How to Measure a Dog’s Neck for a Collar

Choosing the right collar size is much more important than many dog owners realise. A collar that fits properly is comfortable and safe for your dog to wear every day. While many people simply measure an existing collar and order the same size, this is actually one of the most common reasons for receiving a collar that doesn’t fit as expected.

The correct way to size a collar is always to measure your dog’s neck, not the collar they already wear. Different collars are made from different materials and have different thicknesses. The thick collars have a smaller internal circumference than a thin collar of exactly the same measured length.

For this reason, it is always important to follow the sizing instructions for the specific collar model you want to buy. A thick padded collar may require different measurements than a slim dog collar.

Measure Your Dog’s Neck, Not the Collar

To measure correctly, use a soft tailor’s measuring tape and wrap it around your dog’s neck where the collar would normally sit.

The tape should lie flat against the coat, but it should never be pulled tightly. The goal is to measure your dog’s natural neck circumference, not to compress the muscles or fur. Once you have this measurement, add 3–6 cm (depends on the model of the collar). This final number is the collar length you should look for, and ideally it should correspond to the middle hole of the collar.

A Collar Should Never Be Too Tight

A properly fitted collar should stay securely on the dog without restricting movement or causing discomfort. One of the easiest ways to check the fit is the familiar two-finger rule: you should be able to slide two fingers comfortably between the collar and your dog’s neck.

A collar that is too tight can do much more than simply feel uncomfortable. It may interfere with normal breathing, restrict the natural expansion of the neck muscles during exercise and place unnecessary pressure on soft tissues and blood vessels. Even if a dog appears comfortable while standing still, a collar that is too tight can become restrictive during walks, play or training.

On the other hand, a collar that is excessively loose may rotate, catch on objects or, in some cases, allow the dog to slip out of it. The correct fit is therefore a balance between security and comfort.

Which Hole Should You Choose?

In most cases, the ideal collar size is one where your dog’s measurement falls close to the middle hole. This gives enough adjustment in both directions if your dog gains or loses a little weight.

However, there are situations where choosing a little extra adjustment makes sense. If your puppy is still growing, or if your dog develops a very thick winter coat, it is often better to select a size where the desired measurement is closer to the first hole. This leaves additional holes available to loosen the collar later as needed.

Thinking about seasonal coat changes and future growth when choosing a collar can help it remain comfortable for much longer.

What If Your Dog Is Between Sizes?

Not every dog fits neatly into standard sizing. Mixed breeds, dogs with particularly broad necks or narrow heads, and many working or sighthound breeds often fall between standard collar sizes.

This is exactly why custom-sized collars exist. At Lazypony workshop, every leather dog collar can be made to your dog’s individual measurements at no additional cost. Simply measure your dog’s neck, add the recommended allowance for your chosen model and include a note with your order, for example:

“I need a collar 37 cm long to the middle hole.”

A collar that is “almost the right size” may seem like a small compromise, but even a slight mismatch can affect your dog’s health over time. Because collars are worn so frequently, the correct size is far more important than many people realise. A well-fitting collar distributes pressure more evenly, allows your dog to move naturally and helps ensure that everyday walks remain comfortable for years to come. Lazypony Saddlery Workshop