How to Measure for a Weight Pull Harness for Dogs

Weight pulling is a canine sport that is an expansion of dog sledding, although occasionally breeds other than the northern sled dogs are used. The harnesses can be constructed of the same material as sled dog harnesses or slightly heavier, stronger components. Some manufacturers custom make the harness to the dog̵7;s measurements. Others manufacture a number of stock harness sizes and select the proper harness based on the measurements provided by the dog owner. Different manufacturers require different measurements, although there are three basic dimensions commonly used.

Things You'll Need

  • Flexible or cloth tape measure
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the neck of the dog. Hold one end of the tape measure at the point of the withers where the base of the neck connects to the back. Measure to the point of the breast bone in the center of the dog̵7;s chest at the base of the neck with the dog looking straight ahead. Some harness makers use a measurement of one side of the neck while others measure all the way around back to the withers. Take both measurements to be sure you have the right numbers to determine the size of the necessary harness.

    • 2

      Measure the length of the dog. Measure from the point of the breast bone at the center of the chest, between the dogs legs, to an inch behind the point of the back legs.

    • 3

      Measure the chest of the dog. Start at the point of the withers and measure down one side of the ribcage to the belly of the dog and back up the other side to the starting point. This should measure the chest at its largest point.

    • 4

      Weigh the dog. Many harness makers require the weight of the dog as part of the order process. Don't estimate the weight of the animal.