Dog collars are extremely important for identifying and controlling your dog, and they can even be great fashion items. However, collars need to fit snugly on your pet so they cannot slip off or become caught on other objects. This raises an important safety question: How tight should a dog collar be?
How To Tell if a Dog Collar Is Too Tight
A dog collar should be tight enough to fit snugly, but if it’s too tight, it can cause painful chafing, difficulty breathing, or even life-threatening injuries.
One commonly accepted method for telling if a collar is too tight is to follow the “two-finger rule.” If you can comfortably fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck, it is not too tight. Conversely, if you can fit more than two fingers, the collar may be too loose.
If your puppy is still growing, be sure to check the tightness of its collar regularly. Depending on the breed, some dogs will not finish growing until after 24 months. For breeds that grow very quickly, such as retrievers or spaniels, a tight collar can rapidly become a dangerous hazard.
How To Measure a Dog Collar
To get the right measurement for a dog collar, use a cloth measuring tape to get the circumference of your dog’s neck. Gently wrap the measuring tape snugly around the neck where the collar would be, then slip two fingers between the measuring tape and the dog’s neck to get the final measurement. Any side-release buckle collar will use this measurement.
Certain martingale-style collars will also require you to take a head measurement. Measure from the point just in front of the ears down and around to the area under the chin at the top of the throat to get the circumference. When purchasing a martingale-style collar, be sure it can slip over this head circumference.
How To Choose the Right Collar for Your Dog
Dog collars come in different types and styles, and each one has its own ways of addressing how tight a dog collar should be. Understanding these types will help you choose the right one for your dog.
Flat Collar
A flat dog collar is the standard style you will see on most canine companions. They feature buckles or plastic quick-release snaps for easy attachment. Use the standard “two-finger rule” to get the right size for a flat collar.
Limited-Slip Collar
Limited-slip collars, sometimes known as martingale collars, are designed with certain dog breeds in mind. Those with narrow heads, like greyhounds or whippets, can slip out of a standard collar with relative ease. Keep your dog’s head circumference in mind when choosing a limited-slip collar.
Head Collar
Head collars feature one strap that fits around the dog’s neck and another strap that fits around the muzzle. This type of collar will grant you a greater deal of control and prevent energetic dogs from pulling at the leash with the full weight of their body. An exact fit is important for this type of collar, so do not hesitate to consult with a dog trainer or other expert when choosing a head collar for your pet.
Flea Collar
While it does not refer to a style or design of collar, flea collars are a type of collar you might consider if your dog has certain needs. The function of a flea collar is to repel pests by releasing active ingredients as the dog moves around throughout the day.
Find the Right Dog Collar With BaxterBoo
Even when you know how tight a dog collar should be, there’s still the challenge of finding the right one for your unique pet. At BaxterBoo, we are your one-stop shop for all dog care needs. Browse our catalog for collars, accessories, and so much more.
