It's a must-have for the well-appointed dog, and pet jewelry isn't just for the small breeds anymore. Today's dog jewelry comes in a wide variety of styles to suit dogs of all sizes, breeds, and genders. Think your rugged male St. Bernard would look silly wearing jewelry? Guess again! There's something out there for every pet, and with all these choices . . . what's a dog to do?

There are basically four main categories in pet jewelry: necklaces, branklets, charms, and barrettes.

Necklaces come in a wide variety of materials and styles, and just like the human version are designed to be worn around the neck. Many of them have sterling silver clasps for durability, and rugged construction and style to withstand the rigors of a dog's life. Costume jewelry is cute, inexpensive, and you can buy enough of it to match your own outfit or the whims of the day. Costume jewelry is usually made out of synthetic materials and can mimic crystals, pearls, gemstones, and other beads. In a Southwestern mood? Put your pooch in a leather and turquoise necklace. Looking for something dainty for your toy breed? Try a personalized rhinestone necklace. Does your dog have a larger . . . er . . . bone structure? There are chunkier versions out there designed specifically for bigger dogs.

If you are looking for a piece for a special occasion, pamper your pet with a piece of fine jewelry. There are custom-made creations made of fine materials for owners who are looking for something really unique. Pet necklaces made of Swarovski Austrian crystal are particularly popular, and come in a variety of styles and colors.

Branklets are pet jewelry's latest offering. A branklet gives the owner a choice. Put it above your pet's front paw knuckle, and you have a bracelet. Put it above your pet's hind leg knee, and you have an anklet. Branklets come in a variety of styles and materialsfrom dainty jeweled leather to more casual denim, from chunky studded leather to Southwesternand are appropriate for dogs of all sizes and breeds. For those seeking a really put-together look, branklets often come with matching collars.

Charms are a more understated form of pet jewelry, but can really say a lot about the personality of the petor its owner. Charms are designed to attach to the collar and can be understated, humorous, practical, sporty, or regal. Have a dog with an attitude? Help him express it with a pewter charm that says "talk to the tail" or "spoiled rotten." If you are looking for something practical, try an understated charm with your dog's name. Charms are ideal for male dogs, as there are lots of sports- and hobby-related charms to choose from.

Barrettes are another form of pet jewelry that is popular, though they are less versatile than the other types of dog adornments. First of all, they don't work for short-haired dogs, are not practical for outside dogs, and for male dogs, well, we won't even go there! However, barrettes are very cute on smaller indoor breeds and lap dogs with plenty of hair.

Pet jewelry is lots of fun and a great way to express your personality and that of your pet. Bring on the bling bling!