How to Measure and Identify the Size of Your Dog

When filling out your Fortify Form after purchasing your Fortify Plan, it's essential to provide accurate information about the size of your dog. Whether your dog is small, medium, or large, its size may impact the security recommendations for your home. By knowing how to measure your dog and identify its size category, you can ensure your Fortify Plan is tailored to your household’s specific needs. This guide will help you determine the size of your dog, using the three main size classifications: small, medium, and large.

1. Small Dogs (Under 25 lbs / 11 kg)

Small dogs weigh under 25 lbs (11 kg) and are commonly associated with toy or small breed categories. These dogs are typically easier to manage indoors due to their size and are often more portable, but their small stature may require specific safety measures in your home.

Examples of Small Breed Dogs:

  • Chihuahua
  • Pomeranian
  • Shih Tzu
  • Dachshund

How to Weigh Your Small Dog:

  1. Use a household scale: Weigh yourself first, then hold your dog and subtract your weight to get the dog's weight.
  2. Use a pet scale: If you have one, this will give you a more accurate reading.

Small Dog Weight Classification:

  • Dogs weighing less than 25 lbs (11 kg) fall into the small breed category.
  • It’s important to report this in your Fortify Form to ensure your plan considers any special needs related to the safety and mobility of smaller dogs.

2. Medium Dogs (25-50 lbs / 11-23 kg)

Medium dogs weigh between 25 and 50 lbs (11 to 23 kg) and are known for their balanced size. They are often sturdy enough to enjoy outdoor activities but not so large that they become difficult to manage in smaller living spaces.

Examples of Medium Breed Dogs:

  • Beagle
  • Border Collie
  • Cocker Spaniel
  • Australian Shepherd

Measuring Medium Dog Weight:

  1. Place your dog on a pet scale to get an accurate reading, or follow the same method as with small dogs using a household scale.
  2. For larger medium-sized dogs, visiting the vet for a weigh-in may provide the most precise measurement.

Medium Dog Weight Classification:

  • Dogs between 25 and 50 lbs (11 to 23 kg) are considered medium-sized.
  • Entering the correct medium dog weight into your Fortify Form will ensure that appropriate security measures are in place for your dog's size.

3. Large Dogs (Over 50 lbs / 23 kg)

Large dogs weigh over 50 lbs (23 kg) and include many working or herding breeds. These dogs typically require more space and can present different security concerns due to their size and strength.

Examples of Large Breed Dogs:

  • Labrador Retriever
  • German Shepherd
  • Golden Retriever
  • Rottweiler

How to Weigh a Large Dog:

  1. For large dogs, it may be necessary to use a pet scale or take your dog to the vet for an accurate weight measurement.
  2. Use the two-step method with a household scale if your dog is cooperative, but ensure you can safely lift your dog without injury.

Large Dog Weight Classification:

  • Dogs weighing over 50 lbs (23 kg) fall into the large breed category.
  • Reporting your dog’s large weight class in your Fortify Form is essential for ensuring your home’s security measures account for the needs of larger, more active dogs.

Why Your Dog’s Size Matters for Your Fortify Form

Accurately identifying your dog's size is important because it affects how you secure your home. For example, larger dogs may require more robust gates or reinforced barriers, while small dogs may need specialized safety features to avoid hazards like stairs or small openings. By determining whether your dog falls into the small, medium, or large breed category, you can ensure that your Fortify Plan is customized for both your dog’s and your home’s needs.