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Getting the right collar size for your dog might seem obvious - but you'd be surprised how many people get it wrong. We hear it all the time: customers measuring their dog's old collar instead of their actual neck, or simply guessing based on their dog's size.
The good news? Measuring your dog for a collar properly takes less than a minute and requires just one simple tool. Here's everything you need to know to get the perfect fit.
A soft measuring tape is ideal - the kind used for sewing works perfectly. If you don't have one to hand, you can use a piece of string and then measure it against a ruler afterwards.
Important: Don't use a rigid tape measure or anything inflexible. You need something that can follow the natural curve of your dog's neck comfortably.
Step 1: Position your dog Have your dog standing in a relaxed position. Sitting or lying down can give you an inaccurate measurement.
Step 2: Decide where the collar will sit Most collars sit comfortably in the middle of the neck, a few centimetres below the head. This is where you should measure - not high up behind the ears, and not low down near the shoulders.
Step 3: Wrap the measuring tape Place the soft measuring tape around your dog's neck where you'd like the collar to sit. Pull it snug - not tight, just snug enough to follow the contour of the neck without any slack.
Step 4: Check for breathing room Here's the crucial bit: you should be able to comfortably fit two fingers (or about 3cm) between the measuring tape and your dog's neck. This ensures the collar won't be too tight when fitted.
Step 5: Note your measurement Record the measurement in centimetres. This is your dog's actual neck size.
Measuring an old collar instead of the neck This is the most common error we see. Your dog's old collar might be worn, stretched, or simply fitted incorrectly in the first place. Always measure the dog's actual neck, not their existing collar.
Measuring too tight Some people pull the tape measure tight, thinking they need an exact measurement. Remember: you need to add breathing room. The measurement should be snug but comfortable, with space for two fingers.
Guessing based on breed or weight "My dog's a Labrador, so probably a Large?" Unfortunately, it doesn't work that way. Even within the same breed, neck sizes can vary significantly. Some Labs have thicker necks than others; some carry more weight. Always measure.
Measuring in the wrong place Measuring too high (near the head) or too low (near the shoulders) will give you inaccurate results. Aim for the middle of the neck where the collar will naturally rest.
If your dog's neck measurement falls between two sizes, always choose the larger size. Here's why:
Buckle collars with adjustment holes give you flexibility. If you buy a size up, you can adjust it down to fit perfectly. If you buy a size down, you're stuck - you can't make a collar longer.
Example: Your dog's neck measures 35cm. The collar options are:
Choose Medium. Your dog's measurement is right at the top of the Small range, which leaves no room for adjustment. The Medium will fit perfectly and give you room to tighten if needed.
Once your collar arrives and you've fitted it, do the two-finger test:
Slip two fingers (your index and middle finger) between the collar and your dog's neck. They should slide in comfortably without force, but there shouldn't be excessive room.
You should also check that the collar can't slip over your dog's head when fastened. If it can, it's too loose and needs adjusting.
Because we test every collar with our own dogs - Willow and Lucky - we know exactly how each one fits. Their completely different sizes (Labrador versus Jack Russell) mean we've experienced the full range of fitting challenges.
When you're shopping with us:
Each collar listing clearly states its size range, so you'll know exactly whether it'll suit your dog before you order.
A correctly fitted collar is about more than just comfort (though that's important). A collar that's too loose can slip off, leaving your dog without identification if they get lost. A collar that's too tight can cause discomfort or restrict breathing.
With our free UK delivery and no minimum order, there's no pressure to rush your decision. Take the time to measure properly, check the sizing guide and choose with confidence.
Measuring your dog for a collar takes less time than making a cup of tea, but it makes all the difference to your dog's comfort and safety. Don't rely on guesswork, old collars, or breed assumptions - spend that one minute with a measuring tape and get it right.
If you're ever unsure about sizing or need advice on which collar might suit your dog best, just get in touch. We're here to help, and we're always happy to share what we've learnt from 20 years of collaring our own dogs.
Your dog deserves a collar that fits properly. With the right measurement and the right size choice, that's exactly what they'll get. Check our range of dog collars here.
