Dog Collar Size Guide
Choosing the right size collar is important for your dog's comfort and safety. Follow this guide to find the perfect fit!
How to Measure Your Dog's Neck
What You'll Need
- Soft measuring tape (or string + ruler)
- Your dog
- A treat for cooperation!
Step-by-Step
Position the tape around your dog's neck where their collar normally sits
- This is typically the widest part of the neck
- Just above the shoulders
- Not too high (throat area) or too low (chest)
Check the fit
- Tape should be snug but comfortable
- You should fit two fingers between tape and neck
- Not tight (dog can breathe easily)
- Not loose (collar won't slip off)
Note the measurement
- Record in centimeters or inches
- Round up if between sizes
Using String Instead?
If you don't have a measuring tape:
- Wrap string around dog's neck (two-finger rule)
- Mark where string meets
- Lay flat and measure with a ruler
Our Size Chart
| Size | Neck Circumference (cm) | Neck Circumference (inches) | Typical Breeds |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 20-25cm | 8-10" | Chihuahua, Toy Poodle, Yorkshire Terrier, Papillon |
| S | 25-35cm | 10-14" | Jack Russell, Miniature Poodle, Shih Tzu, Pug, Dachshund |
| M | 35-45cm | 14-18" | Cocker Spaniel, Beagle, Border Collie, Springer Spaniel |
Important: Breed suggestions are guidelines only. Always measure your individual dog!
The Two-Finger Rule
✅ Perfect fit: You can comfortably fit two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck
❌ Too tight: Can't fit two fingers, dog coughs, difficulty swallowing
❌ Too loose: More than two fingers, collar spins around, could slip over head
Puppies & Growing Dogs
Adjustable Range
Our collars are adjustable within each size range:
- XS adjusts from 20-25cm
- S adjusts from 25-35cm
- M adjusts from 35-45cm
For Puppies
- Measure now and allow room for growth
- Recheck fit every 2-4 weeks during growth spurts
- Order next size up if your puppy is near the upper limit
When to Size Up
Replace collar when:
- ❌ At maximum adjustment and still tight
- ❌ Can't fit two fingers underneath
- ❌ Leaving marks on fur/skin
- ❌ Dog seems uncomfortable
Special Considerations
Fluffy Breeds
Dogs with thick fur (Huskies, Samoyeds, Pomeranians):
- Part the fur to measure skin level
- Check fit regularly - fur can compress over time
- May need larger size than expected
Greyhounds & Sighthounds
Narrow heads, wide necks:
- Measure the widest part of neck
- Check collar can't slip over ears
- Consider next size up for security
Brachycephalic Breeds
Flat-faced dogs (Pugs, Bulldogs, French Bulldogs):
- Be extra careful not to measure too tight
- Leave more room for comfortable breathing
- Check regularly as these breeds can be sensitive
Waterproof Collar Notes
Our waterproof collars:
- Won't shrink when wet
- Won't stretch over time
- Maintain size through washing
- PVC coated nylon webbing stays consistent
This means your size stays accurate long-term!
Still Unsure?
Between Two Sizes?
Always size up. It's safer for your dog and you can adjust tighter, but can't make a too-small collar bigger.
Unusual Neck Size?
Some dogs don't fit standard sizing:
- Contact us: [your.email@puplets.co.uk]
- We'll help you find the best fit
- Custom sizing may be available
Need Help Measuring?
- Email us your dog's breed, age, and approximate weight
- We'll suggest the most likely size
- Include a photo for best guidance
Check the Fit After Purchase
When your collar arrives:
Fit it on your dog
Check the two-finger rule
Watch your dog move around
- Collar shouldn't slide over ears
- Shouldn't choke or restrict breathing
- Should sit comfortably at base of neck
Not quite right?
- See our Returns Policy
- 14-day return window
- Exchange for different size
Safety Reminder
⚠️ Never leave a collar on unsupervised for extended periods (especially during sleep or play with other dogs)
⚠️ Check fit weekly - dogs' necks can change with weight, fur, or growth
⚠️ Replace damaged collars immediately - wear and tear affects safety
Questions?
Still not sure about sizing? We're here to help!
Email: [your.email@puplets.co.uk]
Include:
- Your dog's breed and age
- Neck measurement
- Any special concerns
We usually respond within a few hours!