Best collar to buy for your dog
It’s pretty likely that your dog will go through a few different collars throughout their life. Not only do they change in size from puppyhood to adulthood, but dogs are often creatures who like to get down and dirty in the great outdoors, so some natural wear and tear is bound to happen.
There are plenty of considerations to take into account when buying the perfect collar for your dog, no matter their size, breed or activity level.
From classic leather collars to padded nylon options, it can be difficult to choose from the wide selection available. The most important thing is that the collar should be as functional and comfortable as possible for your canine companion.
Features of dog collars
Material
Dog collars come in different shapes, sizes and materials. The most common materials are real leather, faux leather and nylon.
Flat vs. rolled dog collars
Dog collars are either designed as thin, flat straps or as rolled, padded straps. Some dogs may find a flat collar more comfortable, but a rolled collar is often more durable and heavy-duty.
Buckle vs. snap collar fasteners
If you need to be able to remove the collar quickly, a snap fastener may be preferable. However, some people like the look of a traditional tongue buckle on their dog’s collar. Even with a snap fastener, most dog collars are somewhat adjustable in size.
Sizing
Measure your dog’s neck with a measuring tape to determine its diameter. This gives you an accurate size indication when you’re shopping for a dog collar. You should be able to comfortably fit two fingers inside the dog’s collar to ensure it isn’t too tight.
D-ring size and strength
It’s usually pretty easy to restrain small breeds with a lighter collar and leash. However, larger dogs or more energetic breeds often require a sturdier solution. Make sure the D-ring of the collar — the metal or brass loop where you attach the leash or dog tether — is durable enough to withstand your dog’s size and weight.
Best dog collars
Best collar for small dogs
Frisco Solid Nylon Slip-On Martingale Dog Collar: available at Chewy
Our take: This martingale collar is perfect for training small dogs to walk nicely on the leash and is adjustable for maximum comfort.
What we like: The nylon webbing material is highly durable, providing the collar with a long lifespan.
What we dislike: Some users report that the colors can run over time, resulting in staining on the dog’s fur.
Best collar for medium dogs
Blueberry Pet Classic Solid Nylon Dog Collar: available at Chewy and Amazon
Our take: A sturdy nylon collar with a snap-style fastener for easy removal.
What we like: The D-ring is chrome-coated, making it strong enough to resist leash-pullers while out on walks.
What we dislike: The measurements include the buckle and clasp, so you may need to order a size up and adjust the size down so the collar isn’t too small for your dog.
Best collar for large dogs
OneTigris Nylon Military Dog Collar: available at Chewy and Amazon
Our take: A flat-style collar built with padding inside to provide durability and comfort for larger breeds.
What we like: The large size fits a neck size from 17.7 inches up to 20.9 inches — ample room for large dog breeds.
What we dislike: Rough play and outdoor adventures can take their toll on this collar. Some users report fraying and damage when worn by energetic dogs.
Best collar for puppies
Top Paw Gunmetal Adjustable Dog Collar: available at Petsmart
Our take: A nylon collar that’s comfortable enough for puppies and is adjustable as they grow.
What we like: The extra-small size (8–12-inch neck) fits chihuahuas and Yorkshire terriers, so it will be suitable for puppies of most breeds.
What we dislike: It may fray easily, but this shouldn’t be too much of a concern for puppies who are likely to grow quickly and need to upgrade in size.
Best synthetic dog collar
Black Rhino The Comfort Collar: available at Amazon
Our take: Highly durable and comfortable collar option for dogs of all sizes.
What we like: The neoprene padding on the inside means your dog will be comfortable even when pulling on a leash or during rough play.
What we dislike: Although the strap is comfortable, some users report that the buckle design can cause irritation on the skin of dogs with thinner coats.
Best leather dog collar
Logical Leather Padded Dog Collar: available at Chewy and Amazon
Our take: This collar is made from full-grain leather with padding stitched in for comfort.
What we like: The leather is water-resistant and easy to clean.
What we dislike: While the leather strap is strong, stronger dogs may be capable of breaking the clasp.
Best weatherproof dog collar
Bond Pet Products Durable Dog Collar: available at Amazon
Our take: A collar made from soft but durable rubber to make it completely weatherproof.
What we like: The rubber is made from soft material, so it won’t catch on your dog’s fur or cause discomfort while wet.
What we dislike: Despite the rubber material, dogs with sensitive skin may still end up with irritation.
Most comfortable dog collar
Soft Touch Collars Leather Padded Dog Collar: available at Chewy
Our take: Made with padded sheepskin leather for a soft finish that won’t irritate your dog’s skin and is supple to wear.
What we like: The adjustable buckle and D-rings are made from brass for a durable leash attachment.
What we dislike: The sizing recommendations might be a little off. Some users recommend ordering a size down to make sure the collar won’t be too big for your dog.
Best collar for active dogs
ROAM Premium Dog Collar: available at Amazon
Our take: The nylon material is double layered on this collar for extra durability.
What we like: The hardware of the collar is rustproof for improved weather resistance.
What we dislike: The D-ring for your dog’s name tag is not as durable as the rest of the collar, which may result in a lost tag.
Lauren Farrell is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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