How to Measure Your Dog for a Harness (Expert Tested)

Measuring your dog correctly is the first step to ensuring a safe, comfortable, and secure fit for every walk. Whether you’re choosing a no-pull harness, a car-safe option, or an everyday walking harness, getting accurate measurements can save you from returns, discomfort, or escape risks. 

If you’re still deciding which style to buy, explore our Dog Harness Collection to see the full range of options once you know your dog’s size. Once you have your dog’s measurements, you can also read our detailed guide on how to put on a dog harness for proper fitting instructions.

Why Correct Measurement Matters for a Harness

A properly fitted harness is essential for your dog’s comfort and safety. A harness that’s too tight can rub and restrict movement, while a loose one can cause chafing or even allow your dog to wriggle free. Measuring your dog before buying also ensures better control during walks, especially for pullers or active breeds.

What You’ll Need Before Measuring Your Dog

You don’t need any fancy equipment, just a few basic items:

Soft tape measure (or string and a ruler as an alternative)
Pen and paper to record measurements
A calm space — keep your dog relaxed with treats or a favourite toy

For a full-size reference, check our Harness Size Guide once you’ve noted your dog’s measurements.

How to Measure a Dog for a Harness – Step by Step

Step 1 – Measure the Chest Girth

Wrap the tape measure around the widest part of your dog’s chest, just behind the front legs. Keep it snug but not tight — you should be able to slide two fingers underneath. Chest girth is the most important measurement for choosing a harness.

Step 2 – Measure the Neck (if required)

Some harnesses, especially adjustable or car-safe styles, also require a neck measurement. Measure around the base of the neck where a collar would normally sit.

Step 3 – Check Your Dog’s Weight

While most sizing charts rely on girth, weight can help confirm you’ve chosen the right size — especially for car harnesses or no-pull harnesses designed for specific weight ranges. Consider adjustable harnesses if your dog is still growing or between sizes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring

Guessing sizes instead of measuring: Dogs vary, even within breeds
Pulling the tape too tight or leaving it too loose: Always allow for two fingers’ space
Not re-measuring after weight changes: Check again if your dog gains or loses weight

Harness Size Charts & Breed Examples

Use your measurements to compare against a size chart (our Size Guide has full details). As a rough guide:

Small breeds (Pugs, Terriers): Quick Fit, Express, Step-In Harnesses
Medium breeds (Spaniels, Beagles): Crosscheck, Chest Plate
Large breeds (Labradors, Huskies): Convert, Chest Plate, Drive Harnesses

You can also browse our Small Dog Harnesses or Large Dog Harnesses collections for breed-specific options.

Tips for Getting the Perfect Fit After Measuring

Adjust straps gradually — the “two-finger rule” is key
Let your dog walk around indoors to check for comfort
Check after the first few walks for rubbing or chafing

Adjustable harnesses are ideal for fine-tuning the fit, especially for growing dogs.

How Each Harness Fits – Step-by-Step Instructions

Understanding how each harness should be fitted can help you confirm the right size and ensure your dog is comfortable. Here’s a quick guide for our most popular harnesses:

1. Crosscheck Harness

The Crosscheck Harness fits securely with a loop-under design to gently redirect pulling.

Step 1: Unclip the harness
Step 2: Slip the circular part over your dog’s head, ensuring the EzyDog logo is on the back
Step 3: Wrap the strap under the body and click to fasten
Step 4: Attach the leash to the back D-ring or side D-ring to reduce pulling

2. X-Link Harness

The X-Link offers front and rear leash points for flexible training and control.

Step 1: Unclip the harness
Step 2: Place it over your dog’s head, stepping the front paw through the left opening
Step 3: Pull the strap under the right armpit, buckle, and tighten securely
Step 4: Clip the leash to the front D-ring for training or the back D-ring for regular walks

3. Convert Harness

Built for larger dogs, the Convert harness provides strong support and easy adjustments.

Step 1: Unclip the harness
Step 2: Slip the circular part over your dog’s head with the handle on top
Step 3: Buckle under the stomach, adjusting for a snug fit
Step 4: Clip the leash to the back or the front if you have the UpFront attachment

4. Express Harness

A lightweight option, the Express harness is easy to fit and ideal for everyday walks.

Step 1: Unclip the harness
Step 2: Place it over your dog’s head with the handle facing upwards
Step 3: Pass the strap under the armpits, buckle, and tighten securely
Step 4: Attach the leash to the front (if you have the UpFront attachment) or back D-ring

5. Chest Plate Harness

The Chest Plate’s moulded EVA panel distributes pressure for comfort and control.

Step 1: Unclip the harness
Step 2: Place your dog’s paw into the gap and position the chest plate against the chest
Step 3: Wrap straps around the back and buckle securely
Step 4: Attach the leash to the back D-ring

6. Quick Fit Harness

Designed for speed and ease, the Quick Fit harness goes on as simply as a collar.

Step 1: Unclip the harness
Step 2: Slip the circular part over the head with the handle on the back
Step 3: Buckle under the chest, tightening for a secure fit
Step 4: Clip the leash to the back D-ring

7. Drive Car Harness

Crash-tested and car-safe, the Drive harness ensures security on every journey.

Step 1: Unclip the harness
Step 2: Position the chest plate on the chest and slip your dog’s legs through the gaps
Step 3: Buckle at the back, tightening securely
Step 4: Use the handles at the back to thread the seatbelt through for car safety

Recommended Harnesses Based on Fit and Size

Once you’ve measured your dog, here are some trusted options:

Quick Fit Harness – best for everyday walks and easy fitting
Chest Plate Harness – excellent for even weight distribution
Crosscheck Harness – ideal for dogs that pull or need training
Drive Car Harness – crash-tested and secure for car journeys

Explore our full Dog Harness Collection to find the perfect style that matches your dog’s measurements.

Final Thoughts: Ready to Measure and Choose the Perfect Harness?

Measuring your dog may seem like a small step, but it makes all the difference in their comfort and safety. With the right size and style, every walk becomes a better experience for both of you.

Once you have your measurements, check out our best products for dog harnesses to find the perfect fit for your furry friend.