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How to measure your dog for a Mutts & Hounds harness

How to measure your dog for a Mutts & Hounds harness

Now that the weather is getting warmer and drier, we’re all getting out and about more with our four-legged friends. Ensuring your dog is comfortable on their walk is important and for many dogs, a simple collar and lead will suffice however some breeds are better suited to a harness.

For example, a harness may be suitable for dogs that need extra support on the back such as Dachshunds or short-nosed dogs like Pugs and French Bulldogs. What’s more, harnesses offer more control over lively dogs or puppies and can be gentler, instead of pulling on the neck area.
 
However, in order for your dog’s harness to fit correctly, you need to measure correctly to get the size just right.

It’s important to measure both your dog’s chest and neck (in order of importance). If you don't have a flexible tape measure, you can use a piece of string and measure this against a ruler. 

Start by wrapping the tape measure directly behind your dog’s front legs, comfortably connecting the tape together at the back. Once you’ve made a note of the measurement for their chest, you should do the same for their neck. Simply wrap the measuring tape where the base of their neck and chest meet and record this measurement.

Now use these measurements to work out the correct size in our size chart below:

SIZE CHART

Size Length Neck Chest
8" (XXS) 8" 10"-12" 12"-14"
10" (XS) 10" 12"-14" 15"-17"
12" (S) 12" 14"-16" 17"-22"
15" (M) 15" 16"-20" 21"-25"
18" (L) 18" 20"-24" 25"-29"

We do offer the below breed guidelines, but remember this can vary from dog to dog so it's always important to measure. 

BREED GUIDELINES

Size
Breed Guide
8" (XXS) Chihuahua, Puppy, Miniature, Toy, Tea Cup
10" (XS) Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Puppy
12" (S) Miniature Schnauzer, Pug, Shih Tzu, Jack Russell
15" (M) Westie, Pekingese, Schnauzer
18" (L) Poodle, Shar Pei, Bull Terrier

Our harnesses have an adjustable velcro fastening around the neck and chest, making them much easier to put on your dog than other harnesses, but just as secure. 

To ensure your dog's harness isn't too tight, use two fingers to test that there is enough space between your dog and their harness. Place two fingers into each section around the harness and if they fit comfortably, the sizing should be suitable and unlikely to cause any discomfort to your dog.

Why not browse our range of stylish harnesses and find one to suit your dog? We also offer personalisation on selected fabrics, providing the perfect gift for your pampered pooch!