Stormguard Dog Coats: How to Measure for a Winter Fit
By Real Pet Store | Published: 2026-11-04
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to measure your dog for an Ancol Stormguard coat, check the size chart, and get a waterproof fit that stays put on winter walks.
Quick answer
Measure your dog's back length from the base of the neck to the tail, then match that number to the Ancol Stormguard size chart. Check the chest strap adjustment before you buy, because the coat's waterproof fit depends on a snug chest and a back length that doesn't trip your dog.
Why back length alone isn't enough for a waterproof fit
A coat that's the right length but too loose around the chest will let rain in and shift on walks. The Ancol Stormguard has a chest protector strap, so you need to measure both the back and the chest girth to choose a size that stays in place.
Puppies and dogs with thick winter coats can be between sizes. If your measurement falls at the top of a size range, size up only if the chest strap can be tightened enough to stop gaps.
When to remeasure instead of guessing
Young dogs and dogs that have recently been clipped or gained weight can change size within a season. Remeasure before buying a second coat rather than assuming the last size still fits.
The Ancol Stormguard comes in seven sizes, but the size chart is the only reliable guide. If your dog is between two sizes and the chest strap can't be adjusted enough, choose the size that matches the back length and accept a slightly roomier chest.
Steps to measure for an Ancol Stormguard coat
- Measure back length: Stand your dog on a flat surface and measure from the base of the neck (where the collar sits) to the base of the tail. Keep the tape flat along the spine. Common mistake: measuring to the tail tip instead of the base, which gives a coat that's too long. Write the number down in centimetres or inches, but use the same unit as the size chart.
- Measure chest girth: Wrap the tape around the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs. Keep it snug but not tight, and record the measurement. Checkpoint: the tape should sit flat without compressing the coat. If your dog is between sizes, the chest strap adjustment decides whether you can size up or down.
- Check the size chart and chest strap range: Compare both measurements to the Ancol Stormguard size chart. Choose the size that matches the back length and whose chest range includes your dog's girth. Common mistake: picking a size based only on weight or breed. A coat that fits the back but not the chest will gap or restrict movement.
- Do a fit check with the coat on: Fasten the coat and adjust the chest protector strap so it sits comfortably behind the front legs. Check that the back hem doesn't cover the tail and that your dog can walk, sit, and squat without the coat pulling. Checkpoint: you should be able to slide two fingers under the chest strap. If the coat shifts sideways or the chest strap loosens on a walk, try a different size.
Product facts
- Ancol Dog Puppy Coats Stormguard Terracotta 7 Sizes: Ancol Dog Puppy Coats Stormguard Terracotta comes in 7 sizes and has a fleece lining, waterproof surface, and chest protector strap. The fleece adds warmth for cold walks, while the chest strap is the main adjustment point for a secure fit.
Ancol Dog Puppy Coats Stormguard Terracotta 7 Sizes
