Dog clothing returns are almost always a sizing problem, not a quality problem. A shirt that fits perfectly on one Pomeranian will be completely wrong for another — because dogs of the same breed can vary significantly in chest girth, back length, and neck size.

This guide gives you the exact measurements to take, what they mean for different clothing types, and a full breed size reference so you can order with confidence every time.

The Three Measurements You Need

1. Back Length

The single most important measurement for most dog clothing.

How to measure:

• Stand your dog on a flat surface (or have someone hold them steady)
• Place the tape measure at the base of the neck — the point where a collar would sit
• Run it along the spine to the base of the tail
• Note the measurement in centimetres

This tells you whether a shirt or jacket will cover your dog's body properly from neck to tail.

2. Chest Girth

Critical for jackets, harness vests, and anything with a belly strap.

How to measure:

• Find the widest point of the chest — usually just behind the front legs
• Wrap the tape measure around the full circumference
• Two-finger rule: snug but not tight
• Note in centimetres

3. Neck Girth

Important for turtlenecks, hoodies, and any top-opening garments.

How to measure:

• Find the base of the neck just above the shoulders
• Wrap the tape measure around — two-finger rule applies
• Note in centimetres

Tip: Always measure all three. Back length and chest girth often suggest different sizes — when in doubt, use chest girth as the tiebreaker, and size up for anything with a neck opening.

Size Chart Reference by Breed

Common Sizing Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Mistake 1: Using weight alone Weight charts are the least reliable sizing method — a 5kg dog can vary by 10cm in chest girth depending on breed structure. Always use actual measurements.

Mistake 2: Measuring over existing clothing Always measure on bare fur. Measuring over a jumper or harness adds bulk and gives you an inaccurate reading.

Mistake 3: Ignoring the chest on deep-chested breeds French Bulldogs, Boxers, and Pugs have disproportionately wide chests relative to their back length. For these breeds, always use chest girth as the primary measurement and size up if in doubt.

Mistake 4: Buying tight "for a snug fit" Dog clothing should fit comfortably, not compressively. Tight clothing restricts movement, causes overheating, and makes dogs reluctant to wear it. If it looks snug, size up.

How to Know If a Garment Fits Correctly

Once the garment is on, run through this checklist:

✅ You can slide two fingers under the neck opening ✅ The hemline reaches the base of the tail without bunching ✅ Your dog can walk, sit, and lie down without restriction ✅ Front legs move freely through the arm holes ✅ Nothing rides up, twists, or pulls sideways during movement

If any of these fail, try the next size up before returning the item — many fit issues resolve with one size adjustment.

Dressing Your Dog for the First Time

Some dogs take to clothing immediately. Others need a few sessions to get comfortable. If yours is in the second camp:

1. Let them sniff the garment first — put it on the floor, let them investigate
2. Short sessions only — start with 5 minutes, not a full day
3. Pair with high-value treats — put the garment on, immediately give a treat they love
4. Never force it — if your dog is genuinely distressed (not just mildly reluctant), respect that and try again tomorrow

Most dogs who initially resist clothing come around within a week when positive associations are built consistently.

Browse Petivoo's Dog Clothing Range

Petivoo carries over 50 clothing products for small and medium dogs — from breathable summer shirts and UV-protection hats to winter coats and tactical harness vests, all with full size guides.

Browse the full collection at petivoo.store/collections/pet-fashion — free shipping over $50 and 30-day returns if the fit isn't right.