How to Measure a Dog for Clothes

To measure your dog for clothes, record back length (neck to base of tail), chest girth (widest part of the ribs), and neck girth (where the collar sits). Use a soft tape, ensure a snug, not tight, fit. These measurements ensure comfort, safety, and the paw-fect fit for dog sweaters.

Step by Step: How to Measure Your Dog for Clothes

Taking accurate measurements isn’t just about getting the size right, it’s about ensuring your dog feels comfortable, looks great, and can move freely. Here’s how to measure your dog like a pro.

Step 1: Gather Supplies

• A soft measuring tape, rigid rulers don’t bend to your dog’s curves.
• A notepad or your phone to record each measurement.
• Treats to reward cooperation and keep your pup relaxed.

At Mimi Green, we always recommend setting the mood with positive reinforcement, measuring time should feel like playtime, not a chore.

Step 2: Position Your Dog

Make sure your dog is standing naturally on all fours, not sitting or lying down, as this affects their posture and measurements.

Use treats as a distraction and to encourage them to stay still. A relaxed dog ensures more accurate numbers and a smoother experience for both of you.

Step 3: Take Measurements

• Back Length: From where the neck meets the shoulders to just above the tail base.
• Chest Girth: Around the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs.
• Neck Girth: Where their collar sits; leave room for two fingers to ensure comfort.
• Optional > Tummy Length: From collar to the end of the ribs, a helpful extra for snug sweaters or dogs with unique proportions.

Always measure twice to be sure! At Mimi Green, we believe a second check can be the difference between a snug fit and an awkward one.

Step 4: Compare with Size Charts

Each brand’s sizing is different. That’s why it’s essential to match your dog’s measurements to the specific chart provided by the manufacturer.

When in doubt, size up. A slightly looser fit is usually better than a restrictive one, especially for active pups. For example, our Mimi Green sizing accommodates various dog body types, including broad-chested bully breeds and lean sighthounds.

The Dog Measurements You Need Before Buying Clothes

1. Back Length

Measure from where your dog’s neck meets the shoulders, tracing along the spine to just an inch above the base of the tail. This is often the primary sizing guide for dog clothes.

Mimi Green’s Tip: Always measure with your dog standing naturally. Sitting or lying down alters posture and can throw off your numbers.

2. Chest Girth

Wrap a soft measuring tape around the widest part of your dog’s chest, usually right behind the front legs. This is the most critical measurement for stocky breeds like pitbulls, bulldogs, and boxers.

Many pet parents worry about getting this right, and with good reason. A too-tight fit here can restrict breathing and movement. When in doubt, size up slightly to give your dog room to move comfortably.

3. Neck Girth

Measure around the part of your dog’s neck where their collar normally sits. You should be able to slip two fingers comfortably between the tape and your dog’s neck.

Mimi Green’s Tip: Bully breeds tend to have thicker necks relative to their head size. This makes neck girth especially important when choosing clothing that goes over the head.

4. Optional: Tummy Length

For custom sweaters or tailored outfits, measuring from where the collar sits to the end of the ribcage is invaluable. This often-overlooked measurement ensures that garments fit snugly without being restrictive, particularly for dogs with unique body shapes like dachshunds or corgis.

Considerations for Different Dog Breeds and Body Types

Every dog is unique, so should be their clothes. Here are breed-specific considerations to ensure comfort and style.

Stocky Breeds (e.g., Pitbulls)

Chest girth is the most critical measurement here. Broad-chested dogs often don’t fit standard size charts. When outfitting your pitbull, always prioritize chest room over back length.

Also, ensure clothing doesn’t restrict leg movement, tight sleeves or narrow neck openings can make walks uncomfortable.

Long-Coated Breeds

Long-haired dogs risk matting under poorly-fitted clothing. Choose garments with smooth linings and avoid tight elastic around the neck or chest. Rolled collars can also help minimize hair breakage.

For accuracy, measure after grooming, your dog’s post-salon silhouette is the one that counts!

Puppies

Puppies grow fast. Leave extra room when selecting clothing and check fit often. What works this month might be snug by next!

Mimi Green’s Tips to Ensure a Paw-fect Fit

• Layering: Planning to dress your dog in layers? Measure them with those layers on to avoid too-tight outfits.
• Material Matters: Fleece works for chilly weather, but opt for breathable cotton or laminated cotton for warmer days or sensitive skin.
• Martingale Collars: When measuring for clothes worn over collars, remember Martingales should have at least 1.5 inches between the rings when taut, this ensures comfort and prevents accidental tightening.
• Harness Compatibility: If your dog wears a harness regularly, check that clothes fit comfortably over or allow for easy access to it. Mimi Green designs accommodate such practical needs without sacrificing style.

