How To Choose The Right Dog Collar For Your Breed

Every dog is unique—especially when it comes to size, shape, and energy level. That’s why one collar style doesn’t fit all. From tiny Chihuahuas to adventurous Labradors, the right collar keeps your pup safe, comfortable, and looking their best. Here’s how to choose the perfect collar for your dog’s breed (and personality).

Who This Is For

This guide is for:

• New dog parents shopping for their first collar

• Owners looking to upgrade to a better fit or material

• Anyone wondering what collar works best for their dog’s breed or body type

How Breed Affects Collar Fit and Function

Your dog’s breed plays a big role in finding the right collar. Consider:

• Neck shape and size (wide vs slender)

• Coat type (short vs fluffy)

• Activity level (lap dog vs athlete)

Choosing based on breed ensures comfort, safety, and control—without constant adjusting or rubbing.

Best Collar Styles by Dog Type

1. Small Breeds (e.g., Yorkies, Shih Tzus, Pomeranians)

• Opt for lightweight, narrow-width collars (⅝") that won’t weigh them down.

• Soft materials like velvet are gentle on delicate necks.

• Avoid bulky or heavy hardware.
  👉 Shop our lightweight Dog Collars—made with comfort and tiny pups in mind.

2. Medium Breeds (e.g., Corgis, French Bulldogs, Beagles)

• Choose adjustable collars that can handle daily walks and playtime.

• Look for reinforced stitching and mid-weight hardware.

• Medium-width (⅝"–1") collars balance style and durability.
  👉 Pair with our hands-free rope leash for easy, stylish outings.

3. Large Breeds (e.g., Labradors, Boxers, Shepherds)

• Go for wide collars (1”) to distribute pressure evenly.

• Durable materials like vegan leather or waterproof all-weather styles are ideal.

• Ensure secure metal hardware and strong D-rings.
  👉 Our waterproof collars feature a reinforced nylon core for safety and strength.

4. Active or Outdoor Dogs (e.g., Huskies, Border Collies, Retrievers)

• Choose durable, weather-resistant materials.

• Waterproof or vegan leather collars are best for hikes, rain, and mud.

• Quick-drying materials help prevent odor and irritation.
  👉 Explore our waterproof collection for adventure-ready gear.

5. Sensitive or Anxious Dogs

• Avoid stiff or restrictive collars.

• Go for soft, padded options like velvet that feel comfortable against the neck.

• Combine with a harness for gentle control and added security.
  👉 Pair our adjustable collars with a no-pull harness for comfort and confidence.

Measuring for the Perfect Fit

• Use a soft tape measure around the base of your dog’s neck.

• Add two fingers of space for comfort.

• Check the fit weekly—especially for growing pups.
  📏 Need help? We have a full sizing guide attached to each collar!

FAQs

Q: What type of collar is best for my dog?
A: It depends on breed and lifestyle. Small dogs need lightweight collars, while active or large breeds need durable, wider options.

Q: Can I use the same collar for all breeds?
A: No. Fit and comfort vary by breed. Always choose the right size and material for your dog’s body type.

Q: How often should I check my dog’s collar fit?
A: Weekly! Dogs gain or lose weight and coat thickness changes with the seasons.

Written by Christine Abdelmalek
Founder and SHE-E-O of Pink Papyrus
Obsessed with crafting dog accessories—beautiful, brilliantly functional, and made with love.