How to choose between two sizes of dog clothes: Smaller size or larger size?

Oct 1, 2026

When you measure your dog's size and check the dog clothing size chart,

"It looks like it could fit in size S, but size M would probably be fine too."

"My waist is a size S, but the length is a size M."

Have you ever been torn between two sizes like that?

When it comes to dog clothes, not all measurements necessarily correspond perfectly to a single size.

Even with the same dog,

- The waist size is S
- The length is M size

This is not uncommon.

So, in that situation, which should you choose, the smaller one or the larger one?

In this article, the dog clothing brand CanNana provides a clear explanation of the points to check when you are unsure about which of the two sizes to choose.

If you're unsure between two sizes of dog clothes, first check the "chest circumference."

The first thing to check when choosing the right size for dog clothes is the chest circumference.

The girth is the measurement taken around the widest part of the chest, near the base of the front legs.

When a dog walks or runs, its chest area moves.

Therefore,

"The length is just right, but it's quite tight around the waist."

You should probably avoid that size.

Conversely, if the waist is too large,

- Clothes spin
- Front paws go inside clothing
- It becomes disheveled.

These are some examples.

Basically, the first thing to do is to find a size that fits comfortably around the torso.

"When in doubt, choose the larger size" isn't always the right answer.

When you're unsure about the size of dog clothes,

"The bigger the better, so let's go with the bigger one."

Some people might think that way.

However, when it comes to dog clothes, a larger size isn't always the right choice.

Clothes that are too big,

- Shoulder slips
- My foot slipped out
Stepping on the hem
- Clothes rotate to the side
- The waistline of the dress is off.

These factors can affect comfort and silhouette.

Especially with dog clothes that have design elements like one-pieces, frills, and ribbons, such as CanNana, if the size is too large, the original silhouette may not be beautifully displayed.

Instead of choosing the larger one,

"Choose the dog clothes based on their material, design, and suitability for your dog's body type."

That is important.

Five points to consider when you're unsure between two sizes

If you still can't decide after looking at the size chart, try checking the following five points.

1. Waist circumference

First, let's check the most important part: the waist.

for example,

My dog's girth: 40cm

Size S approximate: 36-40cm
Size M guideline: 40-44cm

Sometimes, you might find yourself right on the borderline, as in this example.

In this case, we don't just decide based on the numbers; we also check the elasticity and design, which will be explained next.

2. Fabric stretchability

When deciding between two sizes, a very important factor is "how much the fabric stretches."

Dog clothes include,

• Stretchy fabric
- Slightly stretchy fabric
- Fabric that hardly stretches

There is.

For materials that stretch well, such as ribbed knits or cut-and-sew items, even the smaller size may fit the body easily.

On the other hand, when using materials with little stretch, such as fabric or tweed, choosing a size that is too tight can become uncomfortable.

3. Hair volume

For dogs with a lot of fur, such as Toy Poodles, Bichon Frises, and Pomeranians, we also consider the volume of their hair.

Even if your dog's body is size S, the fluffy fur may allow it to look better in size M.

especially,

Before trimming
- Winter coat season
- Keeping the hair long

Be careful in that case.

Conversely, immediately after grooming, the same dog may feel that its dog clothes are looser.

4. Length

If the chest circumference seems to be fine with either size, check the length.

especially,

·one piece
・court
Rompers
Designed for Dachshunds

In such cases, the length of the garment is important.

If you choose a smaller size, the waist may fit perfectly, but the length may be too short.

Conversely, if you choose a larger size, the hem might be too long or get caught on the tail.

Make your decision based on your dog's body shape and the style of the dog clothing.

If the length is a little short, you can adjust it by layering.

While a smaller size fits better around the torso,

"The length is just a little short."

That can also be the case.

In that case, you don't necessarily need to choose a larger size to match the length.

CanNana offers a range of dog clothing options that can be coordinated to match tops and bottoms.Tulle frill skirtor1189 Alice's Tulle Frill SkirtofIt's on sale now.

