Choosing the right collar size is important for your dog’s comfort and safety. A collar that is too tight can cause irritation, while a collar that is too loose may slip off during walks.

Follow this simple step-by-step guide to measure your dog’s neck correctly and find the perfect fit.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

You will need:   

• A soft measuring tape (like a sewing tape)
• A piece of string if you don’t have a measuring tape
• A ruler to measure the string afterward

Soft measuring tapes work best because they easily wrap around your dog’s neck.

Step 2: Find the Right Spot on Your Dog’s Neck

The collar should sit around the base of your dog’s neck, not high up near the head.

Look for the spot where your dog naturally wears a collar.

For most dogs, this is:

• just above the shoulders
• below the jawline

Step 3: Wrap the Measuring Tape Around the Neck

Gently wrap the tape around your dog’s neck where the collar will sit.

Make sure the tape is:

• snug but not tight
• lying flat against the fur
• not twisted

Write down the measurement in inches or centimeters.

Step 4: Use the Two-Finger Rule

A properly fitted collar should allow two fingers to fit comfortably between the collar and your dog’s neck.

This ensures the collar is:

✔ secure
✔ comfortable
✔ not too tight

If you cannot slide two fingers under the collar, it is too tight.

Step 5: Check the Collar Size Range

Dog collars usually come in adjustable size ranges.

Example:

Small: 10–14 inches
Medium: 14–18 inches
Large: 18–24 inches

Choose a collar where your dog’s neck measurement falls near the middle of the size range.

This allows room for adjustment.

Step 6: Consider Your Dog’s Breed and Fur

Dogs with thick fur may need a slightly larger collar size.

For example:

• fluffy breeds
• double-coated dogs
• dogs with long hair

Make sure the collar fits comfortably over the fur without compressing it too much.

Step 7: Check the Fit After Putting the Collar On

Once the collar is on your dog:

✔ You should fit two fingers under the collar
✔ The collar should not slide over the dog’s head
✔ Your dog should move comfortably

Always check the fit after your dog has worn it for a few minutes.

Find the Perfect Collar for Your Pup

Now that you know how to measure your dog’s neck, you’re ready to choose the perfect collar.

At The Squeaky Coco, we offer stylish and comfortable collar and leash sets designed for dogs of all sizes.

Shop This Look

Pink Plaid Personalized Dog Collar & Leash Set
Stylish, comfortable, and customizable with your dog’s name and phone number engraved on the collar.

👉 Shop Now at The Squeaky Coco

Frequently Asked Questions

How tight should a dog collar be?
A dog collar should be snug but not tight. You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between your dog’s neck and the collar.

Can puppies wear collars?
Yes, puppies can wear lightweight collars once they are comfortable wearing them. Always make sure the collar fits properly and check the fit as your puppy grows.

💡 Helpful Tip

If your dog is between sizes, choose the larger size so the collar can be adjusted for the best fit.