How to Measure for a Dog Sweater

Dog garment manufacturing and sales is a growing industry in North America. Whether for fashion, or to provide warmth, an increasing number of dogs are seen sporting fitted, warm winter coats and sweaters. Dogs, like humans, come in a wide range of sizes. Unlike amenities available for selecting clothes for yourself, canine garments are often purchased without trying them on in a doggie fitting room. Three measurements are needed to select a well-fitted sweater for your dog. Taking measurements takes only a few minutes.

Things You'll Need

  • Tailor's measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Wrap the measuring tape around the base of your dog's neck. Hold the two ends of the tape together so the tape fits like a collar with enough room to slip two fingers between the tape and the dog's neck. Write down the measurement.

    • 2

      Measure between the base of the dog's neck to the base of its tail. Write down this measurement. Some sweater manufacturers refer to this dimension as the "top-line" measurement.

    • 3

      Measure from the base of the dog's neck, down the back bone, to the base of the tail. Write down this measurement.

    • 4

      Bring these measurements with you to the store and cross reference them with the size tags on the sweater to find one that fits.