How to Measure Your Dog
To order Vartoviy K9 gear to fit your dog exactly, you only need to take three measurements with a soft tailor's tape: chest girth right behind the front legs (the widest point), neck girth at the base, and back length from the withers to the base of the tail. Measure on a calm dog standing squarely on all four legs; apply the tape snugly but don't tighten it — a finger should pass freely between the body and the tape. Write down all values in centimeters and add the dog's weight. We sew body armor individually to your measurements (UHMWPE to DSTU 8782:2018, Class 1), while tactical and rescue harnesses are matched to the S–XL size chart. Send the finished figures to us by messenger or by phone +38 (067) 465-68-64 — we'll suggest the size and place the order with free Nova Poshta delivery across Ukraine.
Which three measurements you need
All Vartoviy K9 products are calculated from three base measurements. That is enough to match a ready harness or sew body armor to your dog's size.
| Measurement | How to take it | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Chest girth | Wrap the tape around the torso right behind the front legs — at the widest point of the chest. | The main sizing measurement: it determines the fit of the armor and harness. |
| Neck girth | Measure the neck at the base, where the collar usually sits. | Needed for the chest part of the harness and the optional neck protection. |
| Back length | From the withers (the highest point between the shoulder blades) to the base of the tail, in a straight line. | Determines the length of the armor panel and the body of the gear. |
Tips for accurate measurements
- Measure on a calm dog standing squarely on all four legs — not sitting or lying down.
- Use a soft tailor's tape. If you don't have one, take a cord or string and then check it against a ruler.
- Apply the tape snugly to the body but don't tighten it: a finger should pass freely between the tape and the coat.
- Record values in centimeters and be sure to add the dog's weight in kilograms.
- If possible, repeat each measurement twice — that rules out error.
Gear sizes by measurements
Body armor is sewn individually to your figures: a UHMWPE panel to DSTU 8782:2018 (Class 1), modular design (chest, back with sides, belly and optionally the neck), weight 2.4–2.8 kg. The tactical and rescue harnesses have a ready size chart, so for them the key is to take chest girth and weight correctly.
| Product | Sizes | Weight guide |
|---|---|---|
| Tactical harness | S–XL | 18–60 kg |
| Rescue harness | 4 sizes | 12–65 kg |
| K9 body armor | Custom-fit | To your measurements |
How to send us the measurements
Take the three measurements, write them in centimeters, add the dog's weight and breed — and send them to us in any convenient way:
- By phone or messenger: +38 (067) 465-68-64.
- Via the form on the contacts page.
- Together with the order on the page of the product you need in the protection section.
We'll check the figures, suggest the size and confirm the tailoring parameters. Read more about choosing protection in the guide how to measure a dog for body armor.
FAQ
How many measurements are needed to order?
Three are enough: chest girth behind the front legs, neck girth, and back length from the withers to the base of the tail. Also state the dog's weight.
Can I get by with just the dog's weight?
For a preliminary S–XL harness match, weight is roughly enough, but for a precise fit and especially to sew body armor to size, all three measurements in centimeters are required.
How do I know the tape isn't too tight?
One finger should pass freely between the tape and the dog's body. If a finger won't fit, the tape is too tight and the product will chafe.
Is body armor made to size or in ready sizes?
Vartoviy K9 body armor is sewn individually to your measurements. It is a modular product with a UHMWPE panel to DSTU 8782:2018 (Class 1), weighing 2.4–2.8 kg.
What if I don't have a tailor's tape?
Use a cord or string: wrap it around the spot you need, mark the length, and then measure it with an ordinary ruler or tape measure.
Is delivery free after ordering?
Yes, delivery by Nova Poshta across Ukraine is free. The product carries a 12-month warranty, and the armor panel — 3 years. See the terms on the delivery page.