Dog Collar Size Chart – Small to Large Sizes

Last Updated/Info Checked on July 24, 2023 by Linda Michaels

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes and so do their collars. Manufacturers offer a wide range of collar sizes from extra small to extra large for all types of dog physiques. 

These collars are very important as they offer safety to not just your dog but also to other people who might be apprehended by a dog without a leash.

Although most collars are adjustable, it is better to measure your dog’s neck dimensions and get a general idea of what will suit your dog the best. This is to avoid any inconvenience to your dog and save your own time and money.

How Can I Measure My Dog For A Collar?

To determine the appropriate size of a dog collar, gently measure the circumference of the dog’s neck using soft tape. Ensure that the tape measure is positioned where the collar typically rests. 

As a general guideline, it is recommended to slide two fingers between the dog’s neck and the tape measure to allow for a comfortable fit. This ensures that the collar is snug but not too tight. 

If you don’t use the finger measurement, add two inches to the obtained measurement to ensure a proper fit.

How Do I Know What Size Collar To Get My Dog?

Following is a chart showing various breeds and their common neck sizes matched to the collar size most suitable.

Note however that the exact collar size may vary depending on your pup’s age and physique. That is why I recommend measuring your dog’s neck as explained before to get a good idea about what size to order for your dog.

Dog Breeds	Neck Size (in.)	Weight (lbs.)	Collar Size
Afghan Hound	16 – 22	58 – 64	Medium – Large
Airdale Terrier	16 – 22	42 – 46	Medium – Large
Alaskan Malamute	15 – 22	71 – 95	Medium – Large
American Eskimo	16 – 20	18 – 35	Medium – Large
American Eskimo Miniature	13 – 16	15 – 25	Small – Medium
American Indian Dog	16 – 22	30 – 60	Medium – Large
American Pit Bull Terrier	14 – 18	30 – 65	Medium
Australian Kelpie	15 – 21	25 – 45	Medium – Large
Australian Shepherd	16 – 22	35 – 75	Medium – Large
Australian Shepherd Miniature	10 – 14	15 – 35	XSmall – Medium
Basenji	10 – 14	20 – 26	XSmall – Medium
Basset Hound	16 – 22	40 – 60	Medium – Large
Beagle	12 – 18	18 – 30	Small – Medium
Bedlington Terrier	14 – 18	17 – 23	Medium
Belgian Malinois	16 – 20	55 – 75	Medium – Large
Bichon Frise	14 – 18	10 – 14	Medium
Black And Tan Coonhound	19 – 23	70 – 85	Large
Border Collie	14 – 18	27 – 45	Medium
Border Terrier	11 – 13	11 – 16	Small
Boston Terrier	12 – 18	10 – 25	Small – Medium
Boxer	16 – 22	55 – 75	Medium – Large
Britany	14 – 16	30 – 40	Medium
Bull Terrier	12 – 18	50 – 60	Small – Medium
Bull Terrier Miniature	12 – 18	25 – 40	Small – Medium
Bulldog (American)	18 – 24	60 – 120	Medium – Large
Bulldog (English)	18 – 24	49 – 55	Medium – Large
Bulldog (French)	12 – 16	18 – 28	Small – Medium
Cairn Terrier	10 – 16	12 – 16	Small – Medium
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel	10 – 16	13 – 18	Small – Medium
Chihuahua	8 – 14	2 – 6	Small – Medium
Chinese Crested	8 – 11	5 – 10	Small – Small
Chow	18 – 24	45 – 65	Medium – Large
Cocker Spaniel	12 – 18	26 – 35	Small – Medium
Collie	18 – 22	50 – 75	Medium – Large
Dachshund Miniature	8 – 12	9 – 15	Small
