How to Measure Your Whippet for a Coat
When it comes to keeping your Whippet warm and cosy during chilly weather, a well-fitted coat is essential. Due to their slender build and thin fur, Whippets are particularly susceptible to the cold, making it all the more important to choose a coat that fits them perfectly. To help you get the right measurements, we've put together this straightforward guide. Follow these steps to ensure your Whippet’s coat provides maximum comfort and warmth.
Why Proper Measurements Matter
Whippets have a unique body shape: a deep chest, slim waist, and long neck. A poorly fitted coat can restrict movement, cause discomfort, or fail to provide adequate coverage. Accurate measurements will help you find a coat that fits well, stays in place, and allows your Whippet to move freely.
What You’ll Need
- A soft measuring tape: Flexible enough to wrap around your dog’s body.
- A notepad and pen: To jot down the measurements.
- Treats: To keep your Whippet calm and cooperative.
Step 1: Measure the Length
Start by measuring your Whippet’s length. Place the tape measure at the base of the neck, where it meets the shoulders, and extend it along the spine to the base of the tail. This measurement determines the length of the coat and makes sure it covers your dog’s back without being too long.
Step 2: Measure the Chest
Next, measure the circumference of your Whippet’s chest, the broadest part of their body. This is usually right behind the front legs. Wrap the tape measure around the chest, ensuring it’s snug but not tight, and note down the measurement. The chest measurement is crucial as it affects how comfortably the coat will fit around your dog’s body.
Step 3: Measure the Neck
The neck measurement is taken where your Whippet’s collar would naturally sit, just below the base of the skull. Wrap the tape around the neck, making sure it's not too loose or too tight. This measurement make sure that the coat sits comfortably without slipping off or choking your dog.
Step 4: Measure the Waist
Measure the narrowest part of your Whippet’s body, typically located between the ribs and hips. This is the waist measurement and is important for ensuring the coat isn’t too loose around the midsection, which could cause it to flap in the wind.
Step 5: Consider the Leg Openings
While many Whippet coats come with standard leg openings, some allow for adjustable fittings. Measure the circumference of your Whippet’s upper leg where it meets the body to ensure the openings are not too tight or too loose.
Tips for Accurate Measuring
- Measure twice: Just to be sure, take each measurement twice to confirm accuracy.
- Keep your Whippet standing: Ensure your dog is standing upright and still for the most accurate measurements.
- Check the coat size guide: Different brands may have slightly different sizing charts, so always compare your measurements with the brand’s specific guide.
Once you have all the necessary measurements, you’re ready to choose the perfect coat for your Whippet. Remember, a well-fitted coat not only keeps your dog warm but also makes sure they remain comfortable and happy during their walks, no matter how cold it gets outside. With the right coat, your Whippet will be stylishly snug and ready to take on any weather!
