Measuring your Dog for Clothes

The picture below will show you how to accurately measure your dogs length, neck and girth/chest measurement to help you get the right fit first time.

Back: The back measurement is taken from the collar (base of neck) to the top of the tail (where the tail joins the body)

Girth/Chest: This measurement if taken around the circumference of the deepest part of the chest, this is usually behind the front legs.  Take a close fitting measurement right around your dogs chest.

Neck: This is the circumference at the base of the neck, usually where your dogs collar sits. Take a close fitting measurement right around your dogs neck.

As there is no international standard when it comes to dog clothing or life jackets, it is recommended to double check your pets measurements against the chart provided for each individual product.  Sizing can vary greatly between brands and a large in one brand may be completely different in another. 

If you need help with measuring your dog or choosing the best garment fit, please feel free to contact us on 021 669 280 or email: sales@furrkids.co.nz

For some items like life jackets you may need to consider your dogs weight as well.  When measuring your dog for a life jacket it is important to get a good firm fit so it is not sloppy when they are swimming and a firm fit if you need to retrieve your dog from overboard a boat.  If possible, a jacket with the right weight range support for your dog will ensure the best safety and assistance that the life jacket is designed for. 

Important things to note:

When choosing the size that best fits your pet there are a couple of factors that are important.  The correct fit around the chest is imperative.  If a garment is too tight around the chest it will cut into the underarms causing discomfort and irritation, if it is too loose your dog may be able to step out of it or get its legs tangled inside the garment.

Making sure the fit around the neck is obvious - too tight and it could obstruct your dogs breathing.

While length is important to choose a well balanced fit, some garments do not necessarily need to go all the way down the dogs back - when selecting a dress, sweater, coat, etc. this length is usually designed to be close to the base of your pet’s tail. Hoodies, tanks, tees, etc. can be worn as a 3/4 midriff fit.  If you need any help in choosing the right size for your pet please feel free to contact us.

If your pet’s measurements fall in between two sizes, we suggest ordering the next size up.

TIP: Use a fabric or cloth measuring tape when determining your pet’s measurements. Should you not have one, use a piece of yarn or string and measure it up against a ruler.