Pug, French Bulldog and Boston Terrier Clothes Guide › Do Pugs, French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers Need Clothes?
From Houndz in the Hood, based on the fitting notes of founder Terri Goodwillie, who has made breed-fitted dog clothes in New York City since 1999. Updated October 2026.
Short answer: on chilly, windy, wet or cold days, yes, a well-fitted garment makes walks more comfortable for many Pugs, French Bulldogs and Boston Terriers. The better choice is a four-leg bodysuit, because it covers the chest, belly and all four legs instead of just the back.
When clothes help
Every dog is different, so watch your own dog. If your Pug, Frenchie or Boston hangs back at the door, hurries home or shivers on a walk, it is time to add a layer. Typical times owners reach for clothes:
- Chilly fall and spring mornings and evenings
- Winter walks in cold, windy weather
- Rain, sleet and snow
- A cool house, a long car ride, hiking or camping
Why fit matters so much for these breeds
Pugs, Boston Terriers and French Bulldogs can be hard to fit because of their shape. On our size chart the chest girth of every size is several inches larger than the back length: our smallest size, PS, is 13 to 15 inches long with a 19 to 21 inch chest. Clothes sized only by back length usually won’t close over that chest, or gap and slide when they do. Read more in why these breeds are hard to fit.
Why a bodysuit is the better choice
A back-only coat leaves the chest, belly and legs uncovered. Our Pug, Boston Terrier and French Bulldog Bodysuits cover the whole body, including the chest and legs. They:
- stretch to go on, with no velcro, zippers or clasps
- have a discreet leash and harness opening on the back
- are cut to allow all bodily functions, so your dog can walk, run and go to the bathroom in them
- are machine washable
Which bodysuit for which weather
- Chilly days, and inside the house: Indoor/Outdoor Bodysuits ($52), a midweight fleece that resists wind and rain. It is made for fall and spring in northern climates and all winter in mildly cold regions, and it can be worn indoors for lounging and sleeping.
- Cold, windy winter walks: Heavy Fleece Bodysuits ($60), a thick, warm fleece that resists wind and repels rain and snow. It is for outside wear only.
Heavy Fleece Sweaters and Heavyweight Sweatshirts are nice extras for a quick change, but for real coverage the bodysuit is the one to choose. See which bodysuit is right for your weather.
Made for these breeds
Our Pug, Boston Terrier and French Bulldog line is sized just for them, in 3 sizes, and has been sewn in New York City’s garment district and checked by hand before it ships. Since 1999, every Houndz in the Hood pattern has been sized and shaped to the breed, the way a dressmaker fits a client.
Ready to find your dog’s fit?
Browse all Pug, Boston Terrier and French Bulldog clothes, check the Pug, Boston Terrier & French Bulldog sizing guide, or send us your dog’s measurements and we’ll help you choose.
Frequently asked questions
Do French Bulldogs need coats in winter?
Many are more comfortable on cold, windy winter walks with a garment that covers the chest, belly and legs. A four-leg bodysuit is the better choice than a back-only coat because it covers all of those areas.
Can a Pug wear clothes indoors?
Yes, in the right style. The Indoor/Outdoor Bodysuit is made to wear inside and out and is good for lounging and sleeping. The Heavy Fleece Bodysuit is for outside wear only.
Can my dog go to the bathroom in a bodysuit?
Yes. Houndz in the Hood bodysuits are cut to allow all bodily functions.