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Here are the signs that your pet is allergic to their Christmas costume.

For humans, noticing that a jumper is irritating simply results in some half-hearted scratching and then removing the item of clothing.

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However, for dogs, the reality of wearing clothing is not so simple: dogs have no way of communicating whether their skin is being irritated or not, along with having no way to remove clothing that is placed onto them.

Wool might seem like a good, warm choice for a dog jumper, but for pups with sensitive skin it can cause itching and discomfort.

There are many fabrics that most dogs find irritating against their skin, which is why Head Vet Sean McCormack at Tails.com has revealed which ones should be avoided, how to recognise the signs of skin irritation and when clothing fits your dog incorrectly.

Which fabrics should I avoid when buying a jumper for my dog?

Wool

One of the main offenders is wool. While luxurious for most humans, wool can be very irritating for dogs.

Wool might seem like a good, warm choice for a dog jumper, but for pups with sensitive skin it can cause itching and discomfort.

Nylon

Another fabric that might cause irritation is nylon.

While nylon is a very commonly used fabric, canines who are allergic can experience itchy and inflamed skin.

Faux fur

While it is great for keeping humans warm, there is a risk of it being incredibly irritating for dogs.

It could also cause dogs with thicker coats to overheat, as they are, essentially, already wearing an insulated coat.

Feathers

If a festive costume party is on the horizon for you and your pooch, then feathers are a definite no-go.

As well as presenting a potential choking hazard, feathers can be extremely irritating for dogs.

What are the signs of a dog having an allergic reaction to fabric?

If your dog is irritated or, worse, having an allergic reaction to a certain type of material, there are always signs you can look out for:

Cuts on the skin that show a dog has been scratching

Weeping eyes

Excessive scratching

Skin redness caused by scratching

Bald patches caused by hair loss

A runny nose

Itchy ears

Swelling around the face

Sneezing

Dog owners warned over dangers of dressing up their pets in Christmas costumes