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

Getting the right fit for your dog’s apparel and accessories isn’t just about looking good—it’s about comfort, function, and freedom of movement. With just a few simple tools and a few minutes, you can ensure that your pup stays comfy and stylish in every season. In this complete guide, we’ll walk you through the process of measuring your dog properly, address common sizing concerns, and provide insider tips for hard-to-fit pups.

The 4 Essentials You’ll Need

Measuring your dog takes under five minutes when you’re prepared. You’ll need just four things:

Remember: every brand’s size chart is different. That’s why these three key measurements are essential whenever you shop. Our orthopedic beds also use these same measurements to provide optimal comfort for sleeping.

The 3 Most Important Dog Measurements

1. Girth / Chest Circumference: This is the most important measurement for proper fit. Wrap the tape vertically around the deepest part of your dog’s chest—just behind the front legs. Not the belly or midsection.

2. Neck Circumference: Measure where your dog’s collar naturally sits, at the base of the neck, below the chin and above the shoulders. Not too far forward on the throat, not too far back.

3. Body Length: Measure along the dog’s back from the base of the neck (where the collar rests) to the base of the tail. Do not include the tail itself.

🔎 Bonus #4: Let Our Sizing Experts Help

At Go Doggie Style, we don’t just sell dog clothes—we help you get the right fit every time. If you’re unsure about sizing or stuck between sizes, our live chat team is here to assist.

Just send us your dog’s measurements, and our Sizing Experts will tell you exactly what size to order for any product on our site.

Contact us via our live chat in the bottom right corner or Email us anytime.

"I had no idea what size to order, but the Go Doggie Style team walked me through it. The harness fits like it was made for my dog—no more guessing!" — Rachel T., verified customer

We guarantee our sizing advice—even for custom items—and will replace the item at no cost if we get it wrong. That’s our Go Doggie Style promise to every pet parent.

"My Frenchie always had trouble fitting harnesses and would always slip out through the gap area in front of the chest until I learned how to measure her chest correctly. Now everything fits like a glove—thank you Go Doggie Style!" — Lauren G., verified customer

Extra Tip: Leg Length & Specialty Fits

While not always required, leg length can help determine the fit of jumpsuits, full-body raincoats, or even pajama-style clothes. Measure from the top of the front leg (where it joins the chest) to the paw.

"My Dachshund has a long body but short chest—Go Doggie Style helped me find the perfect Alpine coat that actually fits!" — Marco S., verified customer

Tips for Measuring Your Dog Successfully

Hard-to-Fit Dogs? We’ve Got You Covered.

Some dogs have broad chests, deep bodies, short backs, or in-between sizes—and we’ve helped them all. If your harness gaps in the chest or a coat is too short despite the right girth, Go Doggie Style has solutions designed just for you:

We’re so confident in our team’s recommendations that if we guide you on sizing and it doesn’t fit—even for custom items—we’ll replace it at no charge. Guaranteed.

How Often Should You Recheck Measurements?

Dogs grow fast, especially in the first year. Recheck measurements:

Get a Perfect Fit for Dog Beds Too!

Our orthopedic Oslo dog beds include dimensions so you can choose the right size based on your dog’s body length and sleeping style. Whether they sprawl or curl, we’ve got the perfect fit for deep, restful comfort.

About the Author
Go Doggie Style is more than just a dog boutique — it’s a passion project by Dr. Patria Smith, a Doctor of Pharmacy, Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist, Entrepreneur, wife, mother of 4 beautiful children and a proud dog mom. Founded in 2019, our blog blends professional insight, scientific accuracy, and a deep love for dogs to help pet parents give their pups the healthiest, happiest life possible.