How to Choose the Right Coat Size for Your Dog

As the weather changes, keeping your furry friend comfortable and stylish becomes a priority. Just like humans, dogs benefit from an extra layer of warmth during the colder months. But finding the perfect coat size for your dog can be a challenge. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you choose the right coat size for your dog.

Why Your Dog Needs a Coat

1. Protection from the Elements: Dogs with thin coats, senior dogs, or those with health conditions may need extra protection against cold, rain, and wind.

2. Comfort and Warmth: Just like us, dogs can get cold. A well-fitted coat can help maintain their body temperature.

3. Style and Visibility: Coats can add a fashionable flair to your dog’s look while also making them more visible during walks.

Steps to Measure Your Dog

Accurate measurements are key to finding the perfect coat size. Follow these easy steps:

1. Length: Measure from the base of your dog’s neck to the base of their tail. This is the primary measurement for coat length.

Use a soft measuring tape and ensure your dog is standing up straight for the most accurate measurements.

2. Check their current weight as this will also help determine of the measurements from neck to base of tail are going to be accurate.

If in any doubt, always go up a size – never down, as a smaller fitting coat can cause lots of discomfort for your pooch and even cause some designs to stretch and break. e.g. designs with velcro straps.  

We want to ensure your dog is as comfortable as possible with absolutely no restrictions to their movement or toileting.

Understanding Coat Sizes 

Dog coats come in various sizes, typically ranging from extra small (XS) to extra large (XL). Each brand may have slight variations in their sizing charts, so always refer to the specific brand’s guide. Here’s a general idea of what the sizes might look like:

Extra Small (XS): Fits dogs with a back length of 20cm or 8 inches and a weight of approximately 3kgs or 6 pounds.

Small (S): Fits dogs with a back length of 30cm or 12 inches and a weight of 4-7kgs or 7-14 pounds.

Medium (M): Fits dogs with a back length of 37cm or 15 inches and a weight of 8-12 kilos or 16-25 pounds

Large (L): Fits dogs with a back length of 47cm or 19 inches and a weight of 13-20 kilos or 25-45 pounds

Extra Large (XL): Fits dogs with a back length of 55cm or 22 inches and a weight of 21-29 kilos or 46-64 pounds

Always refer to the brand’s sizing chart as these can vary and remember every pooch is unique and each guide is should be used as an estimate only.

Tips for a Perfect Fit

1. Allow for Movement: Ensure the coat isn’t too tight. Your dog should be able to move comfortably, including sitting, lying down, and running.

2. Check for Coverage: The coat should cover your dog’s back from the neck to the base of the tail but shouldn’t extend beyond that.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring the Brand’s Sizing Chart: Always check the specific brand’s measurements.

Buying Without Measuring: Guessing your dog’s size can lead to an ill-fitting coat. Always measure your dog accurately.

Conclusion

Choosing the right coat size for your dog ensures they stay warm, comfortable, and stylish during colder months. By following these steps and tips, you’ll find the perfect fit for your furry friend. Remember, a well-fitted coat not only provides warmth but also makes your dog feel secure and loved!