Choosing the Right Size

How to choose the right size in pet clothing for your dog.  Sounds difficult, especially since you can't try it on your dog ahead of time.  Really, it isn't as hard as it sounds.  Below I will list a few tips on how to choose the right size for your pet. 

The most important thing to do when purchasing dog apparel online is to look for measurements.  Sellers list sizes such as XS, SM etc.  They should also list measurements.   Three key measurements that should be listed are; Chest/Girth, Neck and Length.  Every dog is built differently (even within the same breed) and it isn't enough to have just the size listed and/or the breed it should fit.  Every company/brand has slightly different measurements for their products.  A small from one company/brand may actually be bigger (or smaller) than the small from another company/brand.  So What does all this mean?  If you don't see measurements listed, ask the seller for them. 

The next thing you are probably wondering is what do these measurements mean, how do I measure my dog and do I really need to go to all this trouble?  Neck size tells how big the neck opening is.  Length is the measurement from the back of neck to the base of tail.  This will tell you how long the item is.  Chest/Girth (sometimes listed as Breast) is the measurement taken near the dogs front shoulders and measuring around the chest.  This should tell you how roomy it will be on the dog.  I have added a picture below that my daughter made and one from our vendor to help you better understand the measurement process. 

                   

 

To measure your dog as shown in the picture, you will need a tape measure.  The soft measuring tape used in sewing is best but in a pinch the tape measure found in most hardware stores will work.