Trying to figure out what size harness is right for your dog? Check out our blog post for all the information you need to make the best decision for your furry friend!
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Measuring Your Dog
The most important factor in choosing a harness for your dog is getting the right size. If the harness is too big, your dog may be able to wiggle out of it. If the harness is too small, it will be uncomfortable for your dog to wear. The best way to determine what size harness you need is to measure your dog.
Measuring the girth
The girth is the measurement around your dog’s body at the widest part, usually right behind the front legs. To measure, use a flexible tape measure and wrap it around your dog at that point. This is the most important number when purchasing a harness, as it dictates which size you will need.
Measuring the length
The first thing you’ll need to do is measure your dog. To do this, you’ll need a flexible measuring tape. Measure from the point of the shoulder to 4 inches below the belly (on females) or 6 inches below the belly (on males). This is your dog’s length.
Types of Harnesses
There are many types of harnesses on the market, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for your dog. The most important thing to consider is the size of your dog. You don’t want to get a harness that is too big or too small. Other factors to consider include the type of activities you will be doing with your dog and your dog’s coat.
Standard harness
This type of harness is similar to the flat collar in that it wraps around the dog’s neck and clips in the back. The difference is that a standard harness will have a ring situated on the dog’s chest, as well as one on their back. This type of harness is good for walks, as it takes pressure off of the neck and evenly distributes it across the chest. It also offers more control than a flat collar, as you can clip a leash to both the front and back rings. Standard harnesses are good for all dogs, regardless of size or breed.
Step-in harness
The step-in harness is the simplest type of dog harness to put on your pet. All you have to do is step over your dog’s back and pull the two ends of the harness up and around his torso. Then buckle the harness closed. This type of harness works well for small to medium-sized dogs who are not too excitable.
No-pull harness
A no-pull harness is a specialized type of canine harness that is designed to stop dogs from pulling on the leash. No-pull harnesses have a ring on the chest strap that attaches to the leash, and a second ring on the back of the harness. When the dog pulls on the leash, the chest strap tightens, inhibiting his ability to pull. No-pull harnesses are an excellent tool for training dogs not to pull on the leash, and are often used by dog owners who have large or strong dogs.
Choosing the Right Size
The most important factor in choosing a harness for your dog is picking the right size. If the harness is too big, your dog may be able to wiggle out of it. If the harness is too small, it will be uncomfortable for your dog and may restrict their movement. To get the right size, you will need to take some measurements.
Small dogs
For very small dogs, teacup harnesses are available. These harnesses have a chest girth of less than 10 inches and a neck size of less than 8 inches. If you have a small dog, be sure to try the harness on before you buy it to ensure that it fits well and is comfortable for your dog to wear.
Medium-sized dogs
For medium-sized dogs, there are a variety of harnesses to choose from. The most important thing is to find one that fits your dog well and is comfortable for him or her to wear. A good rule of thumb is to select a harness that has a chest girth of 18-22 inches and a neck size of 16-20 inches.
Large dogs
For large dogs, there are several brands that make durable, heavy-duty harnesses. The most important thing is to find one that fits your dog well and is comfortable for him or her to wear. A good rule of thumb is to select a harness that has a chest girth of 24-28 inches and a neck size of 20-24 inches.
Medium dogs
The most common size grouping for dog harnesses is by weight, with sizes running from extra-small to extra-large. In general, you can use the following chart as a guide, but it’s always best to take precise measurements of your dog before purchasing any type of pet apparel.
Size Chart
-Extra Small: Weighs up to 10 lbs. (4.5 kg)
-Small: Weighs 11-25 lbs. (5-11 kg)
-Medium: Weighs 26-50 lbs. (12-23 kg)
-Large: Weighs 51-100 lbs. (24-45 kg)
Extra Large: Weighs over 100 lbs. (45+ kg)
Large dogs
For large dogs, you will want to look for a harness that is comfortable and provides good coverage. A harness that is too small will be uncomfortable for your dog and may not provide enough coverage. A harness that is too large may be bulky and difficult to put on.
The best way to find the right size harness for your dog is to measure them. You will want to measure around the chest, just behind the front legs. Make sure the tape measure is snug but not tight, and take note of the measurement. You can then compare this measurement to the size chart for the harness you are considering to find the best fit.
Remember, you can always adjust the straps on most harnesses to get a custom fit for your dog. If you are unsure about what size to choose, or have any other questions, please feel free to contact us and we would be happy to help you select the perfect harness for your furry friend!
