How to Measure Dogs for Clothing

If you're planning to get your favorite pooch a lovely sweater but don't live close to a pet specialty store, you'll have to purchase the present from an online vendor. If you don't want him ripping open an ill-sized present, be sure to properly measure your dog before deciding which size to order. Measuring a dog for clothing consists of three basic elements: the neck, the girth and the length of the body.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the circumference of the dog's neck with your measuring tape. Leave enough space so the clothes will be loose enough not to cause your dog discomfort; measure the neck for clothing as you would for a collar.

    • 2

      Measure the chest at its widest point. Begin on the dog's backbone and measure down to the dog's belly and back up the other side. The widest point is usually directly behind the front legs.

    • 3

      Measure the length of the dog's body at the backbone. Begin at the base of the neck and end at the base of the tail.