1. Measure your dog
When your dog is standing up, take accurate measurements according to the guidelines provided in each product’s size chart. Common measurements include back length (from the base of the neck to the base of the tail), neckline (around the base of the neck), and chest girth (the widest part of the rib cage). Ensuring your dog stands upright and still is crucial for getting precise numbers.
Accurate measurements ensure a better fit, maximizing your dog’s comfort, safety, and mobility. Ill-fitting gear can cause discomfort and restricted movement, so precision is key. Following size chart recommendations guarantees proper functionality and protection, whether for warmth, rain, or support.
Measuring tips:
- Ensure your dog remains calm and still during measurements.
- Have a friend assist by offering treats to keep the dog relaxed.
- For thick-furred dogs, press the fur down or part it to get accurate chest and back length measurements.
2. Open the item size chart
Once you've taken your dog's measurements, compare them carefully with the information provided in the product's size chart. Compare the measurements one at a time beginning with the key measurement.
By comparing these measurements to the size chart, you can avoid sizing mistakes, ensuring that your dog's gear not only fits well but also functions as intended, providing maximum comfort, freedom of movement, and protection. Always aim for a size that allows a bit of room for movement without being too tight or too loose.
Hurtta’s collection also includes sizes specially designed for specific breeds. These sizes are marked with a letter after the number, indicating they are tailored to fit those particular breeds perfectly.
For jackets and overalls, the back length is the most crucial measurement. This measurement is taken from the base of your dog’s neck (at the shoulders or withers) to the base of the tail.
For harnesses, the key measurement is the chest circumference. This is the widest part of your dog's rib cage, just behind the front legs.
Make sure to consider the key measurements when choosing a product. For example, with the Travel Harness ECO, the most important measurements are your dog's weight and chest circumference.
Size charts
Collars & Harnesses
Jackets & Vests
3. Choose the right size
Always prioritize comfort and adjustability, especially when your dog’s body type falls outside standard sizing options.
For more details about the specific adjustment features, check the "Key Features" section on the product page.
When selecting overalls for your dog, if their measurements fall between two sizes, it’s generally recommended to opt for the smaller size. A snugger size is often better and more functional, especially for active dogs, as it reduces the chances of the overall shifting or bunching during movement.
For jackets, the approach is a little different. If your dog’s back length falls between sizes and the product offers adjustable back length, it’s a good idea to choose the larger size. The flexibility of an adjustable back length ensures the jacket will sit securely without restricting movement or leaving gaps.
4. Consider your dog's body and fur type
When selecting the right size for your dog, their body shape plays a crucial role. Always prioritize comfort and adjustability, especially when your dog’s body type falls outside standard sizing options.
Slim or Lean Dogs: Choose a smaller size for a snug fit without excess fabric. Prevents slipping or moving out of place during activity.
Muscular or Stocky Dogs: Choose a larger size for a comfortable fit without restricting movement. Provides extra room around the chest and neck areas. Check the size chart for XL sizes.
Fur Type: Short-haired dogs need less room in their clothing whereas thick-furred dogs might need a larger size. Consider your dog's fur length and trimming as well, if in the winter their fur length is longer, then a different size item will be better for the winter than the summer when the fur is shorter.
5. Avoid these mistakes
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when choosing a size for your dog:
❌Choosing Based on Breed Guidelines Alone: While breed-specific size recommendations are helpful, individual dogs can vary significantly in size, so it's important to take your own dog’s measurements.
❌Selecting a Larger Size for "Growing Room": It might be tempting to size up, especially for puppies, but this often leads to poor fit and discomfort. Opt for the correct size and adjust later as your dog grows.
❌Overlooking Key Measurements: Some products prioritize certain measurements, like chest girth for harnesses or back length for coats. Focusing only on general size could result in a poor fit.
❌Assuming All Products Fit the Same: Different types of products (coats, harnesses, etc.) may have different fitting criteria, so avoid assuming a size in one product will fit the same in another.