When we have to buy a harness, especially on-line and we can’t have our furry friend try it on, the problem is trickier and always the same: how to correctly measure a dog. However, this is not as difficult as it seems…
Measuring a dog is really easy, you just need to know how to do it. First get a tape measure, essential when taking measurements. Next, have the dog stand on its four legs (not sitting) and take measurements meaning neck (measurement A) and chest (measurement B).
- A) Measuring the dog’s neck: the neck is measured by wrapping the tape measure around the circumference of the neck near the base; it is important that the tape measure is well-fit but not tight so leave two fingers between the tape measure and the fur to ensure a certain margin of fit (the harness should not be too tight).
- B) Measuring the dog’s chest: take this measurement by wrapping the tape measure around the dog’s chest, at the point immediately behind the front legs; here too, the tape measure should be well-bit but not tight so leave two fingers between the tape measure and the fur to ensure a certain margin of fit.
A few simple steps and voilà, you’re done: you just need to know how to measure. Now you only have to compare the measurements, meaning neck = A and chest = B, with those of the harness you want to buy and then pick the right size. To be certain you get it right, we’ll show you how to measure your dog in this short video.
If, on the other hand, you want to buy a coat, you need to measure the dog’s back and this article will tell you how.