If you own a Bull Terrier, you already know that "standard" dog rules rarely apply to them. From their playful, clownish personalities to their unique "gladiator" physique, the Bull Terrier is a breed apart. However, that distinctive egg-shaped head, muscular neck, and deep barrel chest can make finding the perfect walking gear a nightmare.
Most generic dog harness size guides are designed for dogs with more proportional builds, like Labradors or Golden Retrievers. When you try to apply those standard charts to a Bull Terrier, you often end up with a harness that fits the neck but is too tight in the chest, or one that fits the body but hangs loosely around the shoulders, creating a major escape risk.
A properly fitted harness isn't just about aesthetics; it is a critical safety tool. Bull Terriers are strong, energetic pullers with a high prey drive. An ill-fitting harness can cause chafing, restrict movement, or worse—allow your dog to slip out and run into traffic.
In this expert guide, we will walk you through exactly how to measure a Bull Terrier for the perfect fit, ensuring your walks are safe, comfortable, and stylish.
Why the "Bull Terrier Build" Requires Special Attention
Before grabbing the tape measure, it is important to understand the anatomy you are working with. The Bull Terrier silhouette is famous for a reason.
- The conical neck: unlike many breeds where the neck is clearly defined, a Bull Terrier’s neck is thick, muscular, and often wider at the base than near the ears.
- The deep chest: Bull Terriers have a significant chest depth compared to their waist. This creates a dramatic taper that confuses standard sizing algorithms.
- The muscular shoulders: Because they are muscular and active, they need a comfortable harness for Bull Terriers that allows full range of motion in the shoulder blades (scapula) without rubbing the sensitive skin in the armpits.
Tools You Will Need
To get an accurate measurement, avoid using a stiff metal construction tape measure. It won't curve around the muscles correctly. Instead, gather:
- A soft measuring tape: A vinyl seamstress tape is best. If you don't have one, use a piece of string and then measure the string against a ruler.
- A pen and paper: To write down the exact numbers immediately.
- High-value treats: To keep your Bully standing still and straight during the process.
Step-by-Step: How to Measure a Bull Terrier
For the most accurate results, your dog needs to be standing on a flat surface on all four legs. Do not measure them while they are sitting or lying down, as this shifts their weight and changes the circumference of their chest.
Measuring the neck
For a collar, you would measure the upper neck. However, for a harness, you need to measure the base of the neck—the thickest part where the neck meets the shoulders.
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Place the tape measure just above the shoulder blades and wrap it around the front of the chest bone (sternum).
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This is typically lower than where their collar sits.
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Expert tip: Apply the "two-finger rule." You should be able to slide two fingers flat between the tape and your dog's skin. This ensures the harness or collar won't choke them when they lower their head to sniff.
Measuring the chest girth
This is the most critical measurement for this breed. The Bull Terrier chest measurement determines the stability of the harness.
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Locate the widest part of your dog's ribcage. This is usually just behind the front legs (the "armpits").
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Wrap the tape measure all the way around the torso.
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Ensure the tape is snug but not digging into the skin.
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Important: Because Bull Terriers have short hair and sensitive skin, a harness that is too tight in the girth will cause friction burns quickly.
Using the dog harness measurement chart
Once you have your numbers, it is time to look at the dog harness measurement chart provided on the product page. Here is how to interpret it for a Bull Terrier:
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Always prioritize girth: If your Bull Terrier's neck size fits a Medium but their chest size fits a Large, choose the Large. All of our harnesses have adjustable neck straps, but the chest strap carries the load.
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Between sizes? Size up: It is easier to tighten a slightly larger harness than to force a small one.
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Check the adjustability range: Look for harnesses that list a range (e.g., "Chest: 22-27 inches"). Ideally, your dog's measurement should fall in the middle of that range, not at the very end.
The Best Harness for Bull Terriers: Our Top 3 Picks
At Bull Terrier World, we have tested countless models to find the ones that actually accommodate the unique geometry of the breed. Based on our experience and customer feedback, here are the top contenders.
1. The 3M No-Pull Escape-Proof Harness
This is widely considered the best harness for Bull Terriers who are active and perhaps a bit stubborn on the leash.
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Why it fits: It features highly adjustable straps at the neck, chest and belly, allowing you to customize the fit to their unique build.
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Safety: The reflective 3M stitching keeps your dog visible during night walks, while three sets of straps ensure a secure, escape-proof fit. The handle on the back gives you immediate control in emergencies, and the metal D ring on the chest is perfect for those Bull Terriers who tend to pull while walking.
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Comfort: The padded mesh lining prevents the nylon from rubbing directly against the skin.
2. The 3M No-Pull Vest Harness
If your Bull Terrier pulls like a freight train, this vest style is a game-changer.
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Why it works: It distributes pressure evenly across the chest and shoulders, preventing coughing or gagging if they lunge.
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No-Pull design: The front D-ring attachment point allows you to steer your dog's body sideways when they pull, naturally discouraging the behavior without pain.
- Safety: The reflective 3M details keep your Bull Terrier visible during night walks.
3. "The Commander" Tactical Harness
For the strong, muscular Bull Terrier, sometimes you need heavy-duty gear.
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Why it fits: Tactical harnesses are designed for working dogs and offer a robust structure.
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Control: It features a large control handle and durable metal hardware that can withstand the sudden bursts of energy typical of the breed. stainless steel D rings on the chest and back provide superior control.
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Style: It complements the muscular look of the breed perfectly.
Fitting a Harness on a Bull Terrier
Buying the right size is step one; fitting a harness on a Bull Terrier correctly is step two. Once the harness arrives, follow this protocol:
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Loosen everything: Before putting it on the dog, loosen all straps to their maximum length. This makes slipping it over the head less stressful for the dog.
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The shake test: Once buckled, the harness should not rotate significantly side-to-side. If it slides around the torso like a hula hoop, it is too loose and will cause chafing.
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The armpit check: Lift your dog's front leg. There should be clear space between the strap and the armpit. If the strap touches the armpit when the dog is standing still, it will cut into the skin when they walk.
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Re-check after 10 minutes: Nylon can stretch slightly, and the dog's fur will settle. Start your walk, and after 10 minutes, do another "two-finger" check to ensure the fit is still secure.
Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid
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Guessing based on weight: A 50lb Bulldog and a 50lb Bull Terrier have completely different shapes. Never buy based solely on weight.
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Measuring an old harness: Do not measure your old, stretched-out harness. Always measure the dog.
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Ignoring the coat: While Bull Terriers have short hair, if your dog is wearing a winter coat under the harness, you need to account for that extra inch of girth.
Final Thoughts
Taking the time to properly measure your dog might seem tedious, but it is the best investment you can make for your walks. A Bull Terrier harness sizing mishap results in returns, frustration, and uncomfortable walks. By following this guide and choosing high-quality gear, you ensure that your "kid in a dog suit" is safe, secure, and ready for adventure.
Remember, a well-fitted harness is the link between you and your dog. Make sure it’s a strong one.