How to Measure Your Dog for a Collar, Harness, Coat & Jumper
Coco & Pud's complete guide to fitting your dog — collars, harnesses, coats, jumpers and leads. Designed in Australia, shipped worldwide.
The secret to a well-fitting collar, harness, coat or jumper is simple: measure your dog, don't guess from weight. Three measurements cover almost everything — neck, chest girth and back length. Because sizing varies between designs, always measure your dog and check the size chart on the individual product listing before ordering.
The three measurements that matter
- Neck — around the base of the neck where a collar sits. For collars.
- Chest girth — the widest part of the ribcage, just behind the front legs. The most important measurement for harnesses and coats.
- Back length — from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. For coats and jumpers.
The two-finger rule: a collar or harness fits well when you can slide two fingers between the strap and your dog — snug, not tight. See our How to Measure Your Pet guide.
Collars — how to fit
Measure the neck and allow room for two fingers. Sizes run XXS–L across most designs — as a rough guide, tiny and puppy necks take XXS–XS, small-to-medium dogs S–M, and larger dogs L, but always check the listing. Shop the Le Jardin Dog Collar (XXS–L) or the Essential Pup Dog Collar.
Harnesses — how to fit
Chest girth is the key number. For adjustable and reversible harnesses, also measure your dog's head to make sure it fits comfortably through the harness neck opening. Choose your style:
- Step-in — easy on and off, great for puppies and small dogs: Essential Pup Step In Harness (XXS–L).
- Adjustable — adjusts at the neck and girth for a precise fit, ideal for deep-chested or between-size dogs: Doxie Rose Adjustable Harness or Skating Dogs Adjustable Harness.
Coats & jumpers — how to fit
For jumpers, measure your dog's neck, chest and back length — all three are equally important. And because wool knits stretch, if in doubt, size down. For warmth on cold-weather walks, the Coco Cable Dog Sweater (XXS 25cm – XL 50cm, sized by back length). For rain, the Waterproof Dog Coat (20–45cm), with a big-dog version up to 75cm. A Medium in one design may differ from a Medium in another, so always check that listing's size chart.
Leads — match to your collar & harness size
| Lead size | Collar size | Harness size |
|---|---|---|
| Small | XXS–S | XXS–S |
| Medium | Medium | Small or Medium |
| Large | Medium or Large | Medium, Large or XL |
Our rope leads are a great all-rounder — strong enough to suit collars Small to Large and harnesses XS to XL. Or pick a matching Essential Pup lead to complete a coordinated set.
Fitting your dog — frequently asked questions
How do I measure my dog for a harness?
Measure chest girth at the widest point just behind the front legs, then match it to the size chart on the product listing. For adjustable or reversible harnesses, also check that your dog's head fits comfortably through the neck opening.
How tight should a dog collar be?
Snug enough to stay on, loose enough to slide two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck.
How do I choose the right size jumper?
Measure your dog's neck, chest and back length — all three matter. As wool knits stretch, size down if you're between sizes.
Do sizes differ between designs?
Yes — a Medium in one style may not match a Medium in another, so always check the size chart on the specific listing before ordering.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. Coco & Pud is designed in Australia and ships worldwide, with same or next-day dispatch and free shipping over $150 within Australia.
Designed and made by Coco & Pud.
