How To Measure Your Dog For A Harness

Finding the perfect harness for your dog starts with getting the right measurements. A harness that’s too tight can cause discomfort, while one that’s too loose can slip off or allow your dog to pull.

Proper sizing ensures your dog walks comfortably, and it also helps prevent injuries from incorrect pressure on their neck and chest.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to measure your dog for a harness, along with tips on choosing the best fit.

🐾 What You’ll Need

• A soft measuring tape (cloth or flexible plastic)
• A pen and paper to jot down measurements
• Your dog’s usual walking space or a calm area to measure them

If you don’t have a tape measure, you can use a piece of string and then measure it with a ruler.

📏 Step 1: Measure Your Dog’s Neck

The first measurement is around your dog’s neck, where the collar usually sits. This ensures the harness won’t rub or chafe. Here’s how to measure:

1.     Place the measuring tape around the thickest part of your dog’s neck, just above the shoulders.

2.     Allow a bit of wiggle room, ensuring the tape is not too tight. You should be able to slide two fingers comfortably between the tape and your dog’s neck.

3.     Write down the measurement in inches or centimetres.

This measurement helps to determine the correct fit for harnesses that go over the head, like overhead harnesses.

🐕 Step 2: Measure Your Dog’s Girth

The girth measurement is the most crucial for a harness. It’s the circumference around the widest part of your dog’s chest, just behind their front legs. Here’s how to measure:

1.     Wrap the measuring tape around the chest (just behind the front legs), where the harness will sit.

2.     Make sure the tape is snug but not tight. Again, you should be able to slip two fingers between the tape and your dog’s body.

3.     Note the measurement.

This measurement will help determine the overall fit of the harness. It's especially important for step-in or chest-harness designs.

🐾 Step 3: Measure Your Dog’s Back Length (Optional)

For some harness styles, particularly those with longer straps or for breeds with unusual body shapes, you may need to measure your dog’s back length:

1.     Start at the base of your dog’s neck, right at the top of their shoulder blades.

2.     Measure down the back to the base of the tail.

3.     Note the length.

While not all harnesses require this measurement, it's useful for dogs with longer bodies, such as Dachshunds or Corgis, to ensure the harness fits comfortably along their back.

💡 Tip: Compare Measurements with Size Guides

Once you have your measurements, check the harness size guide provided by the brand.

Every brand may have slightly different size charts, so make sure to match your dog’s measurements to the correct size.

If your dog is between sizes, it’s usually best to go for the larger option to avoid a tight fit.

At Waggs and Kisses, our tweed harnesses come with an easy-to-use size guide, and we recommend checking it before making a purchase.

🧸 Step 4: Consider the Fit and Adjustability

When you put the harness on your dog, make sure you can fit two fingers comfortably under the straps.

The harness should sit securely but not restrict movement. Ensure it doesn’t chafe, especially around the neck and chest areas.

Pro Tip: It’s a good idea to try the harness on your dog before going for a long walk, especially if it’s their first time wearing it.

Take them on a short walk around the house or garden to check if it stays in place and doesn’t cause discomfort.

🧵 Different Styles of Harnesses

Different harness styles may fit differently. For example:

• Step-In Harness: These harnesses often fit smaller dogs best. Make sure the straps are snug but not restrictive around the chest.
• Overhead Harness: These are often adjustable and great for medium to larger breeds. The neck opening should be wide enough to slip over your dog’s head without any discomfort.
• Vest Harness: Covers more surface area and works well for dogs who pull, as the pressure is distributed evenly across the chest.

We have a variety of tweed harnesses in different styles that suit a wide range of dog breeds, from small Chihuahuas to larger Labradors.

💬 Final Thoughts

Measuring your dog for a harness is a quick process that ensures you pick the right fit for their comfort and safety.

By getting the right size, you’ll be giving your dog the best possible experience during walks.

Whether you’re after a classic tweed design or a sportier option, taking the time to measure will make all the difference.