Which collar width is suitable for my dog? How do I measure the neck circumference?
How wide should the collar be?
The right collar width depends on your dog’s size, weight, neck circumference and build. As a general guide, narrower collars of around 1–2.5 cm are usually suitable for small dogs, around 3–4 cm for medium-sized dogs, and often 4–10 cm wide collars for large or powerful dogs. For very large dogs, particularly wide collars may also be suitable depending on their build.
A common misconception is that a collar for a large dog simply needs to be longer. In addition to the neck circumference, the width of the collar also plays an important role in fit and comfort.
It can be difficult to find appropriately wide collars for large and powerful dogs in traditional pet shops. This is exactly why Charlotte’s Choice was created: we specialise in collars and accessories for large and strong dogs.
Why can a wider collar be a good choice?
Your dog’s neck is a sensitive area. Especially with powerful dogs or dogs that pull strongly on the lead, a very narrow collar concentrates the pressure on a smaller area.
A wider collar distributes this pressure over a larger surface area and can therefore be more comfortable to wear. At the same time, the collar should always suit your dog’s anatomy and be adjusted correctly.
In addition to width, materials, workmanship and padding also play an important role. Soft and skin-friendly materials can help reduce friction and improve comfort.
If your dog pulls strongly on the lead on a regular basis, you should not focus on collar width alone. Depending on your dog and the situation, a well-fitting harness can also be a useful alternative or addition.
Which collar width is right for my dog?
The following measurements are intended as a general guide. Your dog’s neck length, build and individual comfort should always be taken into account.
- Very small dogs, e.g. Chihuahua:
approx. 1–1.5 cm - Small to medium-sized dogs, e.g. Dachshund or Beagle:
approx. 2–2.5 cm - Medium to large dogs, e.g. Labrador, Golden Retriever or Australian Shepherd:
approx. 3–4 cm - Large dogs, e.g. Ridgeback, Doberman or Malinois:
approx. 4–5 cm - Large and powerful dogs, e.g. Amstaff, Rottweiler or Dogo Argentino:
approx. 5–7 cm - Very large dogs, e.g. Great Dane or Mastiff:
often 5–10 cm, depending on neck length and build.
Here are the links to our collars by width:
How can I get an impression of how the width of a collar looks on my dog?
A simple trick to see which collar width suits your dog
- Use a strip of paper or fabric: You only need a strip of paper or fabric. Fabric is more flexible and sits more naturally around your dog’s neck, but paper works too.
- Choose the widths you want to test: For example 1 cm, 2.5 cm, 4 cm, 5 cm or 7 cm.
- Cut the strips to size: Cut the strips to the desired widths. They should be long enough to fit loosely around your dog’s neck, similar to a collar.
- Place the strip around the neck: Place each strip around your dog’s neck one at a time without tightening it. This gives you a visual impression of how each collar width will look.
- Compare the different widths: Look at how the different widths suit your dog. Consider not only the appearance, but also whether the width suits your dog’s neck, build and freedom of movement.
- Take photos if you like: Take a photo of your dog wearing each width. This makes it much easier to compare the different options afterwards.
This simple method allows you to try different dog collar widths before choosing a collar. It gives you a good idea of which width looks and feels most suitable for your dog.
If you are still unsure which collar width is best for your dog, you can also ask a dog trainer or veterinarian for advice.
Guide to measuring your dog's neck circumference
How to measure your dog’s neck correctly
What you need
- A soft measuring tape or a non-stretch string, such as a shoelace
- A ruler if you are using a string
- A pen and paper if you want to note down the measurement
Step by step
- Make sure your dog is standing calmly:
Measuring the neck circumference is easiest when your dog is relaxed and standing in a natural position. - Find the correct position:
Measure the neck where the collar will normally sit. For most dogs, this is around the widest part of the neck between the shoulder area and the head. - Place the measuring tape around the neck:
Wrap the tape around your dog’s neck. It should sit close to the neck without cutting in or restricting your dog. - Read the neck measurement:
- If you are using a measuring tape, simply read and note down the measurement.
- If you are using a string, mark the point where the ends meet. Then lay the string flat next to a ruler and measure the length.
- Allow for a little extra room:
You can add approximately 2 cm to the measured neck circumference so that the collar does not sit too tightly and remains comfortable. - Write down the measurement:
Note down the neck circumference and the additional allowance so you can easily compare it with the sizing information for the collar you would like to order.
Tip: Measure your dog’s neck regularly, especially if you have a puppy or young dog, as they can grow quickly. A well-fitting collar should be comfortable and secure and should not be able to slip over your dog’s head.
Still unsure about the right width or size?
If you are not sure which collar width or neck size is suitable for your dog, feel free to contact us. With information about your dog’s breed, weight and neck circumference, we will be happy to help you choose a suitable model.
