How to Measure Your Dog for the Right Harness Size
Finding a comfortable, secure harness for your dog begins with accurate measurements. A well-fitting harness keeps your dog safe while giving you more control on walks. Here’s how to measure your dog correctly to ensure the best fit with a Barkley Dogwear harness.
Why Accurate Harness Sizing Matters
A comfortable harness fit helps prevent chafing, discomfort, and accidental escapes. Unlike collars, harnesses fit around the neck, chest, and sometimes back, so each area needs precise measurement. A well-fitting harness supports safe, enjoyable walks for both you and your dog.
What You’ll Need
To measure your dog for a harness, have the following ready:
- A soft measuring tape (or a piece of string and a ruler).
- Our Barkley Dogwear Harness Size Chart, which can be found on our product pages.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Dog for a Harness
- Measure the Chest Size: Start by measuring the widest part of your dog’s chest, just behind the front legs. This is the primary measurement for harness sizing, as it determines where the harness will sit on your dog’s body.
- Measure the Neck Circumference: Some harnesses require a neck measurement as well. Wrap the measuring tape around the base of your dog’s neck, just above the shoulders.
- Measure the Back Length (if applicable): For harnesses that extend along the back, measure from the base of your dog’s neck to the base of their tail. This is especially important for full-body harnesses.
- Consult the Harness Size Chart: At Barkley Dogwear, our harness size charts will guide you in finding the best fit based on your measurements. You can find these on each of our harness product pages to find the perfect size.
Tips for a Secure, Comfortable Harness Fit
- Adjustability: Choose an adjustable harness to get the most precise fit, especially if your dog is still growing.
- Comfort Check: After putting on the harness, ensure it’s snug but not too tight by sliding two fingers between the harness and your dog’s body.
- Observe Movement: Walk your dog around to ensure the harness doesn’t restrict their movement. A well-fitting harness should stay in place and allow for a full range of motion.
With the right measurements, you can confidently choose the best harness for your dog. Explore our range of dog harnesses at Barkley Dogwear to find a design that’s both comfortable and stylish for your pet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my dog’s harness is too tight or too loose?
A properly fitted harness should allow you to slide two fingers comfortably between the harness and your dog’s body. If it’s too loose, it may slip off, and if it’s too tight, it could restrict movement or cause chafing.
Can I use my dog’s collar size to find the right harness size?
Collar size and harness size are typically different, as harnesses require a chest measurement and sometimes a back length measurement. For the best fit, measure your dog specifically for the harness and consult Barkley Dogwear’s harness size chart.
Should I measure my dog when they’re relaxed or standing up for a harness?
Measure your dog while they’re standing for the most accurate sizing, as this is the position they’ll be in when wearing the harness. Measuring while they’re relaxed or sitting can result in an inaccurate fit.
How often should I check the fit of my dog’s harness?
It’s a good idea to check the harness fit regularly, especially if your dog is young, as they may outgrow their current size. Also, monitor the fit if your dog experiences weight changes or fluctuating coat thickness.
What if my dog is between harness sizes?
If your dog’s measurements fall between two sizes you may need a custom made harness. Barkley Dogwear’s harness size charts can help you find the right fit but if you’re still unsure you can request a made to measure option.