By allowing tulle ruffles to peek out from the hem of tops and dresses, you can cover the short length while also adjusting the overall length.

for example,

- The S size fits best around the torso.
- The M size is too loose around the torso.
However, the S size is a little too short in length.

In that case,

Size S + Tulle Frill Skirt

That's one way to coordinate your outfit.

By adjusting the length through layering instead of forcing a larger size, you can enjoy both a fit that suits your dog's body and a stylish look.

This is a recommended approach especially for dogs with a long body shape or those whose "length tends to be short when adjusted to the girth."

5. Dog clothing designs

Even with the same size, the fit can vary greatly depending on the design.

Dog clothes with sleeves

If the garment has sleeves, if they are too large, the front legs may easily get caught inside the sleeves.

Sleeveless dog clothes

Sleeveless designs are relatively easy to adjust in size, but if the torso is too large, the shoulders are more likely to slip.

one piece

One-piece dresses are not only about the waist,

・Waist position
Skirt length
・Hem position

Let's check that as well.

pullover type

For dog clothes that are put on by pulling them over the head, the neck area and the elasticity of the fabric are also important.

Front opening type

Button and hook-and-loop types that open at the front are relatively easy to put on and take off, but if the waist is too tight, it can become difficult to fasten.

A case that makes it easy to choose a small size

In the following cases, the smaller size may be a better fit:

• The fabric has sufficient stretch.
My dog is slender
・Thin hair
- The smaller size is just right in terms of length.
- The larger size has a lot of extra room around the torso.
- The length is slightly shorter, but you can adjust the length with a tulle ruffle skirt or similar.

however,

"It's okay if it's a little small because it will grow."

With that in mind, avoid choosing a size that is clearly too small in the torso.

Cases that make it easy to choose a larger size

On the other hand, in the following cases, the larger size may be a better fit.

- The fabric has almost no stretch.
He has a broad chest.
• A lot of hair
- The smaller size is just barely within the upper limit for the waist circumference.
I plan to wear layers of clothing.
- Smaller sizes are too short.

Especially with winter dog clothes, since they are sometimes worn over innerwear, you should also consider whether or not to layer them.

What do you think about "being right at the upper limit of the size chart"?

for example,

Size S: Chest circumference 34-40cm
My dog: Chest circumference 40cm

In that case,

"It's on the list, so S is fine."

That's what one might think.

However, if it's right at the upper limit,

• Fabric stretchability
Hair volume
·chest
• How to attach and detach

We recommend checking until then.

Dog clothes with little stretch may feel tight when worn by dogs whose chest circumference is exactly at the upper limit of the size range.

On the other hand, if the material is very stretchy, the same size may be easier to wear.

In other words,

Look not only at the numbers in the size chart, but also at the features of the dog clothing.

That is important.

What do you do if your waist size is S but your length is M?

This is a very common issue when choosing dog clothes.

In this case, we first consider the waist circumference as the basis.

for example,

- The S size fits nicely around the torso.
- The M size is quite loose around the torso.
However, the length is a little short in size S.

In that case.

If the difference in length is slight, choose size S, CanNana1130 Tulle Frill Skirtor1189 Alice's Tulle Frill SkirtAnother method is to layer clothes to cover the length.

By showing the tulle frill from the hem, you can naturally add length to the outfit while also making the coordination look cute.

on the other hand,

The length is extremely short in size S.

In that case, consider a medium size or a different design.

especially,

Dog breeds with long bodies
Dachshund
- Toy poodle with a long body

For example,

"Is the length a little too short?"

"Is it clearly not enough?"

The key is to change your judgment based on that.

What do you do if the length is S but the waist is M?

In this case, we would generally prioritize the waist measurement and consider a size M.

If the length is only slightly long, you might still be able to wear it, but if it's too tight around the waist,

・Difficult to move
・Difficult to put on
- Tightens the body

This could be the cause.

However, if choosing size M results in an extremely long length, consider selecting a product with a different design or size options.

If you're unsure, don't just choose based on "the size you usually wear."

