A harness or collar that fits properly is safer, more comfortable and much harder for your dog to slip out of. All you need is a soft tape measure and two minutes. Here's how to get it right.
What you need
- A soft fabric tape measure. No tape? Use a piece of string and measure it against a ruler.
- A few treats to keep your dog standing still.
1. Measure the neck (for collars)
Measure around the middle of your dog's neck, where a collar would naturally sit. Keep the tape snug but not tight: you should be able to slide two fingers flat between the tape and your dog's neck. That two-finger gap is the fit you want once the collar is on.
2. Measure the chest (for harnesses)
Measure around the widest part of your dog's ribcage, just behind the front legs. This chest (girth) measurement matters most for a harness. For harnesses with a neck strap, like an H-style harness, take the neck measurement from step 1 as well.
3. Pick a size and adjust
Our Doco harnesses and collars come in a range of sizes, from XS up to XL on many styles. Compare your measurements with the size options on the product page. If your dog is between sizes, go for the larger size and tighten the adjustable straps. Once it's on, check the two-finger fit on every strap, and check again after a few walks because straps can loosen.
Puppies: re-measure every few weeks while they're growing.
Harness or collar?
- A collar is ideal for carrying ID tags and for calm walkers. Try the Doco Signature Dog Collar, or the reflective Doco Vario Dog Collar for early-morning and evening walks.
- A harness takes pressure off the neck and spreads it across the chest, which suits dogs that pull, small breeds and dogs with sensitive throats. The Doco Signature Step-In Harness is quick to put on, and the Doco Signature H Harness adjusts at both the neck and chest for a custom fit.
- Dogs that pull: the Doco Vertex Dog Harness has a front D-ring. Clip the leash to the front, and gentle pressure guides your dog back towards you.
- Active and outdoor dogs: the padded neoprene Doco Vario Dog Harness has reflective stitching and a grab handle on top.
Choosing a leash length
- 120cm keeps your dog close, which is handy on busy pavements and for training.
- 150cm to 180cm gives a bit more freedom to sniff on relaxed walks in quieter areas.
- Double-handle leashes like the Doco Vertex Dog Leash and Doco Vario D Handle Dog Leash add a second traffic handle near the clip for instant close control.
Build a matching set
Doco's Signature, Loco, Vario and Vertex ranges each come as a collar, harness and leash, so it's easy to match. When you open a product, the Pair It With section shows the matching pieces. Browse all dog collars, leashes and harnesses.
You'll also find our ranges at pet stores we supply around South Africa.