We love dogs of all sizes, shapes, and breeds, but that doesn’t mean our braces are suited to all dogs. Ortho Dog braces and wraps fit medium to large to extra large dogs. This guide will help you determine if a brace or wrap will fit your pup and provide fitting and sizing instructions.
Additional Resources:
Please consult with your veterinarian prior to ordering an Ortho Dog brace.
While our braces support a wide range of canine health conditions from torn ACLs to hip dysplasia only your veterinarian can determine what is the right course of action for you and your pup.
Dog Breeds We Work With Regularly
If your dog’s breed isn’t listed, check the sizing chart by brace below, as each brace has different measurements and weight requirements. If you’re still unsure, contact us.
We also love mixed breeds, mutts, and rescues! Use our sizing calculators to determine if an Ortho Dog brace will fit your pup. If you have a German Shepherd, read our specialized sizing instructions.
- German Shepherds
- Labs
- Golden Retrievers
- Labradoodles
- Pitbulls
- Boxers
- Collies
- Australian Shepherds
- Great Danes
- Malamutes
- Mixed Breeds
- Large puppies
- And more!
Harness and Brace Sizing
How To Measure
Each of our braces have different measurements for determining if an Ortho Dog brace will fit. Watch our video to learn how to properly measure your dog.
- All measurements should be taken with your dog standing.
- Use a soft measuring tape (or string) for a snug measurement.
Harness
The Hip Hound and Cruciate Care Knee Braces both come with a harness. The harness fit is determined by the chest circumference measurements. The minimum size to fit is 12 inches, with a maximum of 43 inches. Please note: our harness color is determined by size and you will not have a choice regarding color.
Measure your dog’s chest by wrapping the measuring tape around the body.
Hip Hound Brace
The Hip Hound Brace comes in small, medium, large and extra-large. You will need to measure the following:
- chest circumference for the harness
- height for the brace (minimum 13 inches)
Measure your dog’s height from the bottom paw to the top of the lower back.
Cruciate Care Knee Brace
The Cruciate Care Knee Brace comes in medium, large and extra-large. You will need to measure the following:
- chest circumference for the harness
- thigh circumference for the brace (min 9″ – max 19″)
- height for the brace (minimum 19 inches)
Measure around the middle of the thigh, halfway between the bend of the knee and the groin for a snug fit. At the hind leg, measure from the paw to the top of the back to determine your dog’s height.
Which side is injured? To determine your dog’s injured leg, stand behind your dog looking toward your dog’s head. Your Right leg and your dog’s Right leg will correspond.
Hock Holder and Wrist Wrap
The Hock Holder and Wrist Wrap comes in medium and large. Its size is determined only by weight. They fit dogs with a weight of approximately 25 lbs and up. No further measurements are needed.
Weighing your dog on a home scale
If your dog is small enough to pick up, you can use your home scale to determine weight. First, weigh yourself on the scale and record the weight. Next, pick up your dog and step back on the scale, recording your combined weight. Subtract your weight from your combined weight for your dog’s weight.
Is your dog too large to weigh at home?
Dog scales are available online for sale, however most vets will allow you to stop by to use their scale free of charge. Call your veterinarian to see if this is something they allow.
How to put on the Hock Holder Wrap Video
Contact Us For Support
Dealing with a loss of mobility in your canine companions is tough! We know. In fact, Ortho Dog was created after co-founders Elizabeth and Karen struggled to find solutions for their pups. Learn more about our story.
We are here for support. Please contact us if you have any questions about a brace you are considering or have purchased. Is there something unique about your dog’s body that might impact sizing or comfort using a brace? Please reach out for consultation before ordering. We are committed to helping your pups have improved mobility and a fulfilling life. For inspiration or encouragement, read our Recovery Tails.