Materials that don’t lie

Materials come into direct contact with the dog’s skin, coat and movement every day.

When they are not suitable, the issue is not only aesthetic. They can increase friction, retain moisture, complicate coat management or make movement less comfortable over time.

For this reason, materials are evaluated through real-life use — not only through marketing descriptions or first impressions.

Materials that create friction

Some fabrics tend to create continuous resistance against the coat, especially on medium, long or fine coats.

Common examples include:

• synthetic fleece
• rigid canvas
• coarse cotton
• fabrics with rough or irregular surfaces

Over time, this may contribute to:

• matting and knots
• coat breakage
• a coat that becomes harder to manage

Materials that do not breathe properly

Some synthetic materials trap moisture and heat without allowing proper airflow.

They are often found in:

• plastic-coated raincoats
• low-quality nylon
• very closed synthetic fabrics without technical structure

When the coat cannot dry correctly, moisture may remain trapped between the skin and the coat.

Over time, this may contribute to:

• matting and knots
• a constantly damp coat
• increased skin sensitivity
• irritation and dermatitis

Rigid materials

A material should not simply “look good”. It should move naturally with the dog’s body.

Some rigid or poorly adaptive fabrics may create tension and interfere with natural movement.

This happens especially when:

• the fabric does not follow movement
• the structure remains stiff across the chest or shoulders
• the garment shifts or pulls during walking

Wool

Wool is not automatically suitable for direct contact with the dog.

Even when it is high quality, wool maintains a fibrous structure that may increase friction and matting on the coat.

In addition, if not processed correctly, it may retain lanolin residues that particularly sensitive dogs may tolerate less easily.

For this reason, wool generally makes more sense as an outer layer rather than in direct contact with skin and coat.

A well-constructed wool coat should always include a suitable inner lining designed to reduce friction and improve coat comfort and manageability.

The materials we look for

Materials that come into direct contact with the dog should support the coat — not complicate its management.

For this reason, we prioritise materials that:

• do not create excessive friction
• do not unnecessarily trap moisture
• follow the body’s movement
• feel gentler on skin and coat

These include:

• high-quality cotton
• silk
• soft, well-constructed bouclé
• carefully selected breathable technical fabrics

The right material should not simply appear pleasant.
It should continue to function well in everyday life.

If you need help understanding or choosing materials, you can contact us directly on WhatsApp.

Brands wishing to present their collections may contact:
info@dixystore.com