How to Measure Your Dog for the Perfect Fit — A KnittingFur Guide
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Every dog parent has been there — you order something cute online, it arrives, and it either slides right off your pup or squeezes them like a burrito. The secret to getting it right every time? Measuring correctly before you buy.
Why the Right Fit Matters
A harness that's too tight can restrict your dog's movement and cause chafing. A collar that's too loose can slip over their head. Beyond comfort, the right fit is also a safety issue — especially for walks and outdoor adventures. At KnittingFur, every product is designed with your pet's comfort as the first priority, but that only works if the size is right!
What You'll Need
Just a soft measuring tape (the kind used for sewing). No measuring tape? A piece of string + a ruler works perfectly too.
The 3 Key Measurements
1. 🐾 Neck
Measure around the base of your dog's neck — this is where a collar naturally sits. Slide two fingers under the tape to ensure there's enough breathing room. Add 2 cm to whatever number you get for a comfortable fit.
2. 🐾 Chest (Girth)
This is the widest part of the chest, measured just behind the front legs. This measurement is especially important for harnesses and clothing. Keep the tape snug but not tight.
3. 🐾 Back Length
Measure from the base of the neck (where the collar sits) straight down to the base of the tail. This matters most for shirts, bandanas, and coats.
Quick Size Guide
| Size | Neck (cm) | Chest (cm) | Weight (kg) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XXS | 18–20 | 22–26 | 0.5–1 kg |
| XS | 20–23 | 26–30 | 1–2 kg |
| S | 23–26 | 30–36 | 2–4 kg |
| M | 26–30 | 36–42 | 4–7 kg |
| L | 30–34 | 42–48 | 7–10 kg |
| XL | 34–38 | 48–54 | 10–14 kg |
| XXL | 38–44 | 54–62 | 14–20 kg |
| XXXL | 44–50 | 62–70 | 20–28 kg |
Pro Tips from Pet Parents
- 🐶 Always measure, never guess. Even if you've ordered before — dogs change weight!
- 📏 Between two sizes? Go bigger. A slightly larger fit is always more comfortable than a tight one.
- 🧵 Measure twice. Especially if your dog is wriggly — have a treat ready to keep them still!
- ⚖️ Weight is a guide, not a rule. Two dogs of the same weight can have very different body shapes. Always prioritise the neck and chest measurements.
Still Not Sure?
No worries at all! Our team is just a WhatsApp message away. Share your dog's measurements and we'll personally recommend the best size for them. That's the KnittingFur promise — fashionable, sustainable, un-fur-gettable.