What Size Clothes Should I Get My Dog?

Use your dog’s measurements to match with the brand’s chart. Don’t guess based on breed alone, an XL in one brand might be a Medium in another.

If your dog’s measurements fall between sizes, always size up for freedom of movement and comfort.

Consider how the clothing will be used:

• Snug fit for sweaters meant to keep your dog warm.
• Looser fit for raincoats or layered outfits.

For broad-chested breeds like pitbulls, always prioritize chest girth over back length when choosing a size, comfort and range of motion come first.

Our Favorite Materials for Dog Clothes

Choosing the right material is as essential as getting the right size, it affects how comfortable your dog feels, how the clothing performs, and how long it lasts. At Mimi Green, we handpick our materials based on both functionality and fashion.

Why Material Choice Impacts Fit and Comfort

• Velvet: Velvet offers a soft, luxurious texture that’s perfect for making a style statement. It’s our go-to for photoshoots, special occasions, and anyone who wants their pup to stand out. Bonus: it feels as good as it looks!
• Waterproof Fabrics: For outdoorsy pups who never met a mud puddle they didn’t love, waterproof fabrics are a must. These materials keep dogs dry and comfortable, even during the messiest adventures. Our waterproof options also clean up in a snap, perfect for pet parents on the go.
• Breathable Cotton: Cotton is an excellent choice for dogs prone to overheating or those with sensitive skin. It’s lightweight, natural, and gentle, ideal for warmer days or for breeds that need extra airflow under their clothes.
• Biothane: This modern, durable material is waterproof, odor-resistant, and tough enough for the most active dogs. Biothane stands up to rough play, bad weather, and anything else your adventurous pup gets into, without compromising on comfort.

How Mimi Green Makes Dog Clothes Differently

At Mimi Green, we believe your dog deserves more than a generic, mass-produced item. That’s why every product is designed or embroidered in-house.

• Personalization That Lasts: Our embroidery is more than decoration, it’s engineered to withstand years of wear, even with the roughest play. Unlike other brands, we hand-stitch every letter and detail, ensuring it stays put.
• Ethically Produced: We never mass-produce. We don’t cut corners with cheap, scratchy nylon. Our business supports fair wages, personal growth, and sustainability for our team.
• Unique Material Selection: From buttery velvet to waterproof Biothane, we offer an unmatched range of materials, including limited-edition prints you won’t find anywhere else.
• Designed for Real Dogs: Our designs accommodate everything from harness use to stocky chests and special needs dogs. We know not all dogs fit the mold, that’s why we don’t either.

Ready to Stop Guessing and Start Dressing Your Dog 

Measuring your dog is just the first step. The real transformation happens when you pair those measurements with clothes made just for them. At Mimi Green, we take the guesswork out of finding the paw-fect fit by offering solutions tailored to your dog’s unique shape, lifestyle, and personality.

Here’s How Mimi Green Can Help:

1. Custom-Fit Dog Clothes and Collars: Every product is handmade to order based on real measurements, not generic sizing. This ensures comfort, style, and safety in every adventure, whether your dog is a muddy trail blazer or a couch snuggler.
2. Durable, Personalized Embroidery: Our embroidery isn’t just pretty, it’s designed to endure everything from daily walks to wild playdates, giving your dog personalized style that lasts.
3. Materials for Every Lifestyle: From soft, stylish velvet for family portraits to rugged, waterproof Biothane for hiking enthusiasts, we’ve curated materials that work as hard as your dog does.

Is Mimi Green Right for You?

✅ You value quality, style, and comfort for your dog.
✅ You appreciate the peace of mind that comes with knowing your dog’s clothes and accessories fit perfectly and safely.

Imagine This…

Every walk is comfortable. Every photo looks stunning. Your dog isn’t just wearing clothes, they’re wearing pieces made with love, care, and purpose. No more struggling with ill-fitting outfits or worrying about chafing, overheating, or discomfort. Just a happy, stylish pup, and a proud pet parent who knows they made the right choice.

Ready to elevate your dog’s wardrobe? Shop our dog clothes or contact us for personalized options.

We can’t wait to make something special for you and your furry family member!