🐾 Collar Fit & Style Guide

Choosing the right collar isn’t just about what looks good — it’s about keeping your dog safe, comfortable, and under control on every walk.

Here you’ll find everything you need to know about flat buckle collars and martingale collars — what makes them different, when to use each type, and how to measure for the perfect fit.

We’ve also added care tips to help your collar last longer and stay safe to use.

Flat Buckle Collars

What They Are:
Flat buckle collars are the most common everyday style. They fasten with a traditional buckle or snap and sit comfortably around your dog’s neck, making them ideal for daily wear and ID tags.

Best For:

  • Everyday use

  • Dogs that walk calmly on a leash

  • Puppies or dogs comfortable in collars

Pros:

  • Easy to put on and take off

  • Comfortable and lightweight for daily wear

  • Ideal for holding ID tags

  • Wide variety of styles and materials

Cons:

  • Can slip off easily if your dog has a narrow head or tends to back out of collars

  • Offers less control for strong pullers or reactive dogs

  • May cause neck strain or pressure if your dog pulls frequently

  • Not ideal for training or leash correction

  • Can lead to hair breakage or matting if worn constantly

  • Plastic hardware can crack or fail under tension — choose metal hardware for stronger dogs

Martingale Collars

What They Are:
Martingale collars tighten slightly when pulled, providing gentle control without choking. Designed for dogs that can slip out of standard collars, the limited tightening action helps keep them secure without discomfort.

Best For:

  • Dogs that back out of standard collars

  • Dogs with slim necks or thick fur

  • Training or leash control situations

Pros:

  • Prevents slipping without choking

  • Offers more control during walks

  • Tightens evenly for gentle correction

  • Ideal for training or nervous dogs

Cons:

  • Should not be worn unsupervised, as the tightening loop can catch on objects

  • Must be fitted correctly — too tight can restrict breathing or cause discomfort

  • Not suitable for off-leash play or indoor wear

  • Offers a smaller adjustment range than standard buckle collars

  • Plastic or low-quality hardware can fail under tension — always choose strong, durable materials

How to Measure for the Perfect Fit

Measuring for a Flat Buckle Collar

 

If you already have a collar that fits well:

  1. Open the buckle and lay the collar flat.

  2. Using a measuring tape, measure from the female end of the buckle to the start of the male end (where it clicks in).

  3. Do not measure the full length of the collar.

  4. This measurement is your dog’s collar size.

If you don’t have a collar that lays flat:

  1. Use a soft measuring tape.

  2. Wrap it around your dog’s neck where the collar normally sits.

  3. Add 2 finger width for comfort (so it’s snug but not tight).

  4. This is your dog’s correct collar size.

Measuring for a Martingale Collar

 

You’ll need two measurements: the neck and the widest part of the head.

  1. Use a soft measuring tape.

  2. Measure around your dog’s neck where the collar will rest. You should be able to fit two fingers between the tape and your dog’s neck.

  3. Measure the widest part of your dog’s head (just in front of the ears).

  4. The collar should easily slip over the head but rest comfortably on the neck.

  5. When adjusted properly, it should tighten snugly but not tightly when pulled — always allowing room for two fingers.

Collar Care & Safety Inspection

Proper care and regular checks ensure your dog’s collar stays safe and comfortable.

Before Every Walk

  • Inspect the hardware: Make sure buckles, sliders, and D-rings are secure and free from cracks or rust.

  • Check stitching: Look for fraying or loose threads. Replace the collar if stitching appears weak.

  • Confirm the fit: Ensure you can slip two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck.

Cleaning & Maintenance

  • Hand wash with mild soap and warm water as needed. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry.

  • Avoid harsh chemicals, bleach, or high heat.

  • For waterproof materials (like Biothane), simply wipe clean with a damp cloth.

Safety Tips

  • Never leave a martingale collar on an unsupervised dog.

  • Retire any collar showing signs of damage, cracking, or material fatigue.

  • Regular maintenance keeps your dog’s gear reliable and safe for every adventure.