How to Measure Your Whippet or Greyhound for a Perfect Fit

If your dog’s coat slips, twists, or doesn’t cover properly, it’s not the clothing — it’s usually the measuring.

Whippets, greyhounds and Italian greyhounds have a very specific body shape. Standard dog sizing doesn’t account for deep chests, narrow waists, and curved backs, which is why so many owners struggle to get a good fit.

Getting the measurements right is what makes the difference between clothing that works… and clothing that gets left in the drawer.

Why Measuring Matters for Sighthounds

Sighthounds feel the cold more than most breeds.

With very little body fat and short coats, they lose heat quickly — especially when resting or sleeping. If clothing doesn’t fit properly, it won’t stay in place or provide the warmth your dog actually needs.

A correct fit means:

• full coverage across the back and hindquarters
• clothing that stays secure when moving
• consistent warmth without restriction

The Most Common Measuring Mistakes

Before measuring, it helps to understand where most people go wrong:

• measuring coats only to the tail instead of past it
• measuring pyjamas too long
• placing the tape too high on the neck
• guessing size instead of measuring

These small mistakes are the main reason clothing doesn’t fit properly.

The 3 Measurements You Need

1. Back Length

This is the most important measurement.

For coats:
Measure from the base of the neck and continue past the tail by a few inches.
This ensures proper coverage and warmth.

For jumpers and pyjamas:
Measure from the base of the neck to the base of the tail only.

Measuring too long here can cause garments — especially 4-leg pyjamas — to slip or not stay on correctly.

2. Chest Circumference

Measure around the deepest part of the chest, just behind the front legs.

This ensures the garment fits comfortably without being too tight or restrictive.

3. Neck Circumference

Measure around the base of the neck, where a collar would naturally sit.

On a whippet or greyhound, this sits slightly lower than on other breeds due to their shape.

Signs the Fit Is Wrong

Even if the size seems right, your dog’s behaviour will tell you if it isn’t.

Look for:

• clothing twisting or slipping to one side
• back legs slipping out of pyjamas
• your dog trying to shake or remove it
• restless behaviour when wearing it

These are signs the measurements or fit need adjusting.

What to Do Next

Once you have accurate measurements, choosing the right clothing becomes simple.

For outdoor protection and colder weather:
Shop Whippet Coats
https://thewhippetcoats.com/product-category/coats/

For everyday warmth and layering:
Shop Whippet Jumpers
https://thewhippetcoats.com/product-category/whippet-greyhound-jumpers/

For overnight warmth and colder homes:
Shop Whippet Pyjamas
https://thewhippetcoats.com/product-category/whippet-greyhound-pyjamas/

Choosing the right option depends on your dog’s environment and how sensitive they are to the cold.

Temperature Matters More Than You Think

Even if your home feels warm, temperatures often drop overnight.

As a general guide:

• above 15°C – most dogs are comfortable
• 10–15°C – some may start to feel cold
• below 10°C – many will need extra warmth

This is where properly fitted jumpers or pyjamas can make a noticeable difference.

Final Thoughts

Measuring your whippet or greyhound correctly is the most important step in getting clothing that actually works.

It ensures:

• better comfort
• better fit
• reliable warmth

Take a few minutes to measure properly, and you’ll avoid the frustration of clothing that doesn’t fit or stay in place.

For sighthounds, fit isn’t just about size — it’s about understanding their shape.