The Most Common Mistakes When Measuring Your Dog – and How to Avoid Them 🐕✂️
We often get asked: is it better to choose a standard size or go for a custom-made outfit?
The answer is simple – the best-fitting outfit is one that’s made to measure. 🧵
That said, many of you opt for ready-made sizes – and that’s totally understandable!
The most common concern with custom sizing is the fear of incorrect measurements.
That’s why today we’re sharing how to avoid the most common mistakes when measuring your dog, and what to pay special attention to – whether you’re ordering a standard size or going custom.
Always start by reading the measuring instructions 📏
Every company might have slightly different guidelines on how to measure your dog.
Some may ask for the neck circumference at the base, others just behind the ears.
The same goes for back length and chest girth.
That’s why it’s essential to carefully read our step-by-step measuring guide before making a purchase – it clearly explains how to take accurate measurements.
Don’t rely on size labels alone 🏷️
Just because your dog wore size “W1” from another store doesn’t mean that size will fit here.
Sizing can vary greatly between brands – it’s just like human clothing: a “Medium” in one brand might be a “Small” in another.
That’s why actual measurements matter more than labels.
The most common mistake: measuring the back when the dog’s head is down 🐶⬇️
This is the number one error.
If your dog’s head is lowered while measuring – for example, sniffing or looking down – the back arches, making the measurement too long.
An outfit that’s too long can slide down or cover the tail, which many dogs find uncomfortable.
So, it’s best to measure your dog while they are standing straight, with their head held slightly up – like at a dog show.
That’s when the back length is most accurate.
Pay attention to proportions 📐
How else can you tell if a measurement might be off?
A good red flag is if the back length and chest girth are almost the same.
That’s very rare – usually, the chest is significantly larger.
The exception is very small puppies, whose bodies haven’t fully developed yet.
What if your dog won’t stay still to be measured? 🤹
It happens!
Puppies, energetic dogs, or fidgety sighthounds – we totally get it.
In this case, it’s best to ask someone to help.
One person holds and calms the dog, while the other takes the measurements.
Treats can also work wonders!
If something goes wrong and the outfit doesn’t fit – we won’t leave you hanging 💌
While custom-made items can’t be returned – as they are crafted specifically for your pup – if needed, we do offer alterations to ensure a perfect fit.
That said, this is quite rare – we usually receive messages saying everything fits just right!
What’s more, if we notice any unusual measurements in your order that might suggest a mistake, we’ll always contact you by email before we start sewing.
We’ll ask if the measurements are correct and confirm whether to proceed as is or adjust anything.
It’s always worth writing to us before ordering 📧
If anything is unclear or confusing – don’t hesitate!
You can also send us photos of how your dog was measured – this helps us a lot in assessing the accuracy and ensuring a good fit.
We’re always happy to help and advise on any corrections needed.
And finally – don’t be afraid of made-to-measure! ✂️
It doesn’t have to be difficult or stressful, and the results are truly worth it.
We’re here to support and guide you every step of the way – from measuring, to choosing a model, to the final sewing.
Your pup deserves an outfit that not only looks great, but is also comfy and perfectly tailored. 🐕💖