How Tight Should A Dog Collar Be?

Wondering how tight a dog collar should be? Learn how to size it correctly and make sure it’s not uncomfortable for your pup.

Every dog needs a collar or a harness. If not for dog walks, then for holding their tags.

It’s fairly common for pet owners to misjudge the tightness and comfortability of their dog’s collar. Not to worry! It’s not complicated.

However, if you go too loose, your dog might be able to escape, and if it’s too tight, your dog might get a throat injury from the collar.

There are a few tricks for knowing when a collar is just right, that way your dog is safe and comfortable.

How Tight Should A Dog Collar Be?

The 2 Finger Rule

The 2 finger rule is a good way to check that your dog’s collar is comfortably tight.

If you can stick 2 fingers in between the collar and your dog, it’s perfect!

As long as your fingers can slide in, even if it’s a little snug, the collar is typically good.

Do Regular Collar Checks

Just like humans, your dog grows over time and their collar may become too tight. Especially if you’re dog is under 2 years old, you want to be sure to check their collar every 2 weeks or so.

Regular wear and tear, along with simply outgrowing their old collar may call for a new one.

Do the 2 finger test to see if the collar fits well still, and check to see if it’s still in good condition.

How To Know If Your Dog’s Collar Is Too Tight?

Aside from doing regular checks, if you notice your dog pawing at their collar, or generally just looking uncomfortable, their collar may be the culprit.

To make sure the collar isn’t too loose, try to slip it upwards.

Even if it isn’t close to coming all the way off, too much sliding is a sign that it’s too loose. A collar that is too loose is a safety concern, as your pup can get caught on tree limbs, fences, and other things outside while playing.

How Tight Should A Dog Collar Be (Video):

What’s your favorite dog collar? Let us know in the comments below!

FrugLife strives to provide accurate advice and helpful resources to pet owners. Your pet’s health is important to us, so please remember that the content on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, and is for entertainment purposes only. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified animal healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding your pet’s medical or behavioral condition.

*Post originally published June 2022, last updated February 2023.