How to Measure Leash Size for a Dog

There is no one leash that's a perfect fit for every dog. Much of choosing the right leash size is about determining what is comfortable for the owner as well as the dog. You can get a general idea of what length and width of dog leash will be most comfortable by finding the distance between you and your dog during a walk. The right length will allow you to walk naturally with your arms down while holding the leash.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the height of your dog from floor to neck with the measuring tape. Do this when your dog is in a standing position.

    • 2

      Measure the height from the floor to your waist. Do this while you are in a standing position. You may need to mark with a pencil on the wall the level of your waist to get this measurement or have someone else do the measuring.

    • 3

      Subtract your height from floor to waist with the height of your dog from floor to neck. For example, if your dog measures 2 feet and you measure 3 feet, then you would get 1 foot. If your dog is taller than your waist, then use 0 feet.

    • 4

      Add 3 to 6 feet to the difference in heights. This gives you the range of leash length that would give you and your dog a comfortable walk without the leash being too short or too long so that you or your dog don't trip over it. Using the example from above, if the difference in height is 1 foot, you would want a leash about 4 to 7 feet long.

    • 5

      Determine the overall size of your dog. If your dog is a small breed such as a Jack Russell terrier or pug, then purchase a leash with a thin width of 1/2 inch or less. Wider leashes can be heavier and weigh your dog down if there's any slack in the leash. For medium to large breeds, choose a leash with a width of 1/2 inch to 1 inch in width. Heavier dogs need a sturdier leash, which the wider leashes provide.