How Tight Should A Dog Collar Be?

So, how tight should a dog collar be?

Dog collars are available in a wide variety of styles, materials and colours but remember, the most important aspect when selecting your dog’s collar is to ensure that it fits correctly and is secure.

Measure the circumference of your dog’s neck; you can use a piece of string or ribbon if you don’t have a tape measure. To ensure the dog collar isn’t too tight, you’ll need to add about one to three inches (depending upon your dog’s size) to this measurement to find the correct length dog collar.

In addition to the length, the width of your dog’s collar is also important. A dog collar that is too wide for your dog may rub and cause discomfort, while a collar that is too narrow may not be comfortable when you walk your dog on a lead.  Bigger/stronger dogs as well as dogs that tend to pull will require a wider collar.

Use the “two finger” rule: Once the dog’s collar is fastened, you should be able to easily slide two fingers under the collar. When you slide the width of your two fingers between the collar and neck, the collar should feel snug, but not tight. You should not be able to slide your dog’s collar off his head, or your dog may end up slipping his collar.

Now that you know how tight your dog’s collar should be and you’ve found the correct collar size, remember to check periodically to ensure your dog’s collar is in good repair and still fits correctly.

The law on dog identity tags

Now you the right collar for your dog and it’s fitted correctly you need to ensure that it has an identity tag attached. The Control of Dogs Order 1992 states that any dog in a public place must wear a collar with the name and address (including postcode) of the owner engraved or written on it, or engraved on a tag. Your telephone number is optional but we recommend it.