How Tight Should a Dog Collar Be?

All dogs need a dog collar, primarily to hold their ID and rabies tag, but also to attach their leash. Some collars serve different purposes and will have a different fit. Choosing the best collar type for your dog will help make training and other activities easier and more enjoyable for you and your dog. 

Average collar sizes for each type of dog

Select a collar that is properly fitted in the neck, but not too tight. A common way to see if a collar fits properly is the “two-finger rule.” To test this, you take your middle and pointer fingers and slide them between your dog’s neck and the collar. If your fingers slide under the collar easily but also feel snug, then the fit of the collar is good. 

Which collar is right for your dog?

There are many types of dog collars to choose from, with each one serving a specific purpose. Training collars such as the martingale collar and the head collar are specifically designed for effective control. One of the most commonly used collars, a slip collar, is a type of collar that comes with a strap and leash to secure the dog.

Breakaway collars

This type of collar is a strangulation hazard and is a concern, as strangulation caused by collar accidents are very common, mostly occurring at home, usually in the backyard away from supervision. It is similar to buckle collars with the difference being it also has a strap or buckle on the collar that will break if enough force is put behind it.

Safety stretch collars

This collar has an elastic piece or strap that allows for a certain amount of give when under pressure, but will stretch open if too much pressure is applied if a dog were to get caught on a fence, branch, or other fixture, allowing the dog to safely free itself. 

The flat collar

Flat collars are popular because they can be simple or stylish. They’re usually made of fabric or leather and are used for holding identification tags and vaccination tags. These are not designed for control during training and could cause injury if the dog has a tendency to pull. A harness, which helps in controlling the entire body, is recommended.

The Martingale collar

The Martingale dog collar is specially made for a large dog. It should not be tight because the harshness of the collar would make it uncomfortable. It has a secondary loop attached to the back of the collar. When tension is put on this loop, it makes the collar tighten, keeping your dog safe and comfortable at the same time. 

The head collar

Head collars, also called head halters, are used as an alternative to neck control collars such as the Martingale collar. The head collar works by applying pressure behind the neck and around the muzzle of the dog to prompt him to display the right response.

A head collar for your dog is a few inches wider than that of a dog’s collar. This type of collar is designed with a strap to attach to the head for a proper fit. To measure your dog’s neck size for an adjustable head collar, measure from the center of the dog’s head to the wrist, then just before the buckle collar. 

Chest measurement is based on your dog’s weight. It is a measurement of the chest. Be careful in measuring your pet’s chest because a chest measurement is not helpful for measuring a pet’s neck or for measuring for the right collar size. It is only effective for choosing a harness, which helps control the dog by using pressure on the body instead of the neck.

Other types of control collars are shock collars, electronic collars and receiving collars. Electronic collars are used for control and tracking. Within these collars, you will find different mechanisms for controlling the stimulation. Electronic collars and receiving collars use sensors embedded in a small transmitter located on the collar. These sensors and collars use a wireless reader to transmit information over the air while the dog is on a leash. The transmitter also sends out a signal via the short, narrow, and flexible cable that comes with the collar. The dog should only walk under a choke collar when carrying the tiny transmitter.

When it comes to choosing a more fashionable dog collar for your pup, you will want to consider the colors and materials. A traditional collar will look bland, but you can add a few more colors and textures to the look. You can also add some pet logos or a few illustrations. You will want to keep in mind that a collar with a logo should be matte, meaning that you should not rub the dog’s fur. 

How to measure your dog for a collar

It is essential that you measure the dog’s neck on a cloth tape measure because this is the most reliable way to get your pet’s measurements. You should always select a collar that is fitted to the dog’s neck properly. The dog’s collar should not be too tight to provide the dog with a comfortable fit. Measure the dog’s neck size first. You should also consider the collar size as well because it will help you determine the collar fit. The more snaps you can get on the collar, the more comfortable the fit will be.

How to adjust a dog collar for a proper fit

For the proper fit, you will first need to check your dog’s neck. Once you have checked your dog’s neck, the collar should be snug enough but not tight. It should not have any buckle part that protrudes and must be large enough to spread in all directions.

The shoulder of the martingale collar should be small enough that it can slip through the dog’s skin. A number of pet collars have an adjustable length that is adjustable to one inch. 

Make sure the collar is not too loose. Once you have the dog’s neck adjusted, you can put a leash on the dog. The leash will stop the dog from touching its neck, but it should still be able to be tightened slightly. The leash should also not be restrictive.

How to test the fit of your dog’s collar

When you are walking your pup, you should always check the fit of the collar. With the learning curve associated with a training collar, you will most likely end up with a loose collar. You should always try the collar on the dog. If the collar is fitted tightly, you should remove it because this is the easiest way to determine the collar fit. 

Training your dog—a great way to test your dog’s collar and leash

Training your dog to walk with a leash is an important task. Remember that no two dogs are alike, and that each dog’s style and personality are unique. Consider the different methods of training and how they affect your dog, so you can find the best fit for your pup.

Remember not to yell at your dog during training, and never yank or pull hard on your dog’s leash for obedience purposes. Do not do anything that will cause the dog harm during training, especially when using corrective reinforcement of any kind. Most importantly, a dog should never be tied or tethered to anything using just a leash.

Designating a neutral area for your dog to walk will help your dog relax and allows you to teach them something. It can also help to reward or discourage fidgeting. Being able to capture your dog’s attention on a leash will help you even more.

Next, bring treats with you while walking with your dog. Give your dog treats before setting foot on a new trail or teaching a new task. Your dog will then associate learning new tasks with positive experiences, making training easier and more effective. It gives you time to get accustomed to a new trail. You should store a bag of treats in the house or in the car for your pup as you’re training him for walking and other tasks. These can be tasty and have a positive impact on your pet’s overall well-being. Pay attention to the textures of the treats and include them in your training treats.

With these two tips in mind, it is sure to be a successful walk without any distractions. You will use your dog’s training collar and leash effectively. You will be a happy dog owner, and you will be healthier than before, which will result in less stress on your pet.

No matter the type of collar you choose for your dog, it is important to make sure it is safe and effective. Your dog should never be in pain from their collar, so finding the right type and the right fit for your dog can make all the difference. It will make training your dog an easier and enjoyable task, and that leads to a healthier and happier relationship with your dog.

Tractor Supply can make life easier for you & your pets. TSC offers a variety of pet supplies including a wide selection of dog collars, harnesses and leashes for your favorite four-legged friends. Subscribe to our autoship program and receive regular deliveries of food, treats, flea & tick preventatives, supplements and more, all while saving you time and money.