Coat size is typically determined by measuring from the base of neck to the base of tail.
Measuring Position for Your Dog:
Be sure your dog is standing squarely as if he were a show dog on a flat surface, with head up, for an accurate measurement. If he/she is sitting, slouching or laying down, stand them up.
Always take your measurement with your dog looking straight ahead.
An alternate measuring position would be getting the dog stand on two hind legs while someone holds the front paws. This enables the back to be elongated for measuring and may help keep them looking straight ahead.
You might want to have someone help during the measuring since this will speed up the whole process.
Tools to Measure With:
Use a cloth tape measure. Allow the tape measure to lay along the natural curves of your dog's body.
You typically want to measure a bit loosely so there is room to move and breath, just not too loose.
 If you don't have a cloth tape measure, you can use a non-stretchable piece of string or twine. Then measure the results against a flat ruler.
Have paper and pen handy so you can write down the measurements. When all done - measure again!
What to Measure
Topline Length (Same as Length):
This is measured along the top of the spine from the withers (the highest part of the back between the shoulders)  where the neck joins the body to the base of the tail. The base of the tail is the beginning of his tail, not to the tip.
Girth: Chest Measurement
Chest circumference is measured around largest part of chest, about 1/2" behind the front legs or just behind the withers. This measurement is around the widest part of the chest. You want to make sure you measure the thickest part of the chest.
Go down the side, under the rib cage, and back up the other side to the starting point.
The cloth tape should be snug but not tight.
Base of the Neck:
Just below the collar, the point where the neck joins the body. This is the highest part of the back between the shoulders
Base of the Tail:
The point where the tail joins the body, not to the tip of the tail.
Did you know?
Dog Height:
The standard measurement of a dogs height is from the withers to the floor.
This article was written by Doreen Simpson. Visit www.dbdogshop.com for more "Good Ideas for Good Dogs."
Copyright December 2008 by DBDogShop.com
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