Choosing the Right Size: A Comprehensive Guide to Measuring and Fitting Your Dog’s Knee Brace

Investing in a knee brace for your furry companion can be a significant step in their recovery journey. However, just like with any supportive device, the effectiveness of a dog knee brace hinges on a proper fit. A brace that’s too tight can restrict circulation and cause discomfort, while one that’s too loose won’t provide adequate support. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of accurately measuring your dog’s leg.  At Posh we walk you through this process step by step, ensuring a perfect custom fit for your dog.

Why Accurate Sizing Matters

A well-fitting knee brace is crucial for several reasons:

• Optimal Support: The brace needs to be snug enough to provide the necessary stability to the joint and surrounding tissues.
• Comfort: A properly sized brace won’t rub, chafe, or cause unnecessary discomfort, encouraging your dog to tolerate wearing it.
• Proper Circulation: A brace that’s too tight can impede blood flow, hindering healing and potentially causing further issues.
• Effectiveness: If the brace is too loose, it won’t stay in place or provide the intended level of support, rendering it ineffective.
• Safety: A poorly fitting brace can slip and potentially cause tripping or further injury.  This is why we do not suggest to purchase a cheaper brace, as those shown made from cheap neoprene, for a severe injury like a CCL tear.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you begin measuring, gather the following:

• Soft Measuring Tape: A flexible fabric measuring tape is essential for accurate measurements. Avoid using metal retractable tapes.
• Treats or a Helper: Having treats on hand or an extra pair of hands can make the process smoother and more enjoyable for your dog.
• Pen and Paper or a Digital Note: To record the measurements.
• Your Dog: Ensure your dog is calm and in a standing position on a level surface.

Tips for Accurate Measurements:

• Measure the Injured Leg: Always measure the leg that will be wearing the brace.
• Don’t Measure Too Tightly or Too Loosely: The tape should be snug against the fur but not compressing the skin.
• Double-Check Your Measurements: It’s always a good idea to measure twice to ensure accuracy.
• Sizing can vary between brands.  With Posh We do this process with you, step by step, through a video call to ensure the perfect fit, as our product is a custom knee brace, and not an off the shelf cheaper brand.
• Consider Breed and Build: Some breeds have naturally thicker or thinner legs, which might influence the best size within a given measurement range.  Some dogs, such as daschunds or bull dogs may not have a leg that can be braced.

Trying On the Brace

Once you receive the brace, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for putting it on your dog. Observe your dog’s reaction and check for the following:

• Snug Fit: The brace should feel secure but not overly tight. You should be able to comfortably slide a finger or two underneath the straps.
• No Rubbing or Chafing: Check for any areas where the brace might be rubbing against your dog’s skin.
• Full Range of Motion (Within Limits): Ensure the brace allows for the prescribed range of motion without restriction or discomfort.
• Your Dog’s Comfort: Observe your dog’s behavior. Are they trying to take the brace off? Are they limping more? A properly fitted brace should not cause increased discomfort.

Adjustments and Monitoring

After the initial fitting, monitor your dog closely for any signs of discomfort or irritation. You may need to make minor adjustments to the straps to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. Regularly check the brace for any signs of wear and tear.  Again, Posh will walk you through the fitting, as we want to make sure you and your dog are back in top form.

Conclusion

By taking accurate measurements and carefully consulting the manufacturer, you can select a brace that provides the necessary support for a successful recovery. Remember to always monitor your dog while they are wearing the brace and consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about the fit or their comfort. With the right fit, a knee brace can be a valuable asset in your dog’s rehabilitation journey. If you are interested in a one of our braces, you can contact us via or contact page or visit us on Facebook.