Customized Pitbull Sweaters...Because Big Dogs Need Love, Too!

As much as I love for my boyfriend's 1-year-old pitbull, Hawk, to curl up next to me to keep warm, the recent fuh-reezing temps have really made me feel for the sweet pup. I decided I wanted to get him a sweater. Since the large pet supply retailers only sell clothes for tiny dogs (I'm not bitter), I took my quest to the Internet.

After Googling "pitbull sweaters," I immediately stumbled upon Creations By Ginger, a mom-and-pop site that offers custom polar fleece long johns, sweaters and vests ($25-$30) for pitbulls. The owner is Ginger Davis, a mother of two and grandmother to four with pits of her own. I knew I had found what I had been looking for.

The various solid and printed designs skewed cool and not cutesy (didn't want Hawk to look like a pampered baby—even though he so is!). And since Ginger was a pit owner, I was certain I was in good hands. It's just always better dealing with someone who has an affection for the misunderstood breed. I also loved that the garments are customized to your canine's exact measurements, which meant that Hawk would be toasty in his new fitted gear.

The two pairs of long johns I ordered (royal blue and a hooded black) arrived within a week's time and looked fantastic on Hawk. Little did I know that the outerwear had another amazing benefit besides warmth in the winter.

Aside from the fact that my boyfriend and I no longer have to leave the promenade with Hawk as soon as the sun retires in fear he'll get too cold, the long johns have also calmed Hawk down a lot. He's only a year old and has a ton of energy. When guests come over, he tends to get superpumped up and runs around and jumps on people. But when he has his "jammies" on, the little guy is much more subdued. All he wants to do is stay still, cuddle and nap. He's just perfectly content. Hallelujah! Now, it's not as stressful when there's a knock at the door. 

Davis' site specifically says "pitbull polar fleece," but if you're not satisfied with other dog clothes on the market, her merch is worth checking out—no matter what kind of pooch you have. And if you have a really energetic young pup like Hawk, the fleece just might make it a heck of a lot easier for you to invite people over for the holidays!

>>>SHOP: For Pets Gift Guide 2011