Dogs in sweaters are absolutely heart-melting. When I first tried to put a sweater on my dog, I thought, “she is going to look so cute’’ But as I struggled to get it over her head and realized it was way too tight, I felt a mix of frustration and guilt.
She looked at me with those big eyes, clearly uncomfortable. That’s when I understood that just like us, dogs need clothes that fit well. Not just for style, but for comfort and warmth too especially during the colder months.
Table of Contents
Dog Sweater Size Chart by Breeds
| Breed | Weight | Chest | Back Length | Sweater Size | Key Notes |
| Chihuahua | 2-6 lbs | 10-12″ / 25-30 cm | 6-8″ / 15-20 cm | XXS | Snug neck, avoid bulk |
| Pomeranian | 3-7 lbs | 12-14″ / 30-35 cm | 8-10″ / 20-25 cm | XS | Fluffy fur = size up |
| Dachshund | 16-32 lbs | 14-18″ / 35-45 cm | 12-16″ / 30-40 cm | S | Extra-long cut needed |
| Pug | 14-18 lbs | 16-20″ / 40-50 cm | 10-12″ / 25-30 cm | S | Wide chest, stretchy fabric |
| French Bulldog | 16-28 lbs | 18-22″ / 45-55 cm | 11-13″ / 28-33 cm | M | Short back, broad shoulders |
| Beagle | 20-30 lbs | 20-24″ / 50-60 cm | 12-14″ / 30-35 cm | M | Standard fit |
| Corgi | 25-30 lbs | 22-26″ / 55-65 cm | 14-16″ / 35-40 cm | M | Long torso + deep chest |
| Shih Tzu | 9-16 lbs | 14-17″ / 35-43 cm | 10-12″ / 25-30 cm | S | Flowy fit (avoid matting) |
| Boston Terrier | 12-25 lbs | 18-21″ / 45-53 cm | 11-13″ / 28-33 cm | S/M | Athletic build |
| Cocker Spaniel | 24-30 lbs | 24-27″ / 60-68 cm | 14-16″ / 35-40 cm | L | Trim fur underarms |
| Bulldog | 40-55 lbs | 26-30″ / 65-75 cm | 12-14″ / 30-35 cm | L | Extra-wide chest |
| Shiba Inu | 18-24 lbs | 20-24″ / 50-60 cm | 14-16″ / 35-40 cm | M | Double coat = light material |
| Poodle (Toy) | 6-9 lbs | 12-14″ / 30-35 cm | 9-11″ / 23-28 cm | XS | Hypoallergenic fabrics |
| Poodle (Mini) | 10-15 lbs | 16-19″ / 40-48 cm | 11-13″ / 28-33 cm | S | Slim fit |
| Labrador | 55-80 lbs | 30-34″ / 75-85 cm | 18-20″ / 45-50 cm | XL | Windproof for outdoors |
| Golden Ret. | 60-75 lbs | 32-36″ / 80-90 cm | 20-22″ / 50-55 cm | XL | Water-resistant trim |
| German Shepherd | 50-90 lbs | 28-32″ / 70-80 cm | 22-24″ / 55-60 cm | XL | Tapered waist |
| Husky | 45-60 lbs | 26-30″ / 65-75 cm | 20-22″ / 50-55 cm | L/XL | Light insulation only |
| Pit Bull | 35-60 lbs | 24-28″ / 60-70 cm | 16-18″ / 40-45 cm | L | Muscular chest |
Dog Sweater Size Chart
| Size | Dog Weight | Neck Girth | Chest Girth | Back Length |
| XXS | Under 5 lbs (2.3 kg) | 6″ – 8″ (15 – 20 cm) | 10″ – 12″ (25 – 30 cm) | 6″ – 8″ (15 – 20 cm) |
| XS | 5 – 10 lbs (2.3 – 4.5 kg) | 8″ – 10″ (20 – 25 cm) | 12″ – 15″ (30 – 38 cm) | 8″ – 10″ (20 – 25 cm) |
| S | 10 – 20 lbs (4.5 – 9 kg) | 10″ – 12″ (25 – 30 cm) | 16″ – 20″ (40 – 50 cm) | 10″ – 12″ (25 – 30 cm) |
| M | 20 – 35 lbs (9 – 16 kg) | 12″ – 14″ (30 – 35 cm) | 20″ – 24″ (50 – 60 cm) | 12″ – 16″ (30 – 40 cm) |
| L | 35 – 55 lbs (16 – 25 kg) | 14″ – 16″ (35 – 40 cm) | 24″ – 28″ (60 – 71 cm) | 16″ – 20″ (40 – 51 cm) |
| XL | 55 – 75 lbs (25 – 34 kg) | 16″ – 18″ (40 – 46 cm) | 28″ – 34″ (71 – 86 cm) | 20″ – 24″ (51 – 61 cm) |
| XXL | 75 – 100 lbs (34 – 45 kg) | 18″ – 22″ (46 – 56 cm) | 34″ – 40″ (86 – 101 cm) | 24″ – 28″ (61 – 71 cm) |
| XXXL | 100+ lbs (45+ kg) | 22″ – 26″ (56 – 66 cm) | 40″ – 45″+ (101 – 115+ cm) | 28″ – 36″ (71 – 91 cm) |
Extra Small (XS) Sweaters
Perfect for tiny breeds like Chihuahuas or Yorkies. These sweaters are designed to fit snugly without limiting movement. Look for soft, stretchy materials that provide warmth without bulk.
