Dog Jerseys: How to Choose the Right Size, Fabric and Team
In this Article
Key takeaways
- Back length and chest girth are the two measurements that determine jersey fit. Use them both: a jersey that fits the chest may not fit the back length, especially for long-bodied or barrel-chested breeds
- Mesh jerseys are the most breathable and are ideal for game-day wear indoors or at outdoor events. Jersey tees and raglan styles are warmer and work better in cooler weather or for dogs who need a softer feel against their skin
- PetSmart carries officially licensed jerseys for NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and NCAA teams, with most styles available in multiple sizes from XS through XL or larger
- A jersey that fits well and is introduced gradually with treats is one your dog will actually wear. One that’s too tight, too heavy, or suddenly appeared is one they’ll spend game time removing
- Bandanas, reversible collars, and team-specific leashes are lower-commitment ways to get your dog game-day ready if a full jersey isn’t the right fit
If you’re getting dressed in your team’s colors for game day, there’s a reasonable argument that your dog should be too. PetSmart carries officially licensed jerseys for many major professional sports league and top NCAA programs, which means the right jersey exists for your team. The question is usually which style and size is right for your dog.
This guide covers how to measure correctly, which jersey styles suit different dogs and occasions, a breakdown of what’s available by league, and how to make sure the jersey you buy is one your dog will actually tolerate wearing.
How to measure your dog for a jersey
Dog jersey sizing is not universal. A size medium in one brand may fit differently from a medium in another. Always use your dog’s measurements and cross-reference with the specific size chart for the jersey you’re buying.
The two measurements you need:
- Back length: From the base of the neck (where the collar sits) to the base of the tail. The most critical fit dimension for any jersey. A jersey that’s too short rides up; one that’s too long bunches and gets underfoot.
- Chest girth: Around the widest part of the chest, just behind the front legs. Barrel-chested breeds like Bulldogs and American Pit Bull Terriers often need to size up based on chest girth even when their back length is average.
If your dog falls between sizes, go up. A slightly roomier jersey is more comfortable and easier to move in than one that pulls. After measuring, use the chart on the specific product page for the most accurate size selection.
Jersey styles and what they’re best for
Mesh jerseys
The most popular style and the closest to what players actually wear. Mesh fabric is lightweight, breathable, and moves well with your dog. This is the right choice for indoor game watching, tailgates, and outdoor events in moderate temperatures. Most NFL, NBA, and MLB officially licensed dog jerseys come in a mesh format.
Jersey tees
A softer fabric jersey that functions more like a fitted t-shirt than a traditional mesh jersey. More comfortable for dogs who are sensitive to the looser feel of mesh, and warmer than a standard mesh jersey. A good option for dogs with shorter coats in cooler weather, or for dogs who haven’t worn jerseys before and do better with a softer initial introduction.
Raglan jerseys
A two-tone style with contrasting sleeves, common in baseball-themed apparel. The raglan sleeve design tends to allow more shoulder movement than a traditional sleeve, which many dogs find more comfortable. Popular in the MLB lineup.
Throwback and retro jerseys
A growing category at PetSmart. Throwback styles feature vintage team colorways and classic logo treatments. The fabric and fit are typically similar to current mesh jerseys, but the styling reads as a more deliberate collector’s item for serious sports fans.
Shop by league
NFL dog jerseys
The NFL is the most widely represented league in the dog jersey category, with options available for all 32 teams. Styles include standard mesh jerseys, raglan jerseys, color rush jerseys, and player-specific jerseys for current stars. NFL jerseys are available in multiple sizes from XS through XL and larger, making it one of the better leagues for finding fits across small, medium, and large breeds.
Shop NFL dog jerseys at PetSmart.
MLB dog jerseys
MLB offers one of the most varied style ranges in dog sports apparel: classic mesh jerseys, throwback and retro jerseys featuring vintage franchise colorways, and player-specific jerseys. The throwback category is particularly strong in MLB, with styles available for teams across both leagues. Sizing typically runs XS through XL with options for dogs up to large breed sizes.
Shop MLB dog jerseys at PetSmart.
NBA dog jerseys
NBA jerseys for dogs lean into the classic mesh basketball jersey silhouette, which is one of the most dog-friendly formats: lightweight, breathable, and with relatively minimal coverage. Styles available for most franchises, including mesh basketball jerseys and champion tees for recent title winners.
Shop NBA dog jerseys at PetSmart.
NHL dog jerseys
Hockey season runs through the colder months, which makes NHL dog jerseys a natural fit for fall and winter game days. NHL-branded styles include jerseys and team-branded apparel suited to the season. A good option for dogs who will be watching games in cooler indoor environments or heading to outdoor hockey-viewing events.
Shop NHL dog jerseys at PetSmart.
NCAA collegiate jerseys
For college sports fans, NCAA jerseys let your dog rep your alma mater, your state school, or your rivalry team. Coverage includes major football and basketball programs across conferences. NCAA styles include mesh jerseys, basketball jerseys, and hoodie tees for programs including Alabama, Duke, Texas, USC, Tennessee, and more.
Shop NCAA dog jerseys at PetSmart.
Browse the full range of all leagues at the dog jerseys and team sports hub.
Beyond the jersey: completing the game-day look
A jersey is the centerpiece, but it’s not the only way to get your dog in the spirit. The full team sports category at PetSmart includes:
- Sports bandanas: Reversible bandanas in team colors are available for most leagues, including NFL, MLB, and NCAA. These are the lowest-commitment option and the one most dogs accept without any introduction process.
- Team collars and leashes: Officially licensed collars and leashes in team colors and logo treatments. Practical for everyday wear during the season, not just game days.
- Cheerleader uniforms: For the dog whose spirit goes beyond a jersey. Cheerleader-style dresses and outfits available for some franchises.
For dogs who flat-out don’t wear jerseys, a team bandana and a sports collar does the job with far less negotiation.
Getting your dog comfortable in a jersey
The dogs who look most at ease in sports jerseys are almost always dogs whose owners took a few minutes to introduce the garment before game day, not the ones for whom the jersey appeared fully formed on kickoff.
A brief introduction process:
- Let your dog sniff the jersey before putting it on. A familiar smell reduces the novelty factor
- Drape it over their back briefly with a treat reward before fastening it
- Once fastened, keep the first session short and active: walk around, play a bit, give treats. Movement is distracting in the best way
- Watch for signs of discomfort: freezing, crouching, repeatedly trying to shake the jersey off. These mean either the fit is wrong or the introduction was too fast
Most dogs who are introduced to jerseys correctly with a well-fitted garment will wear them without significant objection. Most dogs who have a jersey suddenly dropped on them mid-game will spend that game on the floor working it off with their back leg.