I used to wear a size S in CanNana,

"S is fine this time too."

Not necessarily.

Dog clothes vary depending on the product.

·material
• Flexibility
·silhouette
• Sleeve shape
• Neckline shape

These are some of the differences.

Additionally, your dog's own body shape may have changed.

When buying new dog clothes, we recommend checking the size chart and product description each time.

We also refer to the size of the model dog.

The product page features a model dog.

Dog breed
·body weight
・Neck circumference
·girth
・ Length
• Wearing size

If such information is included, it will be helpful.

however,

"My child is also 3kg, so they're the same size."

Instead of judging solely by weight,

Let's compare the chest circumference and back length of your dog with that of a model dog.

A quick check when you're unsure between two sizes

If you're unsure, try thinking in the following order.

① Which size fits better around the torso?

↓

② Does the fabric stretch? Or not?

↓

③ Do you have a lot of hair? Or a little?

↓

④ Which length looks more natural?

↓

⑤ If the length is just a little short, can it be adjusted by layering?

↓

⑥ Are there any issues with the design, such as the sleeves or skirt?

Checking in this order will make it easier to determine the size.

Frequently asked questions when choosing between two sizes

Q. If I'm unsure whether to choose S or M, is it safer to choose M?

Size M isn't always the best choice.

If the clothes are too big, they may shift or the front legs may slip out.

Check the waist circumference, stretchability, and length before making a decision.

Q. What if the waist size is right, but the length is a little too short?

If the length is only slightly short, you may not need to force yourself to choose a size larger.

CanNanaTulle frill skirtBy layering these items, you can add length to the hem and adjust the overall length.

It's also a good idea to choose a size that fits your waist and then adjust the balance by layering clothes.

Q. Is it cuter to wear clothes that fit snugly?

It depends on the design of the dog clothes.

A top that fits the body can sometimes create a beautiful silhouette, but for items like dresses, having a moderate amount of looseness can make them look better.

It's not just about how it looks; it's also important that your dog can move around comfortably.

Q. If the puppy is still growing, should I choose a larger size?

We do not recommend buying dog clothes that are unnecessarily large.

Your feet might slip out, or you might trip over the hem.

While using a size that fits your current body as a base, consider buying replacements as your child grows.

Q. If I have a lot of hair, will I necessarily need a larger size?

Not necessarily.

It depends on the stretchiness and design of the dog clothes.

Don't judge solely by the amount of fur; also check the body circumference and length.

Q. What should I do if I absolutely cannot decide?

If you're unsure about the size chart, it's best to consult with the shop.

At that time,

Dog breed
·body weight
・Neck circumference
·girth
・ Length
Hair volume
I'm unsure which size to choose.

Providing this information will make it easier for others to discuss the matter with you.

If you're unsure between two sizes, try deciding based on the "number + characteristics of the dog clothing."

Choosing the right size for dog clothes is

"Based on these numbers, it must be this size."

It's not something that can be decided so simply.

Especially if you're unsure between two sizes,

·girth
• Flexibility
Hair volume
・ Length
Dog clothing design

It's important to consider all of these factors together.

moreover,

The waist fits, but the length is a little too short.

In that case, you can also adjust the length by using a tulle frill skirt or similar item.

Instead of forcibly increasing the size,

"Choose the right size for your dog, and then use coordinating accessories to fill in any gaps."

This is one way of thinking when choosing dog clothes.

To find the perfect outfit

At CanNana, we not only want you to enjoy cute designs,

"The dog should be comfortable wearing it."

I also believe that is important.

If you're unsure between two sizes, such as S and M, or M and L,

"Just go with the bigger one."

Instead,

Compare your dog's body type with the features of the dog clothing.

If the waist fits perfectly but the length is a bit short, layering with items like a tulle ruffle skirt can also be an option.

Just by checking a little more carefully,

"I made a mistake in choosing the size."

This can be reduced.

Find the perfect size for your beloved dog and let them enjoy wearing their favorite dog clothes even more.

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