How do you measure a dog for a sweater? You need three measurements: chest girth at the widest point, neck girth and back length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. Chest girth matters most, because it decides whether the sweater will feel tight. Below I show you how to measure your dog step by step and how to choose the size for a Yorkie, a Maltese or a Dachshund.
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What do you need to measure your dog?
A soft tailor's tape measure, a treat and a quiet moment. If you don't have a tape measure, use a piece of string and measure it with a ruler afterwards. It is best to measure your dog while it is standing on all four paws, not sitting or lying down. A small dog will stand still more willingly if someone else gives it a treat at the same time.
How to measure a dog: 3 measurements step by step
1. Chest girth
Wrap the tape around the chest at its widest point, usually just behind the front legs. The tape should sit snugly but not squeeze: you should be able to fit two fingers between it and your dog's body. This is the most important measurement when choosing a size.
2. Neck girth
Measure the neck where the collar usually sits. This matters for turtleneck sweaters, because a turtleneck that is too tight will bother your dog, and one that is too loose will slip down.
3. Back length
Measure the distance from the base of the neck, where the neck ends, to the base of the tail. The sweater doesn't have to cover the whole back. What matters is that it doesn't get in the way when your dog does its business.
How to measure dogs of different breeds?
Body shape varies a lot between breeds, so how you measure your dog also depends on its build. What should you look out for?
- Yorkies and Maltese: have a small frame and long hair. Leave a little room so the sweater doesn't flatten the coat. You can read more about the breed in the Yorkshire Terrier entry.
- Dachshunds: have a long back and a broad chest on short legs. Go mainly by chest girth, and check the length separately.
- Greyhounds and whippets: have a deep chest and a very narrow waist, so a sweater that fits the chest may be loose at the waist. That is normal.
- French Bulldogs and pugs: have a broad chest and a short neck. Pay particular attention to the neck girth.
How to record your dog's measurements?
Write down all three measurements in centimetres and add your dog's weight and breed. This information will come in handy for every purchase, not only a sweater but also a harness or a coat. It is worth measuring your dog again after a few months, because puppies grow fast and adult dogs can change shape after winter.
- Chest girth: the most important measurement when choosing a size.
- Neck girth: key for turtleneck and hooded sweaters.
- Back length: from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.
- Weight and breed: help us advise you if your dog is between sizes.
When does a dog need a sweater?
A sweater is useful above all for small dogs, short-haired dogs, puppies and seniors. They lose heat quickly on autumn and winter walks, especially in wind and damp. If your dog shivers on a walk, lifts its paws or wants to go home quickly, it is a sign that it feels cold. That is when it is worth knowing how to measure your dog and choosing a comfortable, warm sweater for it.
Is your dog between sizes?
Choose the larger size, especially if your dog has a thick coat. A sweater that is too tight restricts movement and may rub under the front legs. If you are unsure, write to us with all three measurements and we will help you choose the size before you order.
The most common mistakes when measuring a dog
- Measuring a dog that is sitting or lying down: the chest and back measurements come out different.
- Pulling the tape too tight: the measurement comes out too small.
- Measuring only the fur instead of the body: with long-haired dogs, press the tape against the skin.
- Skipping the neck girth for turtleneck sweaters.
How to get your dog used to a sweater?
Put the sweater on for the first time at home, for a few minutes, and reward your dog with a treat. Gradually extend the time. Most dogs quickly associate the sweater with going for a walk and will put their head through it themselves.
Summary
Now you know how to measure your dog: chest girth, neck girth and back length, always standing and with two fingers of room. We knit our dog sweaters by hand, on needles, only once you place your order. See the whole collection of dog clothes, and if you would like to match your pet, take a look at our sweaters for people.
