How to measure a dog for a coat or jacket

Dog coats and raincoats aren’t just about looks; they serve an important purpose. Whether you’re keeping your dog warm on chilly evenings or dry during wet weather, the right fit makes all the difference to your dog’s comfort. Especially in short-haired breeds, which are more at risk in cold, wet conditions.

Just like us, your furry friend can get uncomfortable in clothes that don't fit properly. A winter jacket or raincoat that’s too tight can restrict movement and breathing, while one that’s too loose may shift around or fail to provide proper protection from the elements.

That’s why getting your dog’s measurements right before you buy is essential.

Key Takeaway

To measure for a dog coat, you need your dog's length, girth, and neck size. When measuring for a raincoat, you may also include additional measurements like belly coverage.

Breatheshield™ Dog Raincoat Green Brown Tan

What Measurements Do You Need for a Dog Coat?

Here are the key measurements you’ll need to take (if you can get them to stand still long enough!).

Length 

The length of your dog is measured from your dog's neck, beginning just behind the collar (above their shoulder blades), down the middle of its back and to the base of its tail.

Take this measurement when your dog is standing upright, not sitting with a haunches-up posture or lying in an awkward or twisted position.

This will help you get the accurate dimensions while leaving enough room for your dog to potty safely.

Girth 

For an ideal fit that’s just the right size to maintain body heat, the girth is the most important measurement.

Girth is measured by placing the tape around your dog’s chest and behind the front legs.

Don't measure around his abdomen, as this measurement will change with his eating and breathing, resulting in a dog coat that doesn't fit right.

Instead, measure his circumference at the widest part of his chest.

Neck Size

The neck circumference measurement is taken around the base of your dog’s neck - where their collar sits. This measurement is important to ensure the jacket will fit over their head, especially if you intend to buy a garment with a hood attached, as most raincoats do.

Some dogs have excess skin around their necks or thick coats. Take this into consideration when taking your dog's measurements.

Use the Right Tools

Use a soft measuring tape that conforms to your dog's body for the most accurate measurements. 

Any tape measure will do, as long as it's marked in the same measuring unit (imperial vs. metric) as the jacket or coat size guide you intend to purchase.

Once you have the measurements jotted down, consider the size guide of the retailer you're interested in purchasing from.

Do You Measure a Dog Differently for a Raincoat?

No, the way you measure a dog for a raincoat is exactly the same as for a coat or jacket. You’ll still need your dog’s back length, chest girth, and neck size to find the right fit.

However, while the measurements don’t change, how you choose a size based on those measurements does.

Raincoats are designed for wet weather, so when selecting a size, you should:

• Account for layering, such as a harness or light clothing underneath

• Consider your dog’s body shape, especially if they have a broad chest or thick coat

• Avoid sizing too tightly, as materials may sit closer to the body when wet

• Use adjustable features (like straps or drawstrings) to refine the fit after sizing

In short, the measuring process stays the same, but when choosing a raincoat, it’s often best to prioritize flexibility and adjustability.

Breatheshield™ Dog Raincoat - Purple

How Should a Raincoat or Jacket Fit?

Dogs are naturally active; they run, jump, and explore, so any coat or raincoat needs to support full, unrestricted movement.

A well-sized dog raincoat or jacket should fit snugly on your dog's body without being restrictive, allowing them to move comfortably while staying protected from the elements.

A good fit should:

• Cover from the base of the neck to the base of the tail to keep your dog dry

• Sit close to the body without gaps, especially around the chest and belly

• Stay in place during movement, without twisting or shifting

• Allow a full range of motion in the legs and shoulders

If your dog is between sizes, it’s usually best to size up slightly, especially around the chest, to avoid restriction.

As a general rule, you should be able to fit two fingers between the coat and your dog’s body, ensuring comfort while maintaining a secure fit.

Epic Raincoats and Jackets That Will Turn Heads

There are a few different cut styles you should consider when dressing your best friend. 

Breatheshield Raincoat

Breatheshield™ Dog Raincoat Purple

The Breatheshield raincoat is both breathable and waterproof. Made with advanced materials, it allows airflow while remaining waterproof, keeping your dog comfortable and dry.

Unlike rubber raincoats, the Breatheshield allows heat and moisture to escape, helping prevent overheating in active dogs who love to run in the rain.