Dachshund Standard	16 – 20	16 – 32	Medium – Large
Dalmatian	14 – 20	45 – 65	Medium – Large
Doberman Pinscher	18 – 24	66 – 88	Medium – Large
English Setter	18 – 24	65 – 80	Medium – Large
Fox Terrier	10 – 16	14 – 18	Small – Medium
German Shepherd	18 – 24	50 – 90	Medium – Large
German Shorthair Pointer	15 – 17	40 – 65	Medium – Large
Golden Retriever	16 – 24	55 – 75	Medium – Large
Goldendoodle (Miniature)	14 – 16	30 – 45	Medium
Goldendoodle (Standard)	16 – 22	40 – 50	Medium – Large
Greyhound	14 – 18	55 – 80	Medium
Greyhound Italian	8 – 11	7 – 14	Small
Havanese	8 – 14	7 – 13	Small – Medium
Irish Setter	16 – 22	53 – 70	Medium – Large
Irish Terrier	16 – 20	25 – 27	Medium – Large
Jack Russell Terrier	10 – 14	14 – 18	Small – Medium
King Charles Cavalier	10 – 16	12 – 18	Small – Medium
Labradoodle	14 – 20	50 – 65	Medium – Large
Labradoodle Miniature	12 – 16	30 – 50	Small – Medium
Labrador Retriever	18 – 24	55 – 80	Medium – Large
Lhasa Apso	12 – 16	13 – 15	Small – Medium
Louisiana Catahoula Leopard	16 – 21	50 – 95	Medium – Large
Lurcher	13 – 20	35 – 100	Medium – Large
Maltese	10 – 14	6 – 9	Small – Medium
Old English Sheepdog	18 – 24	60 – 65	Medium – Large
Papillon	8 – 12	9 – 11	Small – Small
Pekingese	12 – 16	8 – 10	Small – Medium
Pembroke Welsh Corgi	14 – 16	25 – 38	Medium
Pharoah Hound	10 – 14	40 – 60	Small – Medium
Pinscher Miniature	8 – 11	8 – 10	Small
Pit Bull	14 – 18	30 – 70	Medium
Pomeranian	10 – 14	9 – 13	Small – Medium
Poodle (Miniature)	10 – 16	15 – 17	Small – Medium
Poodle (Standard)	12 – 18	45 – 70	Small – Medium
Poodle (Toy)	8 – 14	6 – 9	Small – Medium
Portuguese Water Dog	15 – 20	60 – 95	Medium – Large
Pug	12 – 16	14 – 18	Small – Medium
Puggle	12 – 18	15 – 30	Small – Medium
Rat Terrier	13 – 16	11 – 14	Small – Medium
Saluki	13 – 18	40 – 60	Small – Medium
Schipperke	10 – 14	14 – 45	Small – Medium
Schnauzer Miniature	10 – 16	13 – 15	Small – Medium
Schnauzer Standard	14 – 20	30 – 35	Medium – Large
Scottish Terrier	14 – 20	19 – 23	Medium – Large
Shar Pei	16 – 20	35 – 55	Medium – Large
Shetland Sheep Dog “Sheltie”	11 – 18	11 – 24	Small – Medium
Shiba Inu	14 – 17	17 – 23	Medium
Shichon	10 – 18	12 – 14	Small – Medium
Shih Tzu	10 – 14	12 – 16	Small – Medium
Siberian Husky	16 – 22	40 – 55	Medium – Large
Silky Terrier	10 – 14	8 – 10	Small – Medium
Springer Spaniel	14 – 18	49 – 55	Medium
Staffordshire Terrier	14 – 20	50 – 65	Medium – Large
Vizsla	15 – 22	49 – 62	Medium – Large
Weimaraner	16 – 22	55 – 85	Medium – Large
West Highland Terrier	14 – 16	15 – 22	Medium
Wheaten Terrier	18 – 22	32 – 37	Medium – Large
Whippet	13 – 15	30 – 35	Small – Medium
Yorkshire Terrier	6 – 12	4 – 7	Small
Yorkshire Terrier (Teacup)	4 – 8	2 – 3	Small
Akita	20 – 24	70 – 130	Large
Flat-Coated Retriever	18 – 24	60 – 70	Large
Rhodesian Ridgeback	20 – 23	64 – 90	Large

How many collars should a dog have?

Ideally, your dog should have two collars measured for a snug fit.

One should be kept for everyday use while the other one can be used both as a backup option in case your primary collar gets damaged or for special occasions when you want your dog to have a change of look.

But keep in mind that a collar’s main function is your dog’s safety and identification, so get a collar that is comfortable and durable rather than a collar that is fashionable but weak. Never compromise on your dog’s comfort.

