How to properly fit a dog collar. Guide
Ensuring your dog’s collar fits correctly is very important. It is vital for dog comfort and safety. A properly fitted dog collar not only prevents escape and injury, but makes daily walks safe and fun. This guide for dog owners will help you measure, adjust, and select the perfect collar for your beloved dog.
Fit the collar correctly
A bad-fitting collar can lead to various issues:
– If the collar is too tight it can cause breathing difficulties and skin damage.
– If the collar is too loose it may slip off, increasing the risk of the dog getting lost or injured.
Dog’s neck size can change from season to season. In the winter you may need to loose the collar a bit, in the summer to tight it. Also your dog can loose or gain weight. Regularly checking and adjusting your dog’s collar ensures their safety and comfort.
Measuring your dog’s neck
Correct measurement is the first step to a well-fitted collar. Every dog is different and there is no “breed standard” for collars/harnesses size. For a proper fit, measure your dog’s neck with a cloth seamstress tape measure.
– Pull the tape snug but not tight where the collar would normally sit;
– Add 3-4 cm (1,5 – 2″) to this length. It is your dogs neck size.
– Choose the size, where this length is approximately in the middle hole of the collar.
For example, your dog’s neck circumference is 33 cm. Add another 4 cm. 37 cm is approximately the middle hole in a size S collar. This means you need size S. If your dog is still growing or covered with thick fur in winter, choose a size where the desired length is closer to the first hole.
Some dogs can have the size, that will not fit any regular size. Our Lazypony workshop can make literally any custom size and it will not change the price! We want the collar fits your dog perfectly!
Consider growth
For puppies or dogs that gain weight check the fit weekly as they can grow rapidly.
Adjustment the dog collar
Tighten or loosen the collar to achieve a snug fit, allowing two fingers to slide underneath. Make sure that the collar doesn’t restrict movement or cause discomfort.
Choosing the right collar type for your dog
Different collars serve various purposes:
– Classic collars, like Dublin collar Lazypony, ideal for everyday walks and identification tags.
– Martingale collars are designed for dogs with narrow heads, preventing them from slipping out. But be careful! In some countries, like Spain, there are not allowed!
Choose the material of the dog collar
Leather collars are durable and stylish, suitable for most dogs. Leather will fit your dog’s neck shape better and better with time because it “melts” to the shape of it. Leather is strong material and will last you for many years, but it needs care to stay like that.
Nylon dog collars are good chose for swimming and wet weather. It is very easy to take care of them and the price is lower that for the leather collar. But be carefull about the quality of the nylon what you chose the collar! Cheap and bad-quality nylon is easy to break and rub the skin of your dog.
Useful tips for dog owners
Regular check: Check the collar for wear and tear, replacing it if damaged.
Cleanliness: Keep the collar clean to prevent skin irritation and collar’s material damage and roteness.
Supervision: Remove the collar during playtime with other dogs to avoid accidents. Newer leave a dog for a long time alone in any type of the collar and never leave it alone in Martingale collar.
Identification: Always attach an ID tag with your contact information.
A properly fitted collar is essential for your dog’s safety and comfort. By measuring accurately, choosing the right type, and maintaining it well, you ensure your furry friend’s well-being. For high-quality, handcrafted dog collars, explore our collection at Lazypony.es. Our collars are designed with your dog’s comfort and style in mind.
Lazypony saddlery workshop – custom, handcrafted dog equipment from Spain.