To find the right dog coat size you need two measurements: the back length from the base of the neck to the base of the tail, and the chest girth at the widest point just behind the front legs. Compare these values with the size chart on the product page, because every brand cuts differently. If your dog falls between two sizes, the chest girth decides.
It sounds simple, and yet every winter plenty of coats in the wrong size end up at the back of the cupboard. Here you will learn step by step how to measure properly, how to recognise a good fit and which mistakes to avoid.
Why does fit matter more than the size on the label?
A label like size M means something different with every brand. What counts is how the coat sits on your dog: a coat that is too big slips around, flaps in the wind and lets the cold reach the chest and belly. A coat that is too small chafes under the armpits, presses on the neck and restricts the shoulders. Either way your dog will dislike wearing it, and the coat stays in the cupboard. A well-fitting coat sits quietly, keeps your dog warm and is simply forgotten after a few walks.
How do you measure your dog properly?
Have your dog stand straight and relaxed, ideally on level ground. A soft tailor's measuring tape is ideal; a piece of string measured against a ruler works too. The tape should rest on the body without being pulled tight. You need these three measurements:
- Back length: from the base of the neck (where the collar sits) along the back to the base of the tail. This is the measurement most size charts list first.
- Chest girth: once around the ribcage, directly behind the front legs at the widest point. This measurement decides whether the coat closes at all.
- Neck girth: measure where the collar normally sits. Important for coats with a high collar.
If your dog fidgets while you measure, a second person keeping him busy with a few treats at the front helps. Measure twice rather than once: two minutes of effort can save you a return.
How can you tell that the coat fits properly?
- Two-finger rule: two flat fingers fit between coat and body at the chest and collar. More room means slipping, less means chafing.
- Back length is right: the coat covers the back to the base of the tail without bunching up when your dog sits or sticking out over the tail.
- Full freedom of movement: shoulders and front legs can stride out freely, even at a trot. Watch your dog take a few steps.
- Belly stays free enough: male dogs in particular need enough clearance at the back so nothing gets wet during toilet stops.
- Nothing presses: fastenings lie flat and do not pinch any fur.
Which mistakes should you avoid when buying a coat?
- Buying by weight: two dogs weighing five kilos can be built completely differently. Measurements beat kilos.
- Ordering room to grow: a coat that is too big does not keep your dog warm and puts him off wearing it. Buy the size that fits now.
- Measuring too tight: if you pull the tape tight, you will order too small. Let the tape rest on the body.
- Forgetting the winter coat: measure your dog as he is now, in winter over his winter fur.
- Ignoring the size chart: always compare your measurements with the chart of the specific product, not with the size of the last coat.
What about dachshunds and other short-legged dogs?
Long dogs with short legs are the hardest case when buying a coat: if the chest girth fits, a standard coat is often too short along the back, and anything long enough hangs loose at the legs. Our Vico knows the problem from experience. For builds like this, a specially cut coat such as the CozyDachs winter coat is worth it: long along the back, short at the legs, with a water-repellent quilted shell, fleece lining, a high collar and a leash opening on the back. If you prefer something lighter or have a very active dog, a fleece vest like the Pup-Peroni Parka is a good choice: the vest is cut for short-legged and small dogs, goes on in seconds and has a D-ring for the leash. To be honest, a vest is less warm than a lined coat, but it restricts nothing at all. For dry, moderately cold days it is plenty for many dogs.
Does last year's coat still fit?
Check now in November, before the first frost arrives. Young dogs grow, older dogs gain or lose weight, and even a velcro fastening wears out over time. Put the coat on, do the two-finger check at chest and collar and watch a few steps. If it no longer sits well, measure again instead of muddling through. You will find a complete checklist for the first cold snap in our guide getting your dog ready for winter, and more coats, jumpers and vests in our dog apparel collection.
Frequently asked questions
What do I do if my dog falls between two sizes?
The chest girth decides, because it determines whether the coat closes without pressing. For long dogs it is also worth checking the back length of the next size up. If you are unsure, our customer service is happy to help you choose.
Do I have to measure over the winter fur?
Yes. Measure your dog in the state in which he will wear the coat, with the fur he has now. Let the tape rest on the body without pressing it into the fur.
How much room does my dog need under the coat?
Two flat fingers between coat and body, measured at the chest and collar, are a good rule of thumb. That way the coat sits close without chafing and your dog can move freely.
