The Ultimate Guide: How to Measure Your Dog for a Harness
If you've decided to get a harness for your dog, you're making a wise choice. Harnesses offer better control, comfort, and safety compared to traditional collars. However, to enjoy these benefits to the fullest, you must ensure that the harness fits your pet perfectly.
In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to accurately measure your dog for a harness, ensuring a snug and secure fit.
Why Proper Measurement Matters
Proper measurement is crucial for several reasons:
- Comfort: An ill-fitting harness can cause discomfort, chafing, or even restrict your dog's movement.
- Safety: A well-fitted harness ensures that your dog can't slip out of it, keeping them secure during walks.
- Control: The right fit allows you to have better control over your dog, especially if they tend to pull on the leash.
Tools You'll Need
Before you start, gather these essential tools:
- A soft tape measure
- A notepad and pen
- Treats for motivation (your dog will appreciate them)
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Measure Your Dog for a Harness
- Measure the Chest Girth: Start by measuring the widest part of your dog's chest, typically just behind their front legs. Use the soft tape measure to encircle their chest, ensuring it's snug but not tight.
- Measure the Neck Girth: Next, measure your dog's neck girth, which is around the base of their neck, close to the shoulders and multiple the neck by two. Again, ensure it's snug but not constricting.
For additional information check out our video on the website.
Additional Tips:
- Ensure your dog is standing upright and relaxed during measurements.
- Use a soft tape measure to prevent any discomfort or pulling on your dog's skin.
- Measure a few times to ensure accuracy, and use the average measurement if there's a slight difference.
- If your dog has thick fur, consider parting it to measure the skin directly, as fur can add extra bulk.
- Always measure your dog's dimensions when they are at their normal, comfortable size. Avoid measuring them immediately after a meal or exercise when they might be swollen or expanded.
Using the Measurements
Now that you have your dog's chest girth and neck girth, you can refer to the manufacturer's sizing guide when purchasing a harness. Keep in mind that sizing may vary between different brands and harness types, so make sure to consult the specific sizing chart for the harness you're interested in.
When trying on the harness, adjust it to the measurements you've taken, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit. The harness should be nice and snug so there isn’t movement when it is on your pup. If the harness has multiple adjustment points, make sure it's evenly adjusted on both sides.
A well-fitted harness will not only enhance your dog's walking experience but also give you peace of mind that they are safe and comfortable during your adventures together.