How to Measure Your Dog

Just like us, every dog is built differently. Taking accurate measurements ensures your dog’s gear fits comfortably and performs as it should – whether it’s a harness, jacket, or jumper.

Measuring only takes a few minutes and makes all the difference in finding the right fit.

What You’ll Need

• A soft measuring tape (or a piece of string and a ruler)
• Pen and paper
• A helper, if possible
• Plenty of treats – to reward good behaviour and keep things calm

💡 Tip: If your dog is wriggly, have someone hold them steady while you measure.

 

Before You Start

• Remove collars, harnesses, or clothing.
• Give your dog a quick brush to smooth out their coat, especially around the neck and shoulders.
• Measure while your dog is standing naturally on all fours for the most accurate results.

1. Body Length

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

This is your dog’s length measurement – often used for coats, jumpers, and full-body clothing.

✏️ Tip: Keep the tape measure flat against the body, not following the curve of the fur.

2. Girth (Chest)

Measure around the widest part of your dog’s chest, just behind the front legs.

This is your dog’s girth measurement – the most important size for harnesses, coats, and vests.

✅ Use treats to keep your dog standing tall while you measure.

3. Neck

Wrap the tape measure around the base of the neck where the collar would naturally sit.
This is your neck measurement – used for collars, bandanas, and fitted harnesses.

 

Additional Measurements (for Custom Fits)

If you’re ordering a custom coat or tailored gear, you may also need:

• Neck Length – From where the collar sits up to the base of the skull. Useful for coats with a turtleneck or extra neck coverage.
• Waist – Around the belly, just behind the ribcage and before the hips.
• Chest (Front Width) – Across the front of the chest from one elbow to the other.
• Elbow to Elbow (Over the Back) – From one elbow to the other across the top of the shoulders. Helpful for custom coat patterns and tailored fits.

 

Compare Your Measurements

Once you’ve got your numbers, check them against the SniffLab Size Guide or the product’s individual size chart.

Match your dog’s girth, length, and neck to the closest fit.

📏 If your dog’s measurements fall between sizes, choose the larger option for comfort.

Remember, breed charts are a rough guide – measurements are always more reliable than guessing by breed.

 

Quick Summary

 

 

Useful resources

• Download How to Measure Your Dog (.pdf)
• Measure Your Dog the Right Way
• Dog Size Guide

 

At SniffLab™, we believe fit equals comfort.

Taking a few minutes to measure now ensures your dog’s gear moves naturally, feels right, and keeps adventures calm and enjoyable.