These raincoats come with adjustable neck wraps to keep your dog’s head and neck dry without reducing their visibility. They also come with a hole for attaching a leash and added protection so water can’t get inside.

The mesh inner lining provides non-slip comfort, and the adjustable straps at the back allow easy potty breaks without the risk of riding up and letting rain and mud inside.

Breatheshield raincoats also feature high-vis strips on the sides for an added layer of safety on gloomy, misty days. They also come in a variety of fun colors to suit every taste.

Jacket Style Coat

WarmShield Water-Resistant Jacket Olive

This coat is a perfect fit for active canines that regularly join their owners on out-and-about adventures like hiking or camping.

Made from materials such as cotton or polyester, these jackets often come in two styles: with or without sleeves.

While dog jackets with sleeves offer more insulation for their front legs, keeping your pup nice and toasty in frost conditions, sleeveless coats are probably the better choice for larger dogs.

That’s because breeds with long legs tend to run more and have a more awkward shape than shorter dogs.

Another reason to opt for a jacket-style coat is that they’re often made from weather-resistant or waterproof materials. Perfect for hiking and camping.

The best dog coats to consider for active dogs aren’t only comfortable and water-resistant but reflective, keeping your dog safe in low-light conditions.

So if you plan on taking your dog along on outdoor activities, consider getting them a snug jacket or coat.

Sherpa Coat

Teddy Sherpa Fleece Dog Jacket Brown

A Sherpa Coat is a form-fitting coat that fits similarly to the jacket style coat by wrapping snuggly around your dog’s body while leaving their arms and legs free..

The main difference between this style coat and a jacket is that while it is less waterproof than a jacket or raincoat, the fleece adds an extra layer of warmth and comfort. The soft polar fleece interior is also easily washable compared to other options.

These Sherpa coats are perfect for dogs that like it indoors and enjoy a cuddle on the couch. They’re also a good, comfortable, everyday fit for short haired breeds that are prone to getting cold.

While the sherpa coat is less waterproof than the other options, its double layer of buttons and jacket-like fit allows it to be worn both outside and inside without falling off or inhibiting movement.

Final Thoughts

Breatheshield™ Dog Raincoat Mustard Yellow

The fit of a dog jacket is just as important as finding the right dog jacket. This means measuring the coat correctly, choosing the right fit for your breed, and selecting a style that suits your lifestyle. 

Focus on key measurements like length, chest girth, and neck size, as these tend to be standard for most brands. This way, you can ensure a comfortable, secure fit that won’t restrict movement or leave gaps. Check the size chart when purchasing to see if you need any additional measurements.

You will also have to assess your dog’s needs to choose the right jacket that keeps them as warm and dry as possible. This could be a dry and comfortable raincoat, a toasty dog jacket that allows for lots of movement, or a blanket coat for a more relaxed option. 

Ultimately, the best choice is one that keeps your dog dry, comfortable, stylish, and ready for whatever the day brings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do You Measure a Dog Differently for a Raincoat?

Yes, there are some differences. While you will still use the standard measurements for your dog’s length, girth, and neck, the goal should be to cover as much as possible. You will also want to check for belly coverage and adjustability.

Do You Size Up for Dog Raincoats?

Yes, typically you would want to upsize on a raincoat or any other dog apparel. This is especially important if your dog is fluffy, falls between two sizes, or has a stocky build. While a raincoat should be form-fitting, you don’t want to trap too much heat.

How Do I Know If My Dog's Coat Fits Properly?

The Two-Finger test. After you have made sure that your coat covers everything it's supposed to - without causing any chafing or making it difficult to go potty - you can try the Two-Finger test by seeing if you can comfortably slide two fingers between your dog and their coat. If you can, then the size should be correct.

Can I Use My Dog’s Breed or Weight to Choose a Coat Size?

No, while your dog’s breed and weight are good starting points in your search (especially for very large or very small dogs), you will still need to get their length, girth, and neck measurements to make sure you are getting a good fit for your dog.

What Should I Do If My Dog is Between Two Coat Sizes?

If your dog is between sizes, then it's best to go for the larger size. It’s easier to adjust a larger size down than it is to squeeze a dog into a coat that’s too small. A larger coat also leaves room for any additional growth or weight gain.