Episode 18 - Dog Coat Fit Problems - Measure Correctly + Fix Mistakes
Episode Air Date: September 18, 2025
Runtime: 11:38
✨ Episode Summary
Making dog wear patterns isn’t always smooth sailing — sometimes one tiny mistake in your measuring tape throws everything off. That’s why I dedicated this episode of Thank Dog We Made It to covering the four most important dog coat measurements and how to troubleshoot when your coat just doesn’t fit right. This post is part of my ongoing podcast + blog series where I share practical tips and behind-the-scenes lessons on designing, grading, and marketing dog wear patterns.
In this episode, I go step-by-step through the four key measurements you need for a well-fitting dog coat:
1) Neck circumference –
measured where the collar sits, with two fingers under the tape for comfort.
2) Chest circumference –
taken at the widest point of your dog’s chest.
3) Back length –
from where the collar sits down to the base of the tail.
4) Neck to withers –
one of the most critical measurements, guiding where your belly band or armholes should start.
I also share tips for troubleshooting when things don’t look right:
- Coats pinching under the arms
- Jackets slipping forward or riding up
- Collars gaping at the neck
- Coats cutting too short at the back
Plus, I explain why making a quick test version in scrap fabric (muslin) can save you headaches before working with your final fabric. And, if you’re sewing for a male dog, I share a quick adjustment to avoid bathroom mishaps.
🕒 Episode Highlights
Here are a few key moments from this episode:
00:00 – Intro + viewer questions
00:30 – Tools you need (soft measuring tape)
01:00 – The 4 key measurements explained
05:40 – Troubleshooting: pinching under the arms
06:20 – Troubleshooting: coat slipping forward or back
07:40 – Why to test fit with scrap fabric first
09:30 – Special note for male dogs
10:20 – Wrap-up + Q&A invite
📥 Ready to Take the Next Step?
Download the free Cozy Coat Pattern Pack and make your first dog coat without second guessing. It includes a printable pattern, a video tutorial, a step-by-step guide, and a measuring workbook to help you get it right the first time.
Resource Links Mentioned
🐾 Free Workbook: Download the 4-Step Measuring Workbook
🐾 Free Pattern: Grab the Cozy Coat Pattern Package + step-by-step videos
📺 YouTube Demo: Watchit live instead of listening
💬 Got Questions or Feedback?
If something in today’s episode resonated with you—or brought up a question you’ve been holding—I’d love to hear from you.
DM me anytime over on Instagram @thankdogwemadeit, or come join the conversation inside the Creative Circle. This is exactly the kind of stuff we talk about together.
You can also comment, rate, or follow the podcast here:
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You don’t have to do this alone—and you’re definitely not the only one feeling it.
