How do I measure my dog correctly for a collar, chain collar and dog harness?
Regardless of whether you choose a collar, chain collar or harness for your dog, they will only work safely and reliably if you choose the right size and fit them correctly.
If they are incorrectly fitted, they can not only be uncomfortable for your dog, but can even harm them. In our blog post, we tell you where and how to measure your dog correctly, choose the right size for your dog equipment and everything else you need to know about "How to measure a dog"!
Measuring your dog’s length
If you want to measure your dog’s full length , measure your dog whilst it is standing. Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, taking the measurement from the side.
This measurement can be helpful, for example, when choosing dog beds or travel crates.
Measuring your dog’s back length
Your dog’s back length is a measurement you’ll need quite often. It’s required, for example, when choosing dog coats, other dog clothing or certain dog harnesses.
To measure your dog’s back length, measure from the withers to the base of the tail.
Where is the withers on a dog?
The withers on a dog are the point between the shoulder blades where the back meets the neck. When your dog lowers its head, this point is clearly recognisable as the highest point on the dog’s body.
The withers are used, for example, in dog breeding and are defined as a breed standard for various dog breeds.
How do you measure a dog’s height?
Are you wondering how to measure a dog’s height? Here, too, you’ll need the withers!
To measure your dog’s height, place him on a smooth, hard surface. Make sure he is standing relaxed and upright, then measure along his front leg from the ground to the withers – and there you have it: your dog’s height, or what is known as his ‘height at the withers’!
What does ‘shoulder height’ mean in dogs?
A dog’s shoulder height is measured at the highest point of the shoulder blade. As this point corresponds to the dog’s withers , the dog’s shoulder height is identical to its height at the withers or its size.
Dog Size Chart
Dogs are broadly divided into three categories based on their height at the withers:
- Small dogs measuring under 39 cm.
- Medium-sized dogs measuring between 40 cm and 59 cm.
- Large dogs measuring 60 cm or more.
Please note: Depending on the federal state or local authority, dogs with a height at the withers of 40 cm or more may already be classified as large dogs, which must be registered with the local authority.
Measuring your dog’s chest circumference
Your dog’s chest circumference is one of the most important measurements, for example when choosing the right size of dog harness. Depending on the manufacturer, this measurement may also be referred to as the belly circumference.
You should measure your dog’s chest circumference about a hand’s width away from the front leg. The tape measure should rest on the dog’s coat but still be easy to move around.
How do you measure a dog’s chest width?
The chest depth measurement is also one of the measurements relevant for a dog harness.
To measure the chest depth for a harness, measure from the highest point of your dog’s sternum to a hand’s width behind the front leg.
Find outwhich other measurements you need for a dog harness in our blog post!
Measuring a dog’s waist circumference
Measuring a dog’s waist circumference is important for certain types of dog clothing or for safety harnesses. With this type of harness, the third strap sits at the narrowest part of the body to prevent the dog from wriggling out.
Accordingly, measure the waist circumference at the narrowest part of the body, between the chest and the hind leg. Here, too, you should ensure that the tape measure lies flat against the dog but does not constrict them.
Please note: For male dogs, you should ensure whilst measuring that the strap will not sit too close to the genitals.
Measuring your dog’s neck circumference
Measuring your dog’s neck circumference correctly is actually quite simple:
First, you need to find the right spot on your dog’s neck. The rule here is: measure where the collar, chain or other equipment should sit at the back of the neck.
To ensure the fit is right, place the tape measure around your dog’s neck so that it lies flat against the fur and can be moved easily – ideally, you should be able to fit a finger between the tape measure and your dog’s neck.
Need more help choosing the right dog collar length? Then take a look at our blog post on dog collar sizes!
Measuring your dog’s head circumference
Some manufacturers recommend that you also measure your dog’s head circumference when choosing a collar, and you might be wondering: why do I need my dog’s head circumference?
The answer: For any dog gear that doesn’t have a fastening but needs to be pulled over your dog’s head, it’s important to check the product measurements against your dog’s head circumference.
You measure your dog’s head circumference at the widest part of the head, which is usually just in front of the ears.
