How to choose the right collar size for your dog

It’s crucial to choose the right collar for your dog. While it is always tempting to focus on style, comfort and safety are far more important. A collar which is too small will be terribly uncomfortable for your pet and a collar which is too large could fall off or get snagged by branches and fence posts.

You will notice that many collars offer guidelines as to the breeds they are appropriate for. These can be useful and will help you to narrow down your choices. But every dog is an individual and you cannot select a collar based on the recommended breeds alone. Your pooch may be larger than average for its breed and could be sporting an abnormally long coat.

There’s no substitute for measuring your dog’s neck. You should do this before and after they have been groomed to ensure that the collar you choose will fit correctly whether their coat is long or has been clipped. You will be surprised what a difference a severe clip can make!

Does collar width matter?

Collars are available in different lengths and you will also see a variety of widths. Thicker collars offer more support which makes them ideal for bigger and stronger dogs. They can be more comfortable because they reduce the pressure applied to the neck. However, wide collars tend to weigh more and may not be appropriate for smaller dogs.

Collars for growing dogs

Your puppy will need a collar as soon as you welcome your furry friend into your home but they will be growing for several months. An adjustable collar is a good investment initially but whatever style you choose, keep checking it to ensure that it hasn’t become too tight. You may have to replace your puppy’s collar several times before they reach their adult size.

Measuring your dog

Before investing in any collar, measure your dog’s neck using a flexible tape measure. Position the tape a few inches lower than your dog’s head, measure the circumference of the neck and then add 2.5cm for small dogs, 5cm for larger breeds and 7.5cm for dogs that weigh more than 35kg. Don’t pull the tape tight when measuring and if you don’t have a tape to hand, use a piece of string and then measure the string with a ruler.

You will now have a good idea which collar size you need but always test the collar when it arrives and adjust it for the perfect fit. You should be able to slide two fingers under the collar. If you can’t, it’s too small.

Dog Collar Sizes

Collar sizes can vary between brands and even between styles but the following is a rough guide to collar sizes that may help you to make the right choice.

Extra Small Dog Collar

Neck size: 20-30cm
Suggested breeds: Chihuahua, Toy Poodle, Jack Russell
Recommended width: 1.6cm

Small Dog Collar

Neck size: 25-35cm
Suggested breeds: Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, Pug
Recommended width: 1.9cm

Medium Dog Collar

Neck size: 35-50cm
Suggested breeds: Dalmatian, Springer Spaniel, Collie
Recommended width: 1.9cm

Large Dog Collar

Neck size: 45-60cm
Suggested breeds: Boxer, German Shepherd, Old English Sheepdog, Labrador
Recommended width: 2.5cm

Extra Large Dog Collar

Neck size: 55-75cm
Suggested breeds: Great Dane, St. Bernard
Recommended width: 2.5cm

Measuring for success

If you measure your dog carefully, you will find a collar which is just perfect for your pooch. One which fits properly and which is comfortable for your pet at all times. You will discover amazing choices at Cuddles Pet Store with something to suit every budget. Our range features stylish and funky designs that ensure your pooch will always rock their look.