At What Age Can You Use A Shock Collar On Your Dog?

The recommended age for a shock collar to be used on dogs is 6 months. Although some professional trainers may use a collar on their dogs around 14-15 weeks of age, you should wait till 6 months of age for your Pooch’s safety.

How Long Can A Dog Wear A Collar?

On average, dogs can safely wear a collar for 8-10 hours per day without experiencing skin problems. However, it’s important to periodically remove the collar after every few hours of wear. This minimizes the risk of skin irritation and damage from collar overuse.

Are Wide Collars Better?

A broader dog collar provides greater neck support and is suitable for dogs that are strong and tend to pull during walks. It helps distribute pressure evenly across the neck, minimizing the risk of injury. 

However, for smaller dogs, a wide dog collar may not be as suitable as it can be heavier in proportion to their size.

It is better to try different collars on your dog before settling in for one permanently. Look for any signs of discomfort like a change in breathing pattern or slow movements. 

How To Introduce A Dog To A Collar?

Introducing your dog to a collar can be tricky but it can be done gradually and with patience. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you:

1. Start by allowing your dog to sniff and investigate the collar before putting it on. This helps the dog to become familiar with its scent and texture.

2. Hold the collar open and offer your dog treats or praise to create a positive association with the collar. Repeat this process several times, gradually bringing the collar closer to your dog’s neck without fastening it. This is positive reinforcement.

3. Once your dog is comfortable with the collar near its neck, gently fasten it for a brief period. Immediately reward them with treats, play, or praise to reinforce positive behavior.

4. Gradually increase the duration your dog wears the collar, starting with short intervals and gradually extending the time. Monitor the comfort level and remove the collar if any signs of distress or discomfort occur.

5. During collar-wearing sessions, engage your dog in enjoyable activities such as play or training to create positive experiences associated with wearing the collar.

6. Practice putting the collar on and taking it off multiple times throughout the day, ensuring your dog remains calm and relaxed during the process.

Remember, every dog is unique, and the time it takes for them to become accustomed to wearing a collar may vary. Patience, positive reinforcement, and gradual exposure are key to successful collar introduction.

Types Of Dog Collars

Dog collars have different types, here are some common types that you should know: 

Flat Collar

This is the most basic and commonly used collar. It is a simple strip of material with a buckle or snap closure. Flat collars are suitable for everyday use and attaching identification tags. They are also the cheapest.

Martingale Collar

Also known as a limited-slip collar, it is designed to provide more control without choking the dog. It has a section that can tighten when the dog pulls but loosens when there is no tension. It stops the dog from pulling on the collar.

Harness

Harnesses wrap around the dog’s body and distribute the pulling force more evenly, reducing strain on the neck. They are particularly beneficial for dogs prone to pulling or respiratory issues.

Choke Chain

This type of collar is made of metal links that tighten when the leash is pulled. Choke chains should only be used under the guidance of a professional trainer as improper use can cause injury or discomfort to the dog.

So I will not recommend this to first-timers. 

Prong Collars

Also known as pinch collars, they have prongs evenly spaced around the collar. Prong collars just like choke chains are designed to provide more control but should be used with caution and under the guidance of a professional trainer..

Head Collar

These collars fit over the dog’s muzzle and behind the ears, providing control by gently steering the dog’s head. Head collars can be effective for managing to pull or controlling considerably strong dogs.

Electronic Collars (E-collar)

Also known as remote training collars or shock collars, they are designed to deliver electronic stimulation (shock) as a training aid.

E-collars can be very effective for various types of dog training but should be used under professional guidance and with care.

It’s important to choose a collar that suits your dog’s size, breed, and specific needs. Consider consulting with a veterinarian or professional trainer to determine the most appropriate collar type for your dog.

FAQs

These are some related questions people mostly ask about collar sizes.

Dog Collar Size Chart – Conclusion

Dog collar sizes vary based on the breed and individual physique of your dog. Manufacturers offer collars in a range of sizes, from extra small to extra large.

It’s crucial to measure your dog’s neck size accurately before ordering a collar to ensure a proper fit and prevent any discomfort.