dog being measured

How to Measure Your Dog for Collars and Clothes:
A Step-by-Step Guide

When finding the perfect clothes or accessories for your pup, fit is everything. A chic outfit or beautifully crafted collar should not only look great—it should also feel great on your dog. At GlamourDog, we believe fashion and function go paw in paw. That’s why we created this step-by-step guide to help you measure your dog correctly and confidently, so every piece you choose fits like it was made just for them.

In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn exactly how to measure your dog for clothes, collars, and harnesses, plus some tips to avoid common sizing mistakes. We’ll also show you how to use our custom GlamourDog Fit Guide Tool to make sizing easier than ever.

Ready to get the paw-fect fit? Let’s measure!

Why Measuring Matters

You wouldn’t wear shoes two sizes too small—or a jacket that slips right off your shoulders. The same goes for your dog. Getting the right measurements isn’t just about appearances—it’s about ensuring your dog is comfortable, safe, and confident in everything they wear.

Comfort Comes First: A too-tight collar or a restrictive outfit can cause irritation and limit movement. Proper fit ensures your dog moves freely and comfortably.

A Better Fit Means Better Style: Clothing that fits properly enhances your dog’s unique shape and makes every photo more polished.

Safety Depends on Fit: A secure collar or harness is essential for safe walks and outings.

Avoid Returns: Knowing your dog’s measurements saves time and reduces the guesswork when shopping.

What You’ll Need

To start measuring, gather a few essentials:

  • Soft Measuring Tape (or string + ruler)
  • Calm, Comfortable Space
  • Treats for Positive Reinforcement
  • Notepad or Phone for Notes
  • Helper (Optional)
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How to Measure Your Dog for Clothes

These three key measurements will help ensure a stylish and secure fit:

Neck Circumference: Wrap tape around the base of your dog’s neck where a collar would sit. Use the two-finger rule for comfort.

Chest Girth: Measure around the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs.

Back Length: Measure from the base of the neck (shoulders) to the base of the tail.

How to Measure for Collars & Harnesses
For Collars:

For Collars:

  • Measure around the base of the neck.
  • Allow for two fingers between the tape and your dog’s neck.

For Harnesses:

  • Chest Girth: Measure around the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs.
  • Neck Girth: Measure the lower part of the neck, near the shoulders.
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Sizing Tips by Dog Breed or Type

Small Breeds: Look for lightweight, snug clothing.


Medium Breeds: Watch for wide chests and short backs.


Large Breeds: Consider body length and shoulder width.


Long-Backed Breeds: Prioritize back length.

 

Short-Legged Breeds: Watch for wider armholes and less length.

 

A Note on Puppies

If your dog is still growing, consider choosing adjustable items or sizing up slightly with room to grow. Recheck their measurements every few months to keep up with growth spurts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Guessing by weight or breed
  • Measuring while sitting
  • Using stiff tools
  • Forgetting room for comfort
  • Not re-measuring over time
  • Skipping the sizing chart

Using the GlamourDog Fit Guide Tool

Step 1: Enter your dog’s measurements.

Step 2: Get personalized sizing suggestions.

Step 3: Shop confidently.

Step 4: Update as needed as your pup grows or changes.

Pro tip: You can bookmark the GlamourDog Fit Guide Tool or save your dog’s info to make shopping even easier next time.

With the right measurements, the right tools, and the right styles, your dog is ready to take on the world—one fabulous outfit at a time.

 

Download Your Free Printable Cheat Sheet

To make life even easier, we’ve created a free printable GlamourDog Measurement Cheat Sheet you can use every time you shop.

Click to download https://glamourdog.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/GlamourDog_Measurement_CheatSheet_WithLogo.pdf

Dog measuring cheat sheet

Final Tips

  • Always double-check your measurements.
  • Re-measure if your dog is still growing or has gained/lost weight.
  • Keep notes for future orders.

Stylishly Tailored with Love

At GlamourDog, we believe fashion should feel as good as it looks. With this guide, your dog can step out in outfits that are stylish, safe, and supremely comfy.

Stay glam, stay chic — and give your pup the fit they deserve!

💖 With love,

The GlamourDog Team

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Find the Perfect Fit for Your Dog

** Disclaimer**
This Fit Guide is designed to offer general sizing recommendations based on your dog’s measurements and breed. However, sizing can vary between manufacturers and specific products. For the most accurate fit, always refer to the individual product’s size chart listed in the description before making a purchase.