How Should a Dog Coat Fit? 6 Quick Fit Checks
By the PuppyUnion team · Updated
A dog coat should be snug but not tight: you should fit two fingers under it at the neck and chest, it should end around the base of the tail, and your dog should walk, sit and lie down without it pulling or twisting. If it rubs under the front legs or slides to one side, it's the wrong size or cut.
The 6 checks
| Check | Good fit | Too small | Too big |
|---|---|---|---|
| Neck | Two fingers fit under the collar line | Tight on the throat when the head goes down | Falls forward, gaps let snow in |
| Chest | Two fingers fit under the chest panel | Fasteners strain or gape | Coat slides to one side |
| Length | Ends around the base of the tail | Back half of the body exposed | Sits on the tail or bunches |
| Leg openings | No rubbing behind the front legs | Red or bald patches under the legs | Front legs slip out |
| Belly | Covers the chest and belly; clears the ground | Rides up | Drags; gets wet on boys |
| Movement | Normal walking, sitting, lying down | Short steps, stiff gait | Twisting, tripping |
If it doesn't fit
- Chest fits but too short: common for Dachshunds, Corgis and sighthounds – size up for length and use adjustable straps.
- Length fits but chest too tight: common for French Bulldogs, Pugs and Boston Terriers – size by chest, look for stretchy fabrics.
- Between sizes: go up for coats worn over a sweater or harness; go down for stretchy knits.
Measure before you buy – see how to measure your dog for clothes and the size guide. Every PuppyUnion product page shows that product's own size chart.
Frequently asked questions
How tight should a dog sweater be?
Snug enough not to slip or twist, loose enough that you can slide two fingers under it at the neck and chest. Stretchy knits can be a little closer-fitting than coats.
How long should a dog coat be?
It should end around the base of the tail. Longer coats sit on the tail and bunch; shorter ones leave the back half of your dog cold.
How do I know if my dog's clothes are too small?
Red or bald patches under the front legs, straining fasteners, a shortened stride or a coat that rides up are all signs it's too small.