How to Measure Your Dog for a Harness (Complete Size Guide)

Buying the right harness is important.

But buying the right size is even more important.

Even the best harness won't work if it's too tight, too loose, or rubbing against your dog's skin. A wrong fit can cause:

• Discomfort - Your dog won't enjoy walks
• Skin irritation - Rubbing and chafing
• Difficulty breathing - Too tight can restrict movement
• Or worse — your dog slipping out - Safety risk

The good news? Measuring your dog is very simple. You don't need anything fancy.

Let's do it step by step.

What You'll Need

You only need:

• A soft measuring tape (like the one used for tailoring)
• Some treats (to keep your dog calm)
• 2–3 minutes

If you don't have a measuring tape, you can use a string and then measure it against a ruler.

Step 1: Measure the Chest (Most Important)

The chest measurement is the most important one when buying a harness.

Here's how to do it:

1. Make your dog stand naturally.2. Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs.3. Make sure the tape is snug — not tight.4. Note the number in centimeters.

That's your main reference measurement.

Most harnesses are sized primarily based on chest girth.

You can explore available harness options here:👉 Browse All Dog Harnesses

Step 2: Measure the Neck

Now measure around the lower part of the neck — not where a collar sits, but slightly lower where the harness strap will go.

Again:

• Keep it snug
• Don't pull too tight
• Let your dog stand normally

This helps ensure the harness won't choke or rub.

Step 3: Leave the Two-Finger Rule

After putting the harness on, you should be able to slide two fingers comfortably between the harness and your dog's body.

• If you can't fit two fingers → It's too tight.
• If it moves around too much → It's too loose.

The harness should feel secure but comfortable.

What If Your Dog Is Between Two Sizes?

This is very common.

If your dog's measurement falls between two sizes:

• Choose the larger size if your dog is still growing
• Choose the size that matches chest measurement first
• Make sure the harness has adjustable straps

Adjustability makes a big difference.

Common Mistakes Dog Owners Make

Let's avoid these:

❌ Guessing Based on Weight

Two dogs of the same weight can have completely different chest sizes.

Always measure.

❌ Measuring While Dog Is Sitting

Dogs should be standing normally while measuring.

❌ Buying Tight for "Control"

Some people think tighter means more control.

It doesn't.

A tight harness can cause discomfort and make your dog more reactive.

Different Harness Types Fit Slightly Differently

If you're confused about which type to choose, here's a quick reference:

Tactical Harness

👉 Tactical Army Dog Harness with MOLLE System

Best for strong breeds. More structured. Needs accurate chest measurement.

No Pull Harness

👉 No-Pull Reflective Dog Harness with Front Clip

Lightweight and adjustable. Great for training.

Adjustable Padded Harness

👉 Adjustable Padded Dog Belt Harness

Simple and comfortable for everyday walks.

Signs Your Harness Does NOT Fit Properly

Watch out for:

• Red marks after removing
• Hair loss in one spot
• Your dog trying to scratch it off
• Excessive shifting side to side
• Escaping easily

If you notice any of these, recheck the size.

How Often Should You Recheck Size?

If you have:

• A puppy → Check every 2–3 months
• A growing adolescent dog → Every few months
• An adult dog → Once a year or after weight change

Dogs gain and lose weight just like humans.

Quick Size Checklist Before Buying

Before you click "Buy":

✔ Chest measured✔ Neck measured✔ Checked size chart✔ Confirmed adjustability✔ Followed two-finger rule

That's it.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right harness size isn't complicated.

It just requires two minutes of attention.

A properly fitted harness:

• Keeps your dog comfortable
• Makes walks safer
• Prevents escapes
• Improves control

Take a few minutes to measure correctly. Your dog will thank you for it.

Browse all harness options here

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I measure over fur?

Yes. Measure normally over fur. Don't press too tightly.

Can puppies use the same harness as they grow?

Usually no. Puppies grow fast. Re-measure every few months.

Is chest measurement more important than neck?

Yes. Chest girth is the primary measurement for most harnesses.

Can a slightly loose harness be adjusted?

If it has adjustable straps, yes. But avoid overly loose fit.

Related Guides

Want to learn more about dog harnesses? Check out our other helpful guides:

👉 Best Dog Harness for Strong Breeds in India - Complete buying guide for strong dog breeds

👉 No Pull vs Tactical Harness – Which Is Better? - Detailed comparison to help you choose