treacherous activity during winter. Keeping their paws safe from dangers is not only necessary – but also the right thing to do. Take the time to teach them how to wear dog snow shoes, and your furry friend will be protected from the elements in no time. One of the easiest ways to get this right is to associate the boots with a reward. Keep dog training treats on hand to reward them every time they wear them.

4. Let Them Get Used to the Items

Dogs are often anxious about the unknown, like having their teeth cleaned or wearing clothes to protect them from the cold. They will be more welcoming of the clothing items once they know and trust that they won’t harm them. Let your dog familiarize themselves with the apparel items. Leave the items on the ground and put a few dog snacks around for your pup to investigate and praise them if they show interest in the clothing items.

5. Don’t Go Overboard

This is your pet we’re talking about – they’re not a Paris runway model. Keep things simple and functional, not hoodies and bling. While it is fine to add a few extras for fun, remember that your dog has no interest in looking like a Barbie doll. Stick to items your dog needs to make it through each season and leave the sunglasses to the surfer humans.

6. Coat Tactics

Getting your dog used to wearing a coat will take time and effort. You need to be patient and slow things down. Start with just their head and feed your pooch a treat every thirty seconds or so, as a reward for tolerating the coat. If your dog retreats at any stage, give them a treat anyway – this can be a scary experience for them, and you don’t want to make them feel like they haven’t done a good job.

7. Don’t Raise Your Voice

Don’t raise your voice, no matter how frustrated you get. Dogs don’t speak English and they don’t respond well to anger. Talk in a calm and loving voice instead to stop your dog from getting nervous. If you feel yourself getting too frustrated, chances are your pooch is feeling it too. Go for a short walk outside and clear your mind.

8. Play Time

Once your dog has his gear on, take him for a fun walk or play with the ball outside. Playtime is rewarding for dogs, and he’ll soon learn to associate his outfits with a positive and happy experience. At the end of the day, that is the best outcome you could hope for!