How to measure your dog for a coat or harness

Two minutes with a soft tape measure saves a lot of returns. You need three measurements. If you don’t have a soft tape, use a piece of string and measure it against a ruler.

1. Neck

Measure around the neck where the collar normally sits.

2. Chest (girth)

Measure around the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs. This is the most important measurement for harnesses and coats.

3. Back length

Measure from the base of the neck (where the collar sits) along the spine to the base of the tail.

Tips for a good fit

• Measure with your dog standing, not sitting.
• Keep the tape snug but not tight. You should fit two fingers underneath.
• Check the brand’s own size chart; sizes vary a lot between brands.
• Between sizes? Check the brand’s advice. For coats, the bigger size is often more comfortable if it adjusts.
• Puppies grow fast, so re-measure every few weeks.

Ready to shop? See winter coats for small dogs or the harness picks.

Affiliate links: as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Picks are researched, not tested by Gizzy. Prices and availability are set by the retailer.