A dog’s collar is an essential item for keeping your pet safe and secure. While some people prefer to train their pets without using training collars, simple dog collars ensure that all pets are safe while they’re out in the public. Collars come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate the various breed sizes of dogs. You should pick one that is a good fit for your dog. Furthermore, make sure your dog is at ease and is not bothered by the collar.
So, when it comes to a dog’s collar, size really does matter. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you find the right size collar for your pup. This guide provides a complete overview of dog collar sizing, including how to measure your dog’s neck and what size collar they need. We also include a handy dog collar size chart to help you find the right fit for your pup.
How to Measure Your Dog for a Collar?
The size of a dog’s collar depends on the size of the dog’s neck and head. The first step to making sure you get the right size collar for your dog is to measure the circumference of its neck. The width of the average human hand is about four inches, so you can use that as a reference for sizing a dog collar. There are three main measurements you need to take into account when sizing your dog for a collar:
- Circumference of the neck where the collar sits
- Circumference of the neck right behind the ears
- Width of the entire head, especially at the broadest part
Here’s how you can take these measurements: Use a soft tape calibrated in centimeters to measure your dog for the collar. (Alternatively, you may use a soft string or ribbon.) Begin by holding one end of the tape or string between your index and thumb on one hand. Carefully wrap the other half of the tape around the dog’s neck or head using your other hand.
Note the point where the two ends of the tape meet each other. (If a string is used, you can later measure the line using a ruler or tape.) A good size is when you can only fit two fingers between your dog’s neck and the collar.
Dog Collar Size Chart
This dog collar size chart will help you pick the right collar depending on your dog’s breed, neck size, and weight.
Collar Size |
Dog Neck Size |
Dog Weight |
Common Dog Breeds |
XX-Small |
6 – 8″ |
Less than 5 pounds |
Chihuahua, Chinese Crested, Teacup Yorkshire Terrier |
X-Small |
8 – 12″ |
5 to 10 pounds |
Dachshund, Maltese, Pomeranian, Pinscher Miniature, Papillon, Pekingese, Toy Poodle, Silky Terrier, Yorkshire Terrier |
Small |
10 – 14″ |
10 to 25 pounds |
Basenji, Beagle, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, Fox Terrier, Greyhound Italian, Pekingese, Miniature Schnauzer, Pug, Scottish Terrier |
Medium |
14 – 20″ |
Up to 55 pounds |
Border Collie, Australian Kelpie, Basset Hound, Britany, Boston Terrier, American Pitbull, English Bulldog, French Bulldog, Shih Tzu |
Large |
16 – 26″ |
Up to 75 pounds |
Boxer, Belgian Malinois, Bull Terrier, Dalmatian, Doberman Pinscher, Australian Shepherd, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, Weimaraner |
X-Large |
24 – 30″ |
More than 75 pounds |
Akita, American Bulldog, Bernese Mountain Dog, Great Dane, Mastiff, Rottweiler, Saint Bernard, Lurcher |
How to Choose the Right Size Collar for Your Dog?
Dog collars come in different sizes, so it’s crucial to pick the appropriate one for your dog. Not only is it important for your own convenience, but also for the safety of your dog. There are a few things to consider when choosing a dog collar, like:
Dog’s Breed
Considering your dog’s breed is the first step in choosing the right size of the dog collar. It is because different dog breeds have different sizes and amounts of fur. You may have also observed that some collars are labeled to say that certain dog breeds should wear them.
The Dog’s Neck and Head Size
The head and neck measurements of dogs can differ, even within the same breed. As a result, it’s important to measure your dog before buying a collar. To do this, simply adhere to the guidelines we previously provided. Make sure the collar fits comfortably around your pet’s neck so he doesn’t thrash around while wearing it.
A snug fit is necessary so he can’t wriggle out of his collar. However, you don’t want to squeeze him so tightly that he can’t breathe either.
The Adjustability of the Collar
We advise choosing an adjustable collar, especially if you’re buying it for a young puppy that is still growing. Make sure the collar fits comfortably around the puppy’s neck to give it more room to grow. Adjustable collars will save you money by preventing you from purchasing collars on a regular basis.
Tips to Buy the Perfect Dog Collar
- Once you’ve decided on a proper size based on the dog collar size chart, make sure you buy your dog’s collars from reputable dealers or manufacturers.
- Avoid buying fake or substandard products as these will cause injury and irritation to your pet.
- Avoid buying harnesses that fasten around your dog’s chest as these are meant more for horses and less for dogs.
- You may look for a collar with clips that fasten around your pet’s shoulders and abdomen so that they don’t move around too much while walking.
- A collar size slightly larger than your pet’s neck is ideal so there isn’t excessive pressure on one spot while he wears it.
- You can purchase a soft fabric pad that goes between your dog’s skin and the metal to reduce irritation and friction against his skin.
Final Thoughts on Dog Collar Size Chart
Choosing the right size for your dog’s collar helps keep him safe while he plays outside or goes on walks. You can consult our dog collar size chart to choose the right size collar for your pet. But collar size is not all that matters. You must also consider other factors like your dog’s breed, head and neck size, the amount of fur on its body, and the adjustability of the collar. We hope our guide will help you a lot when you purchase your next pet accessory!