A brace that is the wrong size will slide down, twist, or rub, and it will end up in a drawer. Three measurements taken properly prevent most of that. Set aside a few minutes, a soft tape measure and some treats.
Before you start
- Measure standing. A leg carrying weight has a different shape from a leg that is relaxed. Ask your dog to stand on a flat, non-slip floor.
- Get a helper. One person keeps the dog steady and happy. The other measures.
- No soft tape? Wrap a piece of string around the leg, pinch where it meets, and lay it against a ruler.
The three measurements
A. Above the hock. Find the hock, the backward-pointing joint on the lower back leg. Wrap the tape around the leg about 3 to 4 inches above it. The tape should lie flat against the coat without squeezing.
B. Below the hock. Wrap the tape around the leg about 3 to 4 inches below the joint.
C. Height. Measure the vertical distance between where you took A and where you took B. This tells you how much leg the brace has to cover, and whether the brace height for a size will fit.
Write all three down with the unit, inches or centimetres. Then measure the other back leg. If they differ, use the larger numbers.
Mistakes that cause bad fits
Going by weight or breed. Two dogs of the same weight can have very different lower legs. Charts based on weight are a rough guess at best.
Pulling the tape tight. Compressing the fur gives a smaller number and leads to a brace that pinches.
Measuring the wrong joint. The knee is high on the leg near the body. The hock is lower. If you are not sure which is which, our article on hock and knee braces explains.
Measuring a wriggling dog. If the number changes every time, take three readings and use the middle one.
Between sizes
If your numbers fall between two sizes, think about leg shape. A thick, muscular leg usually suits the larger size. A slim leg usually suits the smaller size with the straps set looser. Extension straps, where included, add reach on a thicker leg.
You can also send us the three numbers through the support form and we will help you choose.
Checking the fit once it is on
- The brace covers the hock and stays there after a short walk.
- One finger slides under the top and bottom edges.
- Your dog walks normally on the leg.
- After removing it, the skin is not red, swollen or rubbed.
If any of these fail, adjust the straps first. If it still does not sit right, the size is probably wrong.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice.