FurSize / How to measure a dog
How to measure a dog
Four measurements cover almost every harness, collar and coat chart. Chest is the one you will use most. Do it standing, tape snug, two fingers of room.
- 1 ChestWidest part of the ribs, just behind the front legs.
- 2 NeckWhere a collar would sit.
- 3 BackAlong the spine, neck base to tail base.
What you need
A soft tape, the kind used for sewing. No tape? Use string, mark where it meets, then lay it against a ruler. A second person with a treat makes it easier.
The four measurements
| Measure | Where the tape goes | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Chest | Widest part of the ribcage, just behind the front legs, around the whole body. | Harnesses, vests, coats |
| Neck | Where the collar sits, with two fingers under the tape. | Collars, some harnesses |
| Back length | Base of the neck to the base of the tail, along the spine. | Coats, sweaters |
| Height | Floor to the top of the shoulders (the withers), standing square. | Crates, ramps, some coats |
DRAG THE TAPE
Centimeters to inches, by hand
Write down both units
US shops use inches and lb. Many brands print centimeters. Note both so you can read any chart without converting in the cart. FurSize shows the chest in cm with inches beside it for that reason.
Weight is not a substitute
Two dogs at the same weight can have noticeably different chests. Weight is fine for a first guess, and the dog size calculator does that. Before you buy, use the tape.
Questions
Which measurement matters most?
Chest girth. Harness charts, coat charts and most vest charts all start there. Neck matters for collars. Back length matters mainly for coats and sweaters.
Should I measure over fur?
Yes, but press the fur flat first. A thick coat can add a centimeter or two, and the harness will sit over it anyway.
How often should I re-measure?
Monthly for a puppy under a year. A grown dog only needs it again after a big weight change or a haircut that is not routine.
Get a number you can reuse.
Type your dog's chest once. See the right size in every brand we cover.
