When it comes to getting the most out of any dog collar, one of the most important aspects to remember is choosing the right collar. Although many dog owners focus too much on the fancy dog leads, the most critical consideration should be the size of the lead or collar. If the collar is too small, it can be painful to your dog and when it is too large, it can fall off.
Without further ado, here is a quick guide to choosing the right collars for big dogs.
1. Consider your dog’s breed
The first step to choosing the right size of collar for your big dog is to know its breed type. In fact, there are collars that have labels recommending them for certain types of dog breeds. For such collars, choosing what will suit your dog is always a breeze. However, you should note that choosing dog collars based on the breed type may not be enough because every dog is different. However, you can always use this criterion as a guideline for figuring out the right range of size that your dog will fall within.
2. Measure the Neck
If your find it daunting to figure out the right type of collar for your dog based on the breed information, which options do you have? How do you figure out the best-fit collar for your canine friend? Well, the best and simplest way is to measure it. Use a cloth measuring tape to estimate the circumference of your dog’s neck. To get the right collar size, add about 2 inch for medium-sized dog breeds and 3 inches for big dog breeds that weigh more than 80 pounds. The additional inches will ensure that the collar is not too tight on your pooch, which can cause pain or injury.
3. The Age of your Dog
The age of your dog should also dictate the size of collar that you buy for them. For instance, for new puppies that are still growing, it is highly recommended to go for adjustable collars. Conversely, you don’t need an adjustable collar for a fully-grown dog. If you chose to go for an adjustable collar, ensure that it fits on the small end of the scale to allow for your puppy’s neck to grow. This implies that you won’t need to spend more money on dog collars in the long run.
If you still find it hard to choose the right collar for your dog, ask your fellow dog collars for an insight on what’s working for them. Alternatively, talk with a local vet about your dog and the right size of collar that would be best.
