The right fit makes all the difference to comfort and safety. A soft tape measure and two minutes are all you need. Always measure in centimetres and measure your dog while they are standing calmly (or lying down for beds).
Every product page lists that brand's exact sizes – sizing varies between makers, so please check your measurements against the size chart on the product you are buying.
Collars: measuring the neck
- Wrap the tape around the middle of your dog's neck, where a collar would naturally sit.
- Keep the tape snug but not tight.
- Apply the two-finger rule: you should be able to slide two fingers flat between the tape and your dog's neck. Note this measurement.
- Choose a collar whose adjustable range has your measurement near the middle, so there is room to loosen or tighten.
Harnesses & coats: chest girth and back length
- Chest girth: measure around the widest part of the ribcage, just behind the front legs. Keep two fingers' room under the tape.
- Neck: for harnesses with a neck strap, measure the base of the neck where it meets the shoulders.
- Back length (coats): measure along the spine from the base of the neck (where the collar sits) to the base of the tail.
Chest girth is usually the deciding measurement for harnesses and coats. Deep-chested breeds such as sighthounds and broad-chested breeds such as French Bulldogs may need a brand's “wide fit” or a size up.
Beds: measuring your dog lying down
- Wait until your dog is asleep or lying in their usual sleeping position.
- Measure from the tip of the nose to the base of the tail.
- Add around 15–25cm so they can stretch out comfortably. Dogs that sprawl need the larger end; dogs that curl up can choose a snug bolster or donut bed.
- Compare this with the bed's inner sleeping area, not just the outer dimensions.
Quick tips
- Between sizes? Go up. Collars, harnesses and coats can be adjusted down; a size too small cannot be made bigger.
- Measure in cm and round up to the nearest whole number.
- Puppies grow quickly – re-measure every couple of weeks and choose adjustable designs.
- Fluffy coats: press the tape through the fur so it sits against the body.
- Check the fit again after the first few walks – straps can settle.
Typical ranges by breed
Typical ranges, always measure your dog. These figures are approximate adult measurements drawn from widely published sizing; individual dogs vary considerably with age, build and coat.
| Breed (adult) | Neck (approx.) | Chest girth (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Chihuahua | 18–25cm | 25–38cm |
| Yorkshire Terrier | 20–28cm | 30–40cm |
| Miniature Dachshund | 25–33cm | 35–48cm |
| Jack Russell Terrier | 28–36cm | 40–50cm |
| Whippet | 28–36cm | 55–68cm |
| Cocker Spaniel | 35–43cm | 55–70cm |
| French Bulldog | 35–46cm | 55–72cm |
| Border Collie | 38–48cm | 60–76cm |
| Staffordshire Bull Terrier | 40–50cm | 60–76cm |
| Labrador Retriever | 43–56cm | 70–90cm |
| Golden Retriever | 43–56cm | 70–90cm |
| German Shepherd | 45–60cm | 75–95cm |
Not sure which size to choose? Get in touch with your dog's measurements and breed and we'll be happy to help.