Measure Your Dog the Right Way

Whether you’re sizing a harness, buying a bed, or just curious how your dog is growing, accurate measurements matter. At SniffLab™, we believe good gear and calm routines start with a proper fit. Measuring your dog the right way ensures comfort, safety and that your dog can move, sniff and settle naturally.

Let’s walk through why it matters, what to measure, how to do it – and a few helpful tips for even the wiggliest of pups.

 

Why Measuring Matters

A poor fit isn’t just an inconvenience – it can affect your dog’s comfort and wellbeing. Ill-fitting gear can cause chafing, restricted movement, slipping harnesses, or even anxiety.

When your dog’s gear, bed or mat fits well:

• They can relax and sniff without awkward restrictions
• Training cues like “Place” or “Settle” feel natural and safe
• You reduce the risk of escapes or discomfort

Think of measuring as the first step in thoughtful gear design – a core principle at SniffLab™.

 

What Measurements You Should Take

Here are the key sizes you’ll want to record:

• Neck Girth: Wrap a flexible tape around the base of your dog’s neck where the collar sits. Leave room for two fingers underneath for comfort.
• Chest Girth: Measure the widest part of your dog’s ribcage, just behind the front legs. This matters for harnesses and coats.
• Back Length: From the base of the neck (where the collar would sit) along the spine to the base of the tail. Useful for coats, mats, beds.
• Height at Withers: With your dog standing square on a flat surface, measure from the floor to the highest point of their shoulder blades (the withers).

Recording these measurements gives you a reliable reference – for sizing gear now and for tracking your dog’s growth over time.

👉 See also: How to Measure Your Dog

 

How to Measure (Step-by-Step)

Here’s how to make the process smooth, calm and accurate:

1. Choose a Calm Moment

Pick a time when your dog is relaxed (after a short sniff session is ideal). Use a flexible tape measure, treat reinforcers and gentle voice.

2. Gather Your Tools

• Fabric measuring tape (non-stretch)
• Notebook or phone to jot down measurements
• A helper if your dog needs gentle encouragement
• A treat or toy to hold your dog’s attention

3. Take Each Measurement

Neck Girth

Wrap the tape around the base of the neck where the collar sits. Ensure it’s snug but allowing two fingers’ space.

Chest Girth

Have the dog stand square. Wrap the tape around the ribcage behind the front legs.

Back Length

With the dog standing naturally, measure from the base of the neck along the spine to the base of the tail.

Height at Withers

Have your dog stand next to a wall on a flat surface. Measure from the floor up to the top of their shoulder blades.

4. Record & Review

Write down each measurement with date. If your dog’s gear feels off, refer back to these numbers before sizing up or down.

5. Fit with Comfort in Mind

When sizing gear, always ensure the fit allows for natural movement, breathing and sniffing. Avoid overly tight or too loose – both can cause stress or discomfort.

 

SniffLab™ Tip: Why Fit Affects Calm

When gear fits well, your dog feels safe and relaxed. Poor fit can lead to subtle stress – shifting harnesses, rubbing collars or restricted movement. And when a dog’s body is unsettled, their nervous system stays on alert.

Marley, our four-year-old Australian Kelpie, taught us this the hard way. We once ordered his coat based purely on breed size – and he spent the first 10 minutes of wear scratching and fussing. We measured him properly the next day and sized up based on his real girth. He settled instantly. Fit matters.

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Measuring on carpet or uneven floor – always use a flat, hard surface for height.
• Measuring when the dog is excited or stretched – they need to stand naturally.
• Guessing size based on breed alone – individual dogs vary, even within breeds.
• Skipping repeat measurements – dogs grow (or change shape) and gear should reflect that.

 

Keeping Track Over Time

For puppies, large breeds, or dogs changing body condition, repeat measurements every few months. For adult dogs, a yearly check works well. Keeping a record means you can spot changes and adjust gear, training or wellbeing routines proactively.

 

Final Thoughts

Measuring your dog isn’t just about gear – it’s about creating comfort, freedom and calm. When your dog can move easily, rest naturally, and engage fully (sniffing included), you’re feeding more than their body – you’re nurturing their wellbeing.

So take the tape, give your dog a treat, record the numbers – and step back. Let them do the sniffing, exploring, and relaxing in something that genuinely fits.

Because calm starts with the right fit.