How to Measure a Chihuahua

You might need to measure a chihuahua for several reasons, such as the purchase of special dog clothing or equipment (such as leashes) or to project full-growth measurements if the chihuahua has not fully matured. Like most dogs, chihuahuas are usually measured in terms of their body length, chest, neck and waist.

Things You'll Need

  • Leash
  • Soft tape measure
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Instructions

    • 1

      Secure your chihuahua to a steady object, such as a fence post or gate, using the leash, so you can use both hands to hold your chihuahua in place and take the necessary measurements.

    • 2

      Measure your chihuahua's body length by placing one end of the soft tape measure between the dog's shoulder blades and stretching the tape measure until you reach the base of its tail.

    • 3

      Measure your chihuahua's chest size by placing one end of the soft tape measure between the dog's shoulder blades and gently wrapping the tape measure around the dog's underside, just behind the front legs, until you reach the shoulder blades again.

    • 4

      Measure your chihuahua's neck size by placing one end of the soft tape measure at the widest point on the back of your dog's neck and very gently wrapping the tape measure around the front of the dog's neck until you reach the beginning point of the tape measure again.

    • 5

      Measure your chihuahua's waist size by placing one end of the soft tape measure at the base of the dog's tail and wrapping it around the dog in front of its hind legs until you reach the base of the tail again.