An essential part of your dog’s wardrobe is its collar. Whether they wear it just for walkies or keep it on all day, a collar must be comfortable for your pup. And stylish if you think the same as us!
But it is also true that dogs grow quickly, especially from puppyhood to being a full-grown ball of fluff and love. So, you must ensure your dog always has a collar that fits well and comfortably. Once they have grown, you can choose a high-quality collar built to last, but you must ensure it fits properly in the first place. To help you find the perfect fitting collar for your pup, we have compiled a comprehensive guide on telling if your dog’s collar is too small. Plus, how to measure your dog for the perfect fit and the dangers of an ill-fitting collar!
Is an Ill-Fitting Collar Harmful?
If your dog’s collar is too tight, you could risk causing serious skin problems to the sensitive area of your dog’s neck and throat. A tight collar can rub on your dog’s skin, causing fur loss, irritation, and even scarring. Similarly, this pain and irritation can cause your dog to attempt to scratch and bite the area, making the wounds even worse and open to potential infections. If left too tight for too long, the collar can embed itself in your dog’s skin as they grow.
So, many issues could arise from your dog wearing a too-tight collar beyond just discomfort for your pup. But, of course, for dog parents, there is no greater fear than our dog’s pain or discomfort for even a moment. So, keep reading to learn how to test if your dog’s collar is too tight.
3 Tips to Test if your Dog’s Collar is Too Small
Luckily, testing whether your dog’s collar is too small is simple, and you can find out right away if they may be feeling any discomfort. Simply try one or all of the following tips to test if your dog’s collar is too tight, and look for a new size or design if you find your dog has outgrown their collar.
1. Move Around the Neck
Does your dog’s collar comfortably move around its neck without force? Hold your dog’s collar by the loop or D-ring, where you attach the lead, and gently move the collar around your dog's neck. If it moves with resistance, the collar might be too tight, and you should size up.
2. Two-Finger Test
This tip is the simplest to determine if your dog’s collar is too tight. Just place two fingers beneath the collar when it is on your dog’s neck. If two fingers fit comfortably, your dog has enough room to breathe in their collar. If you struggle to fit your fingers in the space, it’s time to size up.
3. The Necklace Test
Finally, you should try to lift your dog’s collar over its neck, similar to removing a necklace. A well-fitting collar should fit snugly at your dog’s ears. If it continues to slip above the ears, then the collar is too loose. If you struggle to get it close to your dog’s ears, it is too tight, and it’s time to find a new size.
How to Measure Your Dog’s Collar Size
Does your dog need a new collar size for a more comfortable and safer fit? We understand that ensuring you get the best fit for your dog can be stressful, which is why we have made it easy at Poppy + Ted.
To measure your dog’s collar size, simply measure the circumference of its neck using a measuring tape. We find measuring in centimetres easier and advertise our collar sizes accordingly. Once you have the circumference of your dog’s neck, add a two-finger width room inside your measurement. Just like the finger test that we recommended you try earlier.
Once you have your measurements, use this to find the best collar size for your dog compared to the size measurements advertised. It’s that easy!
You can find more advice and guidance on finding the right collar size for your dog using our handy size guide online now.
Shop Our Extensive Dog Collar Collection
Is it time to get your dog a new collar? At Poppy + Ted, we put comfort and style for your dog as a priority, which is why you can find many fun and safe collar designs in our collection. Our range of dog collars has something for everyone, and we’re sure you will find the perfect fit for your pup using our easy-to-follow measurement guide.
Plus, don’t forget you can also explore matching dog leads on offer and harnesses if you think that might be a better option for your dog. Is your dog still resisting wearing their collar, even after you have found the most comfortable fit? Find out how to encourage your dog to wear a collar in our online guide.
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