What You Need Before You Start
Before you begin measuring, make sure that you have a flexible tape measure and a piece of paper handy (or simply use the notes app on your phone). If available, have someone help assist in holding your pup still during this process. Additionally, it’s helpful to have some treats on hand as positive reinforcement for staying still during this process.
Measuring Neck Size
To measure neck size, wrap the tape measure around the widest part of your pup's neck. Make sure that it is snug, but not too tight—you should be able to fit two fingers between the tape and your pup's fur. After taking note of that measurement move onto the next step.
Measure Chest Size
For this step it’s important to move up an inch or two from where the neck measurement ended. Wrap the tape around your pup’s chest at its widest point—this should be just behind their front legs. Again make sure it is snug but not too tight—if possible fit two fingers between this measurement and your pup’s fur as well. Record this number when done and then take one last measurement before moving onto deciding which harness size is best for them.
Measure Girth Size
The final step in measuring is taking girth measurements—which are taken at both ends of your pups rib cage (the broader area located toward their back). Take these measurements by wrapping the tape around their girth at each end of their rib cage and recording those numbers once finished. These measurements will further ensure that you select an appropriate size harness for them.
Measuring your pup correctly will help make sure they stay safe while wearing a harness outdoors. Now that we have gone through all steps involved in measuring dogs properly, you should be armed with enough information to pick out a suitable sized harness for them! All that's left now is finding one with style! Happy shopping!
