A lift harness only works if it fits. Too loose and it slides when you lift. Too tight and it rubs. The good news is that getting it right takes five minutes, a soft tape measure, and a treat or two.
What you need
- A soft fabric tape measure (or a piece of string and a ruler)
- Your dog standing on all four legs, on a non-slip surface
- A helper, if your dog is wobbly on their feet
The three measurements
- Waist. Measure around the narrowest part of the body, just in front of the back legs. Keep the tape snug but not tight. You should be able to slide two fingers underneath.
- Leg. Measure around the top of one back leg, where the thigh meets the body.
- Weight. Use a recent weight from your vet, or weigh yourself holding your dog and subtract your own weight if they are small enough to lift safely.
Measure twice. Dogs shift, and a centimetre matters.
Size chart: Padded Rear-Lift Support Harness
| Size | Waist | Leg | Dog's weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 35 to 45 cm (14 to 18 in) | 24 cm (10 in) | 6 to 10 kg (13 to 22 lb) |
| M | 42 to 54 cm (17 to 21 in) | 27 cm (11 in) | 9 to 16 kg (20 to 35 lb) |
| L | 48 to 60 cm (19 to 24 in) | 31 cm (12 in) | 15 to 22.5 kg (33 to 50 lb) |
| XL | 60 to 75 cm (24 to 30 in) | 40 cm (16 in) | 22.5 to 35 kg (50 to 77 lb) |
This is the same chart shown on the product page.
Choosing between two sizes
- Go by waist first. Weight is a guide. Two 50 lb dogs can have very different shapes.
- If the waist fits two sizes, use the leg measurement and weight to decide.
- Deep-chested or very lean dogs (greyhounds, some shepherds) often suit the smaller of two sizes.
- Thick-coated dogs: measure over the coat, snugly.
- Dogs over 35 kg (77 lb) or with a waist over 75 cm are outside this harness's range. Please do not size up and hope.
Still unsure? Email hello@lifelongpaw.com with the three measurements and your dog's breed, and we will tell you which size to order. If a harness arrives and the size is wrong, we will exchange it. See Shipping, Exchanges and Returns for how that works.
How to lift without hurting either of you
- Fit the harness while your dog is lying down or standing calmly. Fasten it snugly and check nothing is twisted or pinching.
- Stand close, beside their hips. The further away you are, the more strain on your back.
- Bend your knees, not your waist. Keep your back straight and lift with your legs.
- Lift just enough. You are helping, not carrying. Their feet should stay on the ground and do as much of the work as they can.
- Move at their pace. On stairs, go one step at a time and let them choose the speed.
- Give them a word. A consistent cue such as "up" tells them help is coming, so they push at the same moment you lift.
A few things to avoid
- Do not lift a dog off the ground by a rear harness alone. It supports the back end only.
- Do not leave a lift harness on all day or overnight. Take it off after use and check the skin underneath.
- Stop and call your vet if your dog cries out, seems in pain, or suddenly gets worse.
- After surgery or an injury, ask your vet how and when to use any support.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice. Our products are support aids, not medical devices. Your vet knows your dog and should guide any decision about their care.