The three measurements that matter
- Neck. Where the collar normally sits. Slide two fingers under the tape — that's the slack a costume neckline needs.
- Chest girth. Wrap the tape around the deepest part of the ribcage, just behind the front legs. This is the number that decides the size on almost every pet costume.
- Back length. From the base of the neck (where the collar sits) to the base of the tail. Anything that ends past the tail base will bunch when they sit.
| Measurement | Where to measure | Common mistake |
|---|---|---|
| Neck | Collar line, two fingers of slack | Measuring the collar itself instead of the neck |
| Chest girth | Widest point behind front legs | Measuring the belly (narrower) — costume comes out tight |
| Back length | Base of neck to base of tail | Starting at the top of the head |
Why weight charts fail
A 25-lb French Bulldog and a 25-lb Beagle are different shapes: one is barrel-chested and short-backed, the other is narrow and long. Weight-only charts are why costumes come back. If a chart lists both weight and chest, follow the chest.
Size up or size down?
- Between sizes → size up. Loose is safe; tight restricts breathing and movement and gets shredded.
- Thick or double coat → size up one step for fluff volume (huskies, goldens, Maine Coons).
- Hats and headpieces: go by head circumference above the ears; the strap should be snug but slide off with one paw swipe.
Fit checks before the party (the safety part)
The ASPCA and AVMA both say the same thing: a costume must not restrict breathing, vision, hearing, movement or the ability to bark, and it shouldn't have small dangling parts that can be chewed off. The Humane Society adds the honest bit — some pets simply hate costumes. If yours freezes, tucks the tail or paws at it, switch to a reversible bandana and call it a win. Our full checklist: 7 costume safety rules.
Which Furly piece for which pet?
| Piece | Measure by | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Spooky Sweater ($22.99) | Chest + back length | Dogs and cats that tolerate clothing; cool evenings |
| Spider Pack ($19.99) | Chest (harness-style) | Photo-shoot drama, short wear |
| Witch Hat ($12.99) | Head circumference | Cats and small dogs, 5-minute photos |
| Bat Wings | Chest strap | Cats and small dogs, low fuss |
| Ghost Sheet | Back length | Dogs that dislike sleeves |
| Spooky Bandana | Neck | Costume-refusers |
More ideas ranked by effort: 10 easy pet Halloween costumes · what's new this year: Spider Pack, Spooky Sweater & Witch Hat.
Shop the Halloween drop — order by Oct 10 →
Costume sizing FAQs
What if my dog is between two costume sizes?
Size up. A slightly loose costume is comfortable and safe; a tight one restricts breathing and movement and usually gets pulled off. For thick or double-coated breeds, size up even if the chest measurement lands squarely in a size.
Can cats wear dog costumes?
Often yes for small-dog sizes, but cats have narrower chests and hate anything that limits their front legs. Hats, wings and bandanas are far better tolerated than full-body outfits.
How long can a pet wear a Halloween costume?
Keep it short — long enough for photos and a walk, then off. Watch for panting, freezing, tail-tucking or scratching at the outfit, and remove it at the first sign of stress.