Dog Harness Size Guide

Getting the Best Fit

Choosing the correct dog harness size is essential for comfort, safety, and proper control. A harness that is too tight can restrict movement, while one that is too loose may allow your dog to slip out.

This guide explains how to measure your dog correctly, how harnesses should fit, and typical harness sizing across different breeds.

Tip: If you're viewing this chart on a mobile device, zooming out or rotating your phone horizontally may make the tables easier to read.

How to Measure Your Dog for a Harness

The most important measurement for choosing a harness is your dog’s chest circumference. This is measured around the widest part of the ribcage, just behind the front legs.

Step 1: Measure the Chest

Wrap a soft measuring tape around the widest part of your dog’s chest.

Measure just behind the front legs
Ensure the tape sits snug but not tight
Record the measurement in centimetres or inches

Step 2: Measure the Neck (Optional)

Some harness designs also include neck straps. Measure around the base of the neck where a collar would normally sit.

Step 3: Check Harness Adjustability

Most quality harnesses include adjustable straps to allow a comfortable and secure fit across a range of sizes.

Typical Dog Harness Size Chart

Harness Size	Chest Size (cm)	Chest Size (inches)	Typical Dog Size
XS	30 – 40 cm	12 – 16 in	Toy breeds
S	40 – 55 cm	16 – 22 in	Small breeds
M	55 – 70 cm	22 – 27 in	Medium breeds
L	70 – 90 cm	27 – 35 in	Large breeds
XL	90 – 110 cm	35 – 43 in	Giant breeds

Because harness sizing varies slightly between brands, always compare your dog’s chest measurement with the size chart of the specific harness.

How a Dog Harness Should Fit

A properly fitted harness should be snug enough to prevent slipping but loose enough to allow natural movement.

Two Finger Rule

You should be able to comfortably slide two fingers between the harness and your dog’s body.

Check Shoulder Movement

The harness should not restrict shoulder movement or rub against the front legs during walks.

Secure but Comfortable

If the harness rotates around the dog’s body or slides toward the neck, it may be too loose.

Typical Harness Sizes by Breed

While individual dogs vary, the following sizes are commonly suitable for these breed groups.

Small Dogs (Usually Size XS–S)

Chihuahua
Pomeranian
Yorkshire Terrier
Maltese
Toy Poodle
Mini Dachshund
Shih Tzu

Medium Dogs (Usually Size M)

Beagle
French Bulldog
Cocker Spaniel
Border Collie
Staffordshire Bull Terrier
Australian Shepherd

Large Dogs (Usually Size L–XL)

Labrador Retriever
Golden Retriever
German Shepherd
Doberman
Rottweiler
Boxer
Husky

You can explore our full range of harnesses here:

View Dog Harness Collection

Dog Harness Size FAQs

How tight should a dog harness be?

A harness should be snug but not restrictive. You should be able to fit two fingers between the harness and your dog’s body.

Is chest size the most important measurement?

Yes. The chest circumference is typically the primary measurement used when selecting a harness.

Can puppies wear harnesses?

Yes, but choose adjustable harnesses that can accommodate growth and regularly check the fit.

What if my dog is between two harness sizes?

It is usually best to choose the larger size if the harness includes adjustable straps.

Do all brands use the same harness sizes?

No. Harness sizing can vary between brands, so always compare your dog’s measurements with the specific size chart provided.