Dog owners are repeatedly ignoring veterinary advice and dressing their dogs, new figures reveal.

Despite veterinary professionals saying that the majority of dog breeds don’t need to wear clothes, 81 per cent of owners are dressing up their pets with coats.

According to new research by Direct Line Pet Insurance, the clothing of the animals is leading to skin complaints and fleas.

Thirty-two per cent of vets said dressing a dog in clothes can cause it to rub against the skin, while 27 per cent said it can cause stress.

The insurance provider has partnered with Pawsquad, an animal veterinary care organisation to conduct the research.

Dr Andrew Francis, chief operations officer at Pawsquad said: “Skin disease is the most common reason for people seeking an online veterinary consultation. Owners should be mindful that sometimes putting their dogs in clothing can cause skin damage, as added materials can irritate a dog’s skin.”

Forty-two per cent of dog owners would choose to try and treat a skin complaint at home rather than visit a vet, an option that Dr Francis would disagree with.

He said: “Skin disease, while easily treated, can cause problems if left for a long time. If any owner is concerned their dog may be suffering from skin disease they should speak to a vet.”

The most susceptible breed to skin conditions is the West Highland White Terrier, with 70 per cent of vets and veterinary nurses identifying the breed.

Labradors are half as likely to have skin issues, but are still situated as the second highest on the list behind the Terrier.

The insurance company is setting up a video call with Pawsquad to offer customers access to a live chat stream instead of visiting a vet.

Prit Powar, head of pet insurance at Direct Line said: “We would always urge customers to see a vet in person if it is an emergency but for those cases, like skin disease, which may not need a face to face meeting, the service will be invaluable.”