Dog Clothing Size Guide – How to Measure Your Dog
Finding the right fit makes all the difference when shopping for dog clothes online.
Whether you're choosing cosy dog pyjamas, a warm dog jumper, coat or jacket, taking a few simple measurements will help you select the most comfortable size for your dog.
Every dog is different, so we recommend measuring your dog rather than choosing a size based on breed or weight alone.
Follow our dog clothing size guide below to learn how to measure your dog's back, chest and neck before ordering.
What You Need to Measure Your Dog
All you need is a soft measuring tape and a few minutes.
For the most accurate measurements, have your dog standing naturally on a flat surface. Try not to measure while your dog is sitting or lying down, as this can change their body measurements.
You'll want to take three main measurements:
1. Back Length
2. Chest Girth
3. Neck Circumference
1. Measure Your Dog's Back Length
Measure along your dog's back from the base of the neck to the base of the tail.
Start where your dog's neck meets their shoulders (around where their collar naturally sits) and run the measuring tape along their spine to where the tail begins.
Keep your dog standing naturally and avoid measuring from the top of their head or to the end of their tail.
Why Back Length Matters
Back length is particularly important when choosing dog pyjamas, coats and other clothing designed to provide coverage along your dog's body.
A garment that's too short may not provide enough coverage, while one that's too long may bunch up or interfere with movement.
2. Measure Your Dog's Chest Girth
Next, measure around the widest part of your dog's chest, usually just behind the front legs.
Wrap the measuring tape around your dog's body, keeping it comfortably close without pulling it tight.
You should be able to comfortably fit one or two fingers between the tape and your dog.
Why Chest Measurement Is Important
Chest girth is often one of the most important measurements when selecting dog clothing.
If clothing is too tight around the chest, it may restrict movement or cause rubbing behind the front legs. If it's too loose, the garment may twist, slide or move out of position.
If your dog falls between two sizes, pay particular attention to the chest measurement and follow the sizing recommendations shown on the individual product page.
3. Measure Your Dog's Neck
Measure around your dog's neck where their collar would naturally sit.
The measuring tape should sit comfortably against the neck without being tight. Again, you should be able to fit approximately one or two fingers underneath.
The neck measurement is particularly useful when choosing clothing that needs to be pulled over your dog's head, including dog jumpers and sweaters.
What If My Dog Is Between Sizes?
It's completely normal for a dog's measurements not to fit perfectly into one size.
If your dog falls between two sizes, consider:
- Their chest measurement
- Whether the garment has stretch
- Your dog's body shape
- The style of clothing you're purchasing
- The individual product's size guide
For stretchy garments, such as some pyjamas and jumpers, there may be more flexibility in sizing. More structured garments, such as coats and jackets, may require additional room around the chest.
Always check the size chart on the individual product page before ordering, as sizing and fit can vary between different styles.
Don't Choose Dog Clothes by Breed Alone
Knowing your dog's breed can be helpful, but it shouldn't be the only factor you use when choosing a clothing size.
Even dogs of the same breed can have very different proportions.
For example, a Chihuahua may be particularly petite or have a broader chest, while Whippets and Greyhounds tend to have deep chests and narrow waists. Dachshunds have longer backs, and French Bulldogs often require additional room through the chest.
That's why taking your dog's actual measurements is the best place to start.
How Should Dog Clothes Fit?
The right dog clothing should feel comfortable and secure without restricting movement.
Once your dog's new outfit arrives, check that they can comfortably:
- Walk and move normally
- Sit and lie down
- Stretch
- Move their front legs freely
- Go to the toilet without the garment getting in the way
Pay particular attention to the neck, chest, armpits and leg openings.
The clothing shouldn't leave deep marks, rub against the skin or pull tightly across the body. It also shouldn't be so loose that it twists, slips or causes your dog's legs to become caught inside.
For general guidance on winter clothing and keeping pets comfortable during colder weather, you can also visit SPCA New Zealand.
Check the Size Guide on Each Product
Once you have your dog's measurements written down, you're ready to shop.
Because different styles can fit differently, always compare your measurements with the size chart provided on the individual product page before selecting your size.
Keeping your dog's measurements handy also makes shopping for their next outfit much easier.
And remember to re-measure occasionally, particularly for puppies, growing dogs or dogs whose weight has changed.
Find the Perfect Fit
Ready to find something they'll love wearing?
Explore our range of dog clothes, including cosy dog pyjamas, stylish dog jumpers and sweaters, coats, jackets and accessories for dogs across New Zealand and Australia.
