Joint publication

Prioritise Fit Above All Else

The truth is that even the best quality collars can be unsafe if they don’t fit properly. If a collar is too tight it can cause skin irritation, discomfort and restricted breathing. On the other hand, a collar that is too loose runs the risk of getting caught on objects or slipping off altogether. The best rule of thumb to follow is the simple 'two finger test'. You have the right fit if you can snugly fit two fingers between your pup’s neck and their collar. Remember to check the fit regularly for growing dogs and to adjust for changing seasonal coats.

Choose Materials That Suit Your Dog’s Lifestyle

It’s important to remember that not all collars are created equal, with material playing a huge rule in durability and comfort.

Nylon collars are affordable, lightweight and easy to clean, but the lower the quality versions can fray quickly and irritate sensitive skin. Natural fibres like cotton and hemp are gentler, but they will likely need to be replaced more frequently.

In our opinion, well maintained leather collars offer the best combination of durability and softness. They actually mould over time to better fit the unique shape of a pet’s neck, making them a solid long-term investment.

Leather collars soften and mould to your dog's shape over time.

Look for Safety Focused Features

Many modern collars include features that are designed specifically with a dog’s safety in mind. Reflective stitching is brilliant for better visibility on evening walks, while strong hardware like stainless steel or brass D-rings/buckles to ensure your are always safely connected.

If your dog spends a lot of time playing in wooded areas or is left alone in their collar, a "breakaway" or "quick-release" mechanism can be a life-saver, as these are designed to pop open if the collar gets snagged. However, remember these are usually not suitable for use with a lead as you don't want them to be able to run away from you. 

These details might seem small, but they can go a long way to reducing risks for everyday use.

Pay Attention to Build Quality

The thing to remember is that any collar is only as strong as its weakest point, so things like flimsy buckles, poor stitching and cheap materials all pose risks of breakage, especially for excitable and strong pups! Though a more expensive collar might dent the wallet harder on initial purchase, something that is well-made is going to last much longer, and you can’t put a price on the peace of mind of knowing that your precious pooch is safe and happy!

Happy dogs and relaxed walks go hand in hand when safety is the top priority.

Consider Comfort for All Day Wear

Since your collar is an accessory that your dog will wear for hours at a time,  comfort is crucial. Look for materials that are breathable and designs with smooth edges to minimise the threat of chafing.  If your dog has a particularly short coat or sensitive skin they might benefit from a collar that is softer or slightly padded to reduce friction.

Peace of Mind For Parents

For parents juggling both human and canine children, safety and comfort is key to creating a happy home.  Controlled walks lead to safer playtime for everyone. By focusing on material, fit, safety features and quality, you can find a collar that achieves the dual tasks of keeping your pet well and making life easier for the whole family.