The Miniature Dog Clothes Guide › Why Miniature Dogs Are So Hard to Fit
From Houndz in the Hood, based on the fitting notes of founder Terri Goodwillie, who has made breed-fitted dog clothes in New York City since 1999. Updated October 2026.
Short answer: most dogs in the Miniature line have a chest 2 to 2.5 inches larger than their back length, so clothes sized only by length tend to pull across the chest or hang loose along the back. Clothes cut to the breed’s shape, measured by both length and chest, fit much better.
The Miniature shape
Our Miniature Clothing Line is sized and shaped for Miniature breeds such as Miniature Pinschers, Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers and Miniature Poodles. The size chart covers dogs about 11 to 12 inches long, with a chest of 13 to 17 inches and a weight of 6 to 11 pounds. The key number is the chest: most Miniature breeds have a chest 2 to 2.5 inches larger than their length.
What goes wrong with generic sizes
- Sized by length only. Many dog clothes are sold by back length. A size that matches the back may not close comfortably over the chest, and a size that fits the chest may bunch along the back.
- Back-only coverage. Coats and many sweaters cover the back and leave the belly and back legs open.
- Closures that rub or come undone. Velcro, zippers and clasps can catch fur or loosen on an active dog.
- Slipping and twisting. Without legs to hold it in place, a garment can slide around on a small, busy dog.
How breed-fitted clothes are made
Since 1999, every Houndz in the Hood pattern has been sized and shaped to the breed, the way a dressmaker fits a client. Patterns start from AKC breed measurements and are refined on real dogs. Each piece is sewn in New York City’s garment district and checked by hand before it ships.
That fit is why we recommend a bodysuit. Our Miniature Bodysuits cover the chest, belly and all four legs, stretch to go on with no zippers, velcro or clasps, and have a discreet leash opening on the back. The Heavy Fleece Bodysuit even stretches sideways for dogs of different weights. Because the legs hold the suit in place, it stays where it belongs through walks, play and bathroom breaks.
Every Miniature bodysuit
- Indoor/Outdoor Bodysuits ($45) for mild weather, inside and out
- Heavy Fleece Bodysuits ($50) and Heavy Fleece Hooded Bodysuits ($55) for cold, windy winters
- Windblock Fleece Bodysuits ($60) and Windblock Fleece Hooded Bodysuit ($60) for wind, snow and freezing days
- Extra Heavy Fleece Hooded Bodysuits ($60), Extra Heavy Windblock Fleece Bodysuit ($62) and Extra Heavy Windblock Fleece Hooded Bodysuit ($66) for the harshest weather
- Jammies ($40) for sleeping and Rompers ($38) for air-conditioning, travel and sun
Is your dog a mix?
Shape matters more than the breed name. If your dog is a mix, or very large or small chested for its length, measure the length and girth and send them to us, or write the chest size in the comments of your order, and we’ll help you choose.
Next step: learn how to measure your Miniature for clothes.
Ready to find your Miniature’s fit?
Browse all Miniature dog clothes, check the Miniature sizing guide, or send us your dog’s measurements and we’ll help you choose.
Frequently asked questions
Why don't regular dog clothes fit my Chihuahua or Min Pin?
Many dog clothes are sized by back length only. Most Miniature breeds have a chest 2 to 2.5 inches larger than their length, so generic sizes can pull at the chest or bunch along the back.
Which breeds fit the Houndz Miniature line?
It is sized and shaped for Miniature breeds such as Miniature Pinschers, Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers and Miniature Poodles. For a mix, compare the length and chest with the size chart or send us the measurements.