Why Proper Sizing Matters

The right fit makes all the difference for your dog's comfort and safety.

  • Safety: A properly fitted collar won't slip over your dog's head or cause choking
  • Comfort: The right size prevents rubbing, chafing, and irritation
  • Effectiveness: Proper fit ensures better control during walks and training
  • Longevity: Correctly sized gear lasts longer and performs better

Taking a few minutes to measure correctly now will ensure years of comfortable wear for your furry friend.

Measuring dog collar

How to Measure Your Dog for a Collar

1

Find the Right Spot

Locate where the collar will sit on your dog's neck, typically at the middle of the neck.

Not too close to the ears or shoulders

2

Measure Carefully

Use a soft measuring tape around your dog's neck at the desired position.

Should be snug but not tight - you should be able to fit two fingers between the tape and your dog's neck

3

Add Room for Comfort

Record the measurement in inches, then add 2" for comfort.

This gives your dog room to move while ensuring the collar won't slip off

Pro Tip

If you don't have a soft measuring tape, use a piece of string or ribbon, mark where it meets, and then measure that length with a ruler.

Collar Sizing Chart

Size Neck Measurement Recommended For Collar Width
XS 8" - 12" Toy breeds, puppies 1/2"
S 10" - 15" Small breeds 5/8" or 3/4"
M 13" - 18" Medium breeds 3/4" or 1"
L 16" - 22" Large breeds 1" or 1.5"
XL 20" - 26" Giant breeds 1.5" or 2"

Choosing the Right Width

The width of your dog's collar is important for both comfort and control:

  • 1/2" width: Best for toy breeds and puppies under 15 lbs
  • 5/8" width: Great for small breeds 10-25 lbs
  • 3/4" width: Ideal for small to medium breeds 20-45 lbs
  • 1" width: Perfect for medium to large breeds 40-80 lbs
  • 1.5" width: Recommended for large to giant breeds 75+ lbs
  • 2" width: For giant breeds 100+ lbs or strong pullers

Breed-Specific Recommendations

While every dog is unique, here are some general guidelines:

  • Chihuahua, Yorkie, Maltese: XS, 1/2" width
  • Beagle, Cocker Spaniel: S, 5/8" or 3/4" width
  • Border Collie, Bulldog: M, 3/4" or 1" width
  • Labrador, Golden Retriever: L, 1" width
  • German Shepherd, Rottweiler: L-XL, 1" or 1.5" width
  • Great Dane, Mastiff: XL, 1.5" or 2" width
Always measure your dog rather than relying solely on breed recommendations.

Leash Selection Guide

Leash Width

Like collars, leash width should be proportional to your dog's size:

  • 1/2" width: Toy and small breeds under 25 lbs
  • 5/8" width: Small to medium breeds 20-45 lbs
  • 3/4" width: Medium to large breeds 40-80 lbs
  • 1" width: Large to giant breeds 75+ lbs or strong pullers

Leash Length

We offer several standard lengths to suit different needs:

  • 4 foot: Great for crowded areas and precise control
  • 5 foot: Our most popular all-purpose length
  • 6 foot: Standard length, offers good balance of control and freedom
  • 8 foot: Provides more freedom while still maintaining control
  • 10 foot: Training leads and for areas where more freedom is safe

Special Features

Traffic Handle

A secondary handle near the clasp provides quick control in high-traffic areas or when you need your dog close. Recommended for all dogs, especially those over 25 lbs.

Double-Ended Leashes

With clips at both ends, these versatile leashes can be used with a harness and collar simultaneously or wrapped around your waist for hands-free walking.

Hardware Options

Buckle Collar

Buckle Collars

Best for: Everyday wear, dogs who don't need their collars removed frequently

Features: Secure, classic look, won't accidentally release

Quick Release Collar

Quick Release Collars

Best for: Dogs who need collars removed frequently, supervised play

Features: Easy on/off, safety release under pressure (plastic versions)

Martingale Collar

Martingale Collars

Best for: Dogs with narrow heads (sighthounds), escape artists

Features: Limited-slip design prevents backing out of collar

Frequently Asked Questions

A properly fitted collar should allow you to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck. It should be snug enough not to slip over their head but loose enough to be comfortable. If your dog is between sizes, we recommend going with the larger size.

For puppies and growing dogs, we recommend measuring their current neck size and adding 3-4 inches instead of the standard 2 inches. This gives them room to grow. You may need to use the smallest holes initially and adjust as they grow. For rapidly growing large breed puppies, consider purchasing an adjustable collar that spans multiple size ranges.

If your dog's measurements fall between two sizes, we generally recommend going with the larger size. Our collars have multiple adjustment holes to ensure a proper fit. If you're concerned about a specific measurement, please contact us, and we'll be happy to help you select the right size.

Yes! We're happy to create custom sizes for dogs with unique measurements. Please visit our Custom Orders page or contact us directly with your specific requirements.

Need Help With Sizing?

Still unsure about which size is right for your dog? We're here to help!

Contact Us