Soft, Smart, and Sustainable: Why We Choose Merino Wool for Our Dogs

A story that began with Mece’s first sweater...

When winter hits New York, the wind can be sharp and unrelenting. My pup Mece sheds a lot during this season, so I’ve always wanted to find her a sweater that keeps her warm and comfortable. But every time I put one on her, she would start scratching, shaking, and trying to wriggle out of it - as if saying, “I’d rather be cold than wear this thing.”

At first, I thought she simply didn’t like clothing. But soon I realized the problem wasn’t her, it was the material. Most dog sweaters on the market are made of acrylic, a synthetic fiber that traps heat, builds static, and causes itching (so guys, material really matters - always take a look at the product details before you buy!). Too often, those sweaters focus on looks rather than comfort :/

That’s when we discovered Merino wool, and everything changed.

What Makes Merino Wool So Special

Merino wool comes from Merino sheep, often called the aristocrats of wool, raised in the cool climates of Australia and New Zealand. Unlike ordinary wool, Merino fibers are extremely fine and soft (about one-tenth the diameter of a human hair) which makes them feel luxuriously smooth and never scratchy.

At Cave Canem, we use 26/2NM 100% 90S ultra-fine Merino wool, with an average fiber diameter of 17.5 microns. It’s the same fineness used in luxury cashmere-style knitwear. With a fineness of 17.5μm, our Merino wool sits at the top of the softness scale, so fine that even short-haired dogs can wear it comfortably next to their skin, like wrapping them in a cloud of warmth and comfort.

• Naturally Breathable Antibacterial & Odor-Resistant: Merino wool can absorb over 35% of its weight in moisture and release it into the air, keeping your dog fresh and comfortable, even after long walks or naps by the heater. Its fibers contain fatty acids and amino acids that help break down odor-causing microbes. That means your dog’s sweater stays clean longer, with fewer washes needed.
• Naturally Anti-Static: Made of keratin, a natural protein that helps release static, Merino wool maintains gentle moisture within its fibers to prevent buildup. Unlike synthetic fabrics, it doesn’t cling, crackle, or attract loose hair, keeping your dog comfy and static-free even in dry winter air.
  
• Lightweight but Exceptionally Durable: Softness doesn’t mean fragility. Merino fibers are strong, elastic, and resilient. They maintain their loft and shape even after repeated wear, stretching, and washing. Your dog can roll, play, and snuggle, and the sweater will still look beautiful :)

100% Merino, Not a Blend

We believe in honesty and quality from fiber to finish. Every Cave Canem sweater is made from 100% Merino wool, not a blend.

Many garments labeled “wool” contain as little as 10% wool content, mixed with synthetic fibers. But low percentages can’t deliver the breathability, softness, or warmth that pure Merino offers. Our sweaters are crafted entirely from natural fibers, no acrylics, no blends, ensuring your dog feels the difference in every thread (So guys, again do look at product material information before making a purchase).

The Cave Canem Difference

Each Cave Canem sweater is made from ultra-fine 100% Merino wool to provide durable, breathable, and easy to care for. The design features a timeless turtleneck silhouette paired with vintage-style metal buttons, allowing it to be worn two ways: as a high neck for long-necked dogs like greyhounds, or folded down as a classic collar for breeds such as corgis and dachshunds. 

At Cave Canem, we believe comfort begins with the right material.

That’s why, for us, Merino isn’t just wool - it’s love woven into every thread.

SHOP THE LUTETIA MERINO SWEATER NOW➔