Two measurements matter: the neck, at its base where a collar rests, and the chest, just behind the front legs at the widest point of the ribcage. Measure your dog standing, calm, with a soft tape, without pulling tight. A few minutes are enough — ideally after a walk, when your companion is relaxed.
For the neck, place the tape at the base of the neck, where a collar naturally sits, and note the measurement in centimetres. For the chest, wrap the tape around the widest point of the ribcage, just behind the front legs: the tape should follow the body without pressing into it. Write both numbers down before consulting the chart.
“A well-fitted harness is one your dog forgets.”
The size guide then points you to a size: XS fits a chest of 38 to 48 cm, S 46 to 58 cm, M 56 to 70 cm, L 68 to 84 cm and XL 82 to 102 cm. If your dog falls between two sizes, choose the larger one: the adjustment points then allow a precise fit — four on L'Aplomb, two on L'Épure.
Once the harness is on, the two-finger test tells you almost everything: you should be able to slide two fingers flat between the harness and your dog's body. A harness that is too tight leaves marks on the coat, rubs under the legs or restricts the stride. A harness that is too loose rotates, slides to the side, or lets a determined dog back out of it.
For a thick or curly coat, measure under the fur and measure again after grooming. For a growing puppy, expect to adjust the fit regularly and to re-measure every few weeks — the chest of a young dog changes quickly.
A harness that fits well works with your dog's movement: the chest panel rests flat, the straps clear the shoulders and nothing pulls at the neck. That is what these two simple measurements protect.
The measurements in the size guide are preliminary and will be confirmed before orders open. And if the size still isn't right, your first size exchange is complimentary. If in doubt, write to us and we will help you choose.
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