Small (S) Sweaters
Ideal for breeds like Pomeranians or Toy Poodles. The sweater should cover the back properly and shouldn’t affect leg movement. Lightweight materials are often best for these active little dogs.
Medium (M) Sweaters
Suitable for Beagles or Cocker Spaniels. These dogs often have broader chests, so focus on chest girth when selecting a size. A good fit gives comfort during walks and playtime.
Large (L) Sweaters
Designed for breeds like Bulldogs or Boxers. These sweaters should accommodate a wider chest and shorter back length. Look for designs that allow easy movement and don’t restrict the shoulders.
Extra Large (XL) Sweaters
Great for breeds like Golden Retrievers or Labradors. These sweaters should offer enough coverage without being too tight. Materials that provide warmth while allowing breathability are perfect.
XX-Large and Custom Sweaters
For larger breeds like Great Danes or Mastiffs, finding the right fit can be a bit difficult. Custom sweaters or brands that offer extended sizes are often the best choice.
You can check paw dog sweaters that are designed with various breeds in mind. Their sizing typically considers chest girth and back length. For example, a Medium size might fit a dog with a chest girth of 16–20 inches and a back length of 12–14 inches.
Key Measurements for Sweater Fit
Chest Girth
Measure around the widest part of your dog’s chest, just behind the front legs. This is the most important measurement for sweater fit.
Neck Circumference
Measure around the base of your dog’s neck where a collar would sit. The sweater shouldn’t be too tight in this area to prevent discomfort.
Back Length
Measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail. This ensures the sweater covers the back adequately without being too long.
How to Measure Your Dog Properly
- Use a soft measuring tape: This allows for accurate measurements without causing discomfort.
- You should measure your dog in standing position: This ensures the measurements reflect your dog’s actual size during movement.
- Double-check measurements: It’s always good to measure twice to ensure accuracy.
- Understand the brand’s size chart: Sizes can vary between brands.
Different Sweater Styles and Their Fit
Different styles fit differently, even if they’re labeled the same size. Some sweaters have turtlenecks, others come with sleeves, and a few are more like vests. Each one can feel and fit differently on your dog.
If your dog doesn’t like things over their head, a zip-up or button-up style might work better. Sleeved sweaters give extra warmth but can feel snug on chunkier legs. Shorter or vest-style sweaters are often better for dogs who like freedom to move.
Just like with our clothes, try to pick a style that suits your dog’s shape, size, and how they move. And always check the size chart even if the same brand can vary between styles.
Sweater Material and Sizing Impact
The material of a dog sweater can affect the way it fits. Sweaters made from thick wool or heavy knits tend to feel tighter and have less stretch. On the other hand, stretchy cotton blends or fleece can be more forgiving and comfortable.
When checking dog sweater size in cm or checking dog sweater size in inches, keep in mind that bulky fabrics may need a slightly looser fit, while flexible materials can sit closer to the body. Also, if your dog wears the sweater over a harness or collar, factor that in before choosing a size.
If you’re unsure, size up for heavier fabrics. It’s better to have a little extra room than for your pup to feel squeezed.
Fit Issues and Adjustments
If your dog’s sweater looks cute but keeps slipping off, twisting, or causing them to walk funny, it’s probably not the right fit. Common fit issues include:
- The neck being too tight
- Being snug and pulling under the arms
- The sweater sliding sideways or bunching up
To fix minor fit issues, you can:
- Adjust the hem with basic sewing
- Add Velcro or snaps for a tighter closure
- Look for stretchy material that molds better to your dog’s body
Every dog is shaped differently, so it might take a few tries to find the right fit, but it’s worth it for your pup’s comfort.
Also read: Dog Diaper Sizes Guide
FAQs
How do I know what size sweater my dog needs?
Start by measuring your dog’s chest girth, neck, and back length. Then match those measurements with the brand’s size chart. You can also use your dog’s weight to get a rough idea, but actual measurements in inches or cm will give you the best fit.
Do small breeds always wear extra small sweaters?
Not always. While many small breeds fit into XS, some are longer or have wider chests than others. A Chihuahua and a Pomeranian may weigh the same but need different fits. Use the chart and check dog sweater size by weight, but also measure your dog to be sure.
What’s the difference between sweater sizes in inches and cm?
It’s just a different unit of measurement. Dog sweater size in inches is more common in the U.S., while dog sweater size in cm is more standard in other countries.
My dog is between two sizes, what should I do?
If your dog is right in between sizes, it’s usually safer to size up. A slightly loose sweater is better than one that’s too tight. Just make sure it’s not so big that your dog trips over it or gets tangled.
How tight should a dog sweater fit?
A good sweater should be snug enough to stay in place but not so tight that it rubs or restricts movement. Your dog should be able to walk, sit, and lie down easily. Always check the sweater around the neck, chest, and under the arms for comfort.