Dog Collars: Get the Right Fit

Why you need a Dog Collar with the Right Fit

A poorly fitting dog collar can cause irritation and discomfort. It can even be dangerous: a too-loose collar can slip off over your dog’s head. If this happens while you are out for a walk, the result might be a frightened dog running around outdoors with no identification.

Since getting a dog collar that fits well is important for your dog, take steps to make the best choice.

How to Measure your Dog for a Collar

1. Measure your dog’s neck. Take a string and place it around your dog’s neck where the collar should be. Mark the length and stretch it out on a ruler, yardstick, or measuring tape to find out how many inches or centimeters around your dog’s neck is.
2. Go collar shopping online or in a pet store. Choose a collar that lists a range of sizes that includes your dog’s.
3. Try the collar on. Adjust the size of the collar until you can slide two fingers under it.
4. Check to see if you can pull the collar off over your dog’s head. If it can easily come off that way, make it a bit tighter until it is both comfortable and safe.
5. Check your collar regularly to make sure that it still fits properly. If your dog gains or loses weight or the collar stretches, you may need to resize.
6. Choose the right collar width. Too wide may cause irritation, and too narrow may cause discomfort during leash walking.

Choose a Collar Color you like

When you go collar shopping, you take time and pick out one that fits your dog well. Whether you choose a designer dog collar, a flashy red one, or basic black, your dog will be much happier-and safer-if the fit is right.

Sue LeBlanc, Social Media director Sylvan & Sons and owner of “brown dog”.