Dogs come complete with their very own coats, but that doesn't mean that they don't need to be dressed up every now and then. Often, the clothing is functional, but sometimes it's just purely for fun. Here are four types of dog clothes that either serve a purpose or are great for pure enjoyment.

1. Clothes for Warmth

Like people, many dogs need to put on a shirt or jacket or coat when it's chilly outside. Sure, certain breeds are equipped for the cold, but short haired dogs needs a little help,

Fortunately, there are plenty of companies making all sorts of doggy wear, from t-shirts and light jackets to full-on winter coats. My dog, Bolt, is small with a short coat, so clothing is essential for him on chilly fall and winter days.

2. Clothes for Rain

If you live in a rainy climate, you probably dread taking your dog out for a walk under stormy clouds. Unfortunately, when a dog's gotta go, he's gotta go, and sometimes that happens in the middle of the downpour.

Fortunately, there are many companies like Fab Dog rain coat that make raincoats for dogs. Sure, you can bring an umbrella for your walk, but it's tricky to get your dog to stay by your side under shelter when she wants to sniff and explore everything you pass. A raincoat will help keep her dry even if she keeps darting out from under the umbrella's shelter.

I live in Central Florida, which is famous for its daily summer thunderstorms. That means I walk Bolt in the rain a lot, so his raincoat gets a real workout. It's essential gear if you're also in a climate with frequent downpours.

3. Clothes for Calming

This might sound odd for a type of dog clothing unless you're familiar with products like the Thundershirt,Calm Coat, or Anxiety Wrap. Basically, they work by swaddling the dog in a tight shirt that has a calming effect. The Thundershirt got its name because of its usefulness for calming dogs who are afraid of thunderstorms, but it's actually useful in a variety of circumstances.

A friend of mine tested the Thundershirt on her dog, as he's terrified of car rides. Amazingly, it made her trips go a lot more smoothly. I also used a Thundershirt on Bolt when I first got him, as he had a lot of separation anxiety. Although it didn't totally remove the problem, there was a marked difference when he wore his shirt.

Thundershirt also makes a product for cats; some are very responsive to it, while others don't want anything to do with it, as you can read in my review.

4. Clothes for Safety

Sometimes dog clothes serve an important safety purpose. For example, if you're an avid boater and your pup likes to accompany you, you can dress him up in a life jacket in case of a "dog overboard" incident.

I'm also a big fan of reflective and light-up dog vests to make night walks a little safer. I don't have a fenced yard, so Bolt goes on walks every night before bed, His Kurgo light-up vest makes sure that cars see us.

5. Clothes for Fun

 Dog clothing can be functional, but it can also be purely for fun. I love dressing Bolt up in costumes for Halloween and other appropriate occasions. He even won a best-dressed dog contest in my town recently while wearing his taco costume from Petco.

You can buy pet costumes or make your own. If you're the creative sort, check out these videos. They have lots of do-it-yourself ideas for costumes that will have you all ready for next Halloween.