Dogs at Christmas are practically family - they sit through the festivities, they pose for the group photo, and they have earned a bit of festive dress. A bow tie is the easiest way to do it: no costume to hate, nothing to chew, just instant smart.
Why a bow tie beats a full costume
Many dogs tolerate a bow tie far better than a full outfit. It sits on the collar they already wear, adds nothing to their body, and does not get in the way of ears, legs or tails. It photographs brilliantly and comes straight off when the photos are done. Comfort first, always - a dog in no outfit is a happy dog, and that matters more than the photo. We have said it before with Halloween costumes, and it is just as true at Christmas.
The red tartan classic
Red tartan is the Christmas print: it matches the wrapping paper, the tree and the family pyjamas. Our Dog Bow Tie in Red Tartan (£7.99) is the under-a-tenner festive touch - smart enough for the Christmas Day photo, inexpensive enough not to mind if it meets the gravy.
Fitting it right
Two rules: it goes on the collar, never directly on the neck, and you should be able to slide two fingers underneath. Fit it before the big day - let your dog wear it around the house for a few minutes so it is old news by Christmas morning. Never leave it on unsupervised, and take it off at mealtimes.
Make it a family thing
The best Christmas dog photos are the casual ones: the bow tie during present opening, the dog stealing a corner of the wrapping paper, the whole family in matching tartan. Let the dog's bow tie be the only costume in the house - everyone stays happy.
Christmas dressing for dogs works best when it is simple. A smart bow tie, a comfy collar underneath, and a dog that feels part of the day - that is the whole trick.