If you want to keep your dog warm, dry and cosy, a winter coat or waterproof coat is ideal. Shorter-haired dogs will feel the most benefit from a dog coat, and older dogs will also welcome the extra layer.
When picking out the perfect coat for your dog, you need to consider the size and fit. If it’s too big, it could be difficult to get it to stay on, and if it’s too small, it could be tight and uncomfortable. We all know what it is like when clothes don’t fit us, and it’s the exact same for dogs. We highly recommend measuring your dog before shopping to find the best coat for them. If you’re not sure how, we can help!
Measuring Your Dog
You can get your dog measured for a coat, but you can also do it yourself using a soft tape measure and maybe have a dog treat handy to keep them on their best behaviour whilst you take their measurements.
In order to get accurate measurements, you should:
- Measure the distance from the nape of their neck to the base of the tail.
- Measure the width of their chest, just behind their front legs.
- Measure around their neck where their collar normally sits.
To do this, we recommend your dog stand up. If they are sat down, their weight will shift downwards and can result in accurate measurements. Make a note of their measurements in both cms and inches, as coats can be sold in either.
How Your Dog’s Coat Should Fit
Generally, your dog’s coat should cover their entire body from the neck at the base of the collar, to the base of their tail. Don’t worry too much if the coat is slightly too short or long.
The fit will be different depending on the type of coat you have chosen for your dog. For example, a jacket-style coat should cover your dog’s chest, shoulders, stomach, and thighs. Whereas, a blanket-style coat shouldn’t cover your dog’s stomach, instead it will sit on the top of their back and come down either side around their shoulders.
What Size Coat Should I Get My Dog?
The back length of your dog will be the biggest deciding factor when trying to find a coat that will fit. Once you know your dog’s back measurement, you will be able to correspond this with the chest size.
A well-fitted coat should not restrict any freedom of movement or cause any discomfort. You should be able to run your hand flat along your dog within each coat opening.
Top Tips for Measuring Your Dog for a Coat
- Try taking your dog’s measurements after exercise when they are most likely to be calm.
- Keep a note of your dog’s measurement in both cms and inches as clothing can be labelled in either format.
- If your dog is in between sizes, we recommend sizing up, as you would rather the coat be slightly looser than too tight.
Contact A&T Trained Dogs
If you need any assistance with measuring your dog, or any pup-related questions, please get in touch with our team and we would be happy to help.
