A good collar is an essential dog gear. Even if your dog already wears a harness, they can still benefit from a collar to hold their ID tags. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right dog collar? What kind of collar will work best for your particular pup?

Dog Collars and The Dog They Suit Best

Flat Nylon Collar

These are the standard, flat nylon collars that lay against your dog’s neck. It’s the most common type of dog collar and is available in many colours, sizes and designs. This collar is made from lