Dog Harness Size Calculator
Find the perfect harness size for your dog based on weight and chest measurements
Measurement Tips
Measure chest girth at the widest part behind the front legs. Use a soft measuring tape and ensure your dog is standing naturally.
Calculate Harness Size
Current weight of your dog
Measure around the widest part of the chest behind front legs
๐ How to Measure Your Dog
Weight:
- 1. Weigh yourself first
- 2. Pick up your dog and weigh together
- 3. Subtract your weight from total
Chest Girth:
- 1. Use a soft measuring tape
- 2. Measure behind front legs
- 3. At the widest part of chest
๐ฏ Perfect Fit Tips
The harness should fit snugly but not too tight
You should be able to fit 2 fingers between the harness and your dog
Check that the harness doesn't chafe under the arms or neck
Ensure the chest piece sits on the breastbone, not the throat
The back piece should sit between the shoulder blades
Monitor growing puppies - they may need size adjustments
Complete Harness Size Chart
Size | Weight Range | Chest Girth | Strap Width |
---|---|---|---|
XX-Small | Up to 5 lbs (2.26 kg) | 8-10" (20.3-25.4 cm) | 5/16" (0.79 cm) |
X-Small | 5-10 lbs (2.26-4.54 kg) | 9-15" (22.86-38.1 cm) | 3/8" (0.95 cm) |
Small | 10-25 lbs (4.54-11.34 kg) | 13-23" (33.02-58.42 cm) | 5/8" (1.59 cm) |
Medium | Up to 55 lbs (25 kg) | 18-29" (45.72-73.66 cm) | 3/4" (1.905 cm) |
Large | Up to 75 lbs (34 kg) | 22-39" (55.88-99 cm) | 1" (2.540 cm) width, two-ply for strong pullers |
X-Large | 75+ lbs (34+ kg) | 28-48" (71-122 cm) | 1.25" (3.175 cm) width, two-ply for strong pullers |
* Highlighted row shows your dog's recommended size
๐ฆฎ Benefits of Harnesses
Prevents neck and spine injury from pulling
More secure - harder for dogs to escape
Better control for leash-reactive dogs
Distributes pressure evenly across the body
Prevents ocular proptosis (eye bulging)
Ideal for dogs with respiratory issues
Harness Types
Step-in Harness
Easy to put on, dog steps into it
Good for calm dogs
Over-the-Head Harness
Goes over head, clips at chest
Secure fit for active dogs
No-Pull Harness
Front-clip discourages pulling
Training tool for leash manners
Safety Notes
Never leave a harness on unsupervised dogs
Check fit regularly, especially for growing puppies
Clean harness regularly to prevent skin irritation
Allow adjustment period for dogs new to harnesses
Ensure ID tags are visible and secure
Understanding Dog Harness Sizing
Why Proper Sizing Matters
A properly fitted harness is crucial for your dog's comfort, safety, and training success. An ill-fitting harness can cause chafing, restrict movement, or allow your dog to escape.
Key Measurements
- โขWeight: Determines the strength and size category needed
- โขChest Girth: Ensures proper circumference fit around the ribcage
- โขNeck Size: Some harnesses require neck measurement too
Sizing Formula
Primary Factor: Weight Category
Secondary Factor: Chest Girth Range
Special Considerations
- Barrel-chested breeds: May need larger sizes despite weight
- Deep-chested breeds: Require careful girth measurement
- Puppies: Size up to allow for growth
- Senior dogs: Consider comfort and ease of putting on
๐ก Pro Tip: When in doubt between two sizes, choose the larger size and adjust the straps for a comfortable fit. Most harnesses have adjustable components.