How to Measure a Dog for a Harness

How to Measure a Dog for a Harness

Sep 22, 2023Paige Gillard

As a devoted dog owner, you understand that your furry companion's comfort and safety are paramount, especially during your shared adventures. That's why choosing the right harness is more than just a decision – it's an investment in your dog's well-being. In this guide, we've taken you through the essential steps of measuring your dog accurately for a harness, ensuring a snug fit that enhances their comfort, control, and style. 

Now, let's explore the world of Poppy + Ted harnesses, where functionality meets aesthetics in perfect harmony. 

The Benefits of a Properly Fitted Harness

As a dog owner, you want the best for your furry friend, and that includes keeping them comfortable, safe, and stylish during walks and outdoor adventures. One of the key choices you'll make is whether to use a collar or a harness for your canine companion. While collars have their place, there's a reason why harnesses are gaining popularity among pet owners and trainers alike.

Improved Control:

For dogs that are energetic, easily distracted, or strong pullers, a harness provides you with better control. When you have control over their chest and shoulders, you can guide their movements more effectively without causing discomfort. This is particularly beneficial for training purposes, making walks more enjoyable for both you and your pup.

Less Strain, More Comfort:

A properly fitted harness distributes the force across the dog's chest and shoulders, reducing the risk of injury and ensuring a more comfortable walking experience.

Enhanced Safety:

A well-fitted harness adds an extra layer of safety, especially if you have a Houdini-like escape artist on your hands. Dogs who can slip out of collars or harnesses that are too loose might find it much harder to do so with a harness that snugly fits their body. This feature is crucial in preventing your furry friend from darting away unexpectedly, protecting them from potential dangers.

Ideal for Various Activities:

Whether you're going for a leisurely stroll, an intense hike, or even participating in dog sports, a harness is a versatile accessory. Its design allows you to attach the leash at different points, such as the back or the chest, depending on your dog's behavior and the activity at hand. This adaptability makes it a go-to choice for many pet owners who want to include their dogs in various outdoor activities.

The Poppy + Ted Difference: Adjustable Harnesses

At Poppy + Ted, we believe that every dog deserves to step out in style, which is why we've curated a collection of adjustable harnesses that combine comfort, durability, and aesthetics. Our adjustable harnesses are meticulously crafted to provide the ultimate walking experience for both you and your furry companion.

Comfortable Construction:

We understand that comfort is paramount when it comes to choosing the right harness for your dog. That's why each adjustable harness in our collection is thoughtfully constructed using a blend of durable polyester and neoprene fabric. This combination not only ensures the harness's longevity but also guarantees that your pup remains comfortable throughout the entirety of your walk. The soft and breathable materials prevent chafing and irritation, allowing your dog to move freely without any discomfort.

Easy Buckle Fastenings:

Getting ready for walks should be a hassle-free experience for both you and your pup. With our adjustable harnesses, we've simplified the process even further. The simple buckle fastenings make putting on and taking off the harness a breeze. No more wrestling with complicated straps or clips – just a quick and secure fastening that gets you both out the door and on your way in no time.

Machine Washable and Quick-Drying:

We know that outdoor adventures can sometimes get messy. That's why we've ensured that every adjustable harness from Poppy + Ted is not only fashionable and comfortable but also easy to clean. Our harnesses are machine washable, allowing you to keep them looking their best after every escapade. The quick-drying feature ensures that your pup won't have to wait long before slipping into their favorite harness again, ready for the next adventure.

Extra Tough Harnesses for Adventurous Pups:

For the pups who are always up for an adventure, we've designed a line of extra tough harnesses that are ready to tackle even the muddiest of trails. These tough dog harnesses are engineered to withstand rugged terrain and challenging conditions while keeping your dog comfortable and safe.

  • 3-Click Fastening System and Safety Buckle: Our tough dog harnesses feature a 3-click fastening system and an additional safety buckle at the neck. This dual mechanism ensures that your pup stays securely harnessed, giving you peace of mind during your outdoor escapades.
  • Fully Adjustable at Four Points: To ensure a snug and comfortable fit, our tough harnesses are fully adjustable at four points. This customization guarantees that your dog's harness won't shift during activity, maintaining both their comfort and your control.
  • Durable 600D Polyester Oxford Fabric: Crafted from sturdy 600D Polyester Oxford Fabric, these harnesses are built to handle rough conditions. The material's durability doesn't compromise on comfort, keeping your pup content during their toughest adventures.
  • Built-in Safety Handle: Each tough dog harness features a safety handle that allows you to guide and train your dog effortlessly. This handle provides an extra layer of control when needed, making it an invaluable tool during training sessions.
  • PVC Coating for Mucky Adventures: We know that outdoor fun can sometimes get messy. That's why our tough harnesses are designed with a PVC coating that repels dirt and moisture. This feature ensures that your pup's harness stays in great condition even after the messiest playdates.

Measuring Your Dog for a Harness in 2 Simple Steps

Getting the right fit for your dog's harness is crucial to ensure their comfort and safety during walks and adventures. Follow these straightforward steps to accurately measure your furry companion and find the perfect-fitting harness:

Step 1: Measure the Chest:

The chest measurement, also known as the girth, is the first measurement you need to take. This measurement is taken by placing the measuring tape around the widest part of your dog's torso, typically just behind the front legs. 

Make sure the tape measure is snug but not overly tight or too loose, just like you'd want the harness to fit. As a helpful guideline, you should be able to fit at least two fingers between the tape and your dog's body. This not only ensures a comfortable fit but also allows for proper adjustment. 

Additionally, maintain about a two-finger distance from the armpit area to avoid any irritation from straps rubbing against the skin.

Step 2: Measure the Neck:

Next, measure the lower part of your dog's neck, as this is where the harness will rest. Depending on the style of the harness, the neck measurement placement may vary, so be sure to check where the harness will sit on your dog's neck first. 

To measure the neck, simply determine the widest part at the base of the neck and take note of the measurement. Like the chest measurement, ensure that the tape measure is snug but not constricting. Remember the two-finger rule to maintain a comfortable fit.

Taking accurate measurements is the foundation for finding the right harness size for your pup. These measurements will guide you in selecting a harness that offers optimal comfort and functionality. 

At Poppy + Ted, we understand that a well-fitted harness is essential for both your dog's well-being and your peace of mind. Armed with these measurements, you're now ready to explore our range of adjustable harnesses and choose the perfect one that matches your pup's style and ensures their safety on every adventure.

Outfit Your Pup in Comfort and Style with Poppy + Ted Harnesses

Ensuring your dog's comfort and safety is a top priority, and choosing the right harness is a significant step toward achieving that. Through our detailed guide, you've learned the importance of accurate measurements and the role they play in providing your furry friend with a harness that fits just right. At Poppy + Ted, we're committed to offering not only stylish but also well-fitting harnesses that enhance your dog's adventures while keeping them secure and comfortable.

Remember, a properly fitted harness reduces strain, promotes comfort, and enables better control during walks and activities. Our adjustable harnesses combine comfort, durability, and style, ensuring that your pup is ready for any outing, from casual strolls to thrilling hikes. Shop our full collection of dog harnesses online now. 

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