Precision K9 Measurement Protocol

How to measure your dog

Building mission-critical tactical equipment requires absolute precision. We engineer our collars, harnesses, and vests using a strict tailor's fit. We calculate all necessary operational tolerances during manufacturing based on your exact, skin-tight measurements.

Small / Medium Breed

Shown: Working Cocker Spaniel & Beagle

Large Breed

Shown: German Shepherd

1

High Neck

Collar Placement
How to measure

Wrap the measuring tape around the upper portion of the neck, directly behind the ears and under the jawline.

Purpose

Ensures tactical collars, agitation collars, and secondary restraint loops sit securely without slipping over the head or impeding breathing.

2

Low Neck & Shoulders

Harness Base
How to measure

Measure around the base of the neck where it transitions into the shoulder blades and meets the top of the prosternum (breastbone) in front.

Purpose

Sets the front Y-strap opening for harnesses, ensuring full, unrestricted shoulder flexion and preventing pressure on the trachea.

3

Sternum Length

Chest Plate / Skid Plate
How to measure

Measure along the centerline of the chest underside, starting at the prosternum (the prominent bony point at the front of the chest) and ending at the xiphoid process (the end of the sternum bone where the rib cage stops).

Purpose

Crucial for hoisting, rappelling, and fast-roping vests. This defines the maximum rigid skid-plate length to ensure load dispersion stays entirely on the skeletal frame and off soft abdominal tissue.

4

Sternum Bridge

Front Girth Underbelly Distance
How to measure

Measure along the underside from the prosternum, between the front legs, to the exact line where the front girth strap sits (directly behind the elbows).

Purpose

Aligns the bottom chest strap to keep the main girth straps properly positioned without cutting into the armpits.

5

Front Girth

Primary Chest
How to measure

Wrap the tape completely around the deepest part of the rib cage, immediately behind the front legs and elbows.

Purpose

Serves as the primary anchor point for tactical harnesses, duty vests, and load-bearing equipment.

6

Rear Girth

Rib Support / Secondary Girth
How to measure

Measure the circumference around the rib cage behind the front girth. The placement must remain entirely on the floating ribs and before the xiphoid process ends.

Purpose

Provides dual-point stability for insertion and hoist vests. Keeping this on the rib structure prevents dangerous pressure on soft internal organs.

7

Back Length

Topline
How to measure

Measure along the spine from the base of the neck (the withers / between the shoulder blades) straight back to the base of the tail.

Purpose

Determines the total top deck coverage, spine clearance, and MOLLE/Velcro panel real estate.

How to Measure Your K9

1

Neck Circumference

Measure around the middle of the neck where the collar naturally sits. Keep two fingers between the tape and neck for proper clearance.

2

Chest Girth

Measure the widest part of the ribcage, typically just behind the front legs. Keep tape snug but not tight against the fur.

3

Back Length

Measure from the base of the neck (where the collar sits) to the base of the tail, keeping the tape flat along the back.

Not Sure About Your Size?

Contact us with your dog's measurements and we'll recommend the perfect fit.

Contact Us