Instructions for measuring your dog's neck circumference

How NOT to measure it:

A collar laid open on the table will give a false reading. Firstly, because most collars are padded and a padded collar has less inner circumference than a collar measured lengthwise. For example, a collar measured on the table with 50cm length and padding of 2cm thickness has a reduced radius, namely

$$\text{inner circumference}=\text{total lengthlength}-2\times \text{thickness des upholstery}$$

$$\text{inner circumference}=50\text{cm}-4\text{cm}=46\text{cm}$$

$$\text{Therefore, measure your dog’s neck circumference directly on the dog!}$$

materials:

• A soft measuring tape or string (e.g. a shoelace or other non-stretchy string)
• A ruler or scale if you are using a string
• Possibly a pen and paper to note the measurements

steps:

1. Calm your dog: It is easier to measure the neck circumference when your dog is calm and relaxed. Make sure he is standing in a comfortable position.

2. Find the right place: The neck circumference should be measured around the place where the collar normally sits. For most dogs, this is near the widest part of the neck, between the shoulder blades and the beginning of the head. For dogs that require an escape-proof collar, measure the neck circumference behind the ears, where the collar should not slip over.

3. Place the tape measure or string: Wrap the measuring tape or string around your dog's neck. It should be snug but not constricting.

4. Read the measurement:

   • If you have a tape measure use: Write down the measured value.
   • If you have a string Use: Mark the spot where the string comes around your dog's neck. Then lay the string flat next to a ruler or yardstick to measure the distance between the two ends.

1. Add additional space: You should add about 2 cm to the measured value so that the collar is not too tight and is still adjustable. This gives you the ideal inner collar circumference.

2. Note the measurement: It is helpful to write down the measurement you took and the amount of slack you added, especially when you are looking for a collar online or comparing different options at the pet store.

3. Neck circumference as an indication for custom collarsIf the collar size is given as the neck circumference, this is the neck circumference without any leeway.

Tip: Measure your dog's neck regularly, especially if he is a puppy or young dog as they can grow quickly. A well-fitting collar should be comfortable but secure and not be able to slip over the dog's head when it is on.