Dog Coat Size Guide: How to Find the Right Fit
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To find the right dog coat size, measure three things: back length (from the base of the neck to the base of the tail), chest girth (around the widest part of the ribcage, just behind the front legs) and neck circumference. Compare those numbers with the size chart for the specific coat you are buying, and if your dog falls between sizes, let the chest measurement decide. A good fit covers the back without reaching the tail, closes comfortably around the chest and leaves the legs free to move.
Dog coat sizes are not standardised, so a medium in one brand can be very different from a medium in another. Measuring properly takes five minutes and saves the hassle of a coat that rubs, gapes or slips round to one side.
What you need
- A soft fabric tape measure (a piece of string and a ruler will do)
- A few treats to keep your dog still
- Somewhere to note down the numbers
Measure with your dog standing square on all four feet, not sitting or lying down, as this changes the shape of the back and chest. For a step-by-step walkthrough with tips for wriggly dogs, see how to measure your dog.
The three key measurements
1. Back length
Measure along the spine from the base of the neck, roughly where a collar sits, to the base of the tail. This is usually the measurement coat sizes are labelled by. Do not include the tail itself.
2. Chest girth
Wrap the tape around the deepest, widest part of the ribcage, just behind the front legs. Keep it snug but not tight; you should be able to slide two fingers under the tape. Deep-chested breeds such as Whippets, Greyhounds and Dachshunds often need a size chosen by chest rather than back length.
3. Neck circumference
Measure around the base of the neck where a collar would rest, again leaving room for two fingers. This matters most for coats with a fixed or high collar.
Reading a size chart
Once you have your numbers, compare them with the chart on the product page rather than relying on breed alone. A few guidelines:
- Chest first. If the back length and chest point to different sizes, choose by chest. A coat that is a little long is far more comfortable than one that will not fasten.
- Between sizes? Sizing up usually works better for padded coats, which take up a little more room on the inside.
- Use breed guidance as a starting point. Breed suggestions are helpful, but individual dogs vary widely, especially crossbreeds.
How fit differs by coat style
| Style | How it should fit | Key measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Puffer or padded coat | Close to the body for warmth, with room for the padding. Should not restrict the shoulders. | Chest girth |
| Raincoat | Covers the back to just short of the tail so rain runs off, without dragging on the ground. | Back length |
| Cape | Drapes lightly over the back and shoulders, with a looser, easy fit. | Back length and neck |
Puffer coats
Padded coats keep in warmth best when they sit close to the body, so chest girth matters most. Check that the coat does not press into the armpits or pull across the shoulders when your dog walks. The Hampstead Puffer is padded and water-resistant, with adjustable fastening and reflective detailing, and comes in sizes S to 2XL.
Raincoats
A raincoat's job is to keep the back and sides dry, so back length is the key number. It should finish just before the base of the tail. The Regent Raincoat is a waterproof soft-shell with a fleece lining and reflective detailing, available from XS to 3XL. Its size chart includes breed guidance to help you choose, though we still recommend measuring first.
Capes
Capes have a lighter, looser fit and suit small dogs who do not like a fully fitted coat. Measure back length and neck. The Kensington Check Cape is a lightweight camel cape with a heritage check collar, designed for small dogs, in sizes S to XL.
How to check the fit once it arrives
- Two-finger test. You should be able to slide two fingers under the chest strap and around the neck.
- Watch them walk. The coat should not twist round, ride up or restrict the legs and shoulders.
- Check the length. It should stop short of the tail and, for male dogs, sit clear of where they wee.
- Look for rubbing. After the first few walks, check under the front legs and around the neck for any redness or flattened fur.
- Check behaviour. A dog that freezes, keeps trying to sit or scratches at the coat may find it uncomfortable.
If it is not quite right, our returns are hassle free within 30 days, so you can send it back and order the size that fits.
Does your dog need a coat at all?
Not every dog needs one. Small, short-coated, older or lean dogs feel the cold more than thick-coated breeds. Our guide do dogs need coats in the UK? covers which dogs benefit. Once you have the right coat, how to wash a dog coat without ruining it explains how to keep it in good condition. For the full picture, browse our complete coats and weather guide or our clothing collection.
Frequently asked questions
How do I measure my dog for a coat?
Measure the back from the base of the neck to the base of the tail, the chest around the widest part just behind the front legs, and the neck where a collar sits. Measure with your dog standing.
Should a dog coat be tight or loose?
Snug but not tight. You should be able to fit two fingers under the straps, and your dog should be able to walk, sit and lie down without the coat pulling.
What if my dog is between sizes?
Let the chest measurement decide. For padded coats, sizing up is usually more comfortable.
Can I size by breed?
Breed guidance is a helpful starting point, but dogs of the same breed vary, so always check your dog's measurements against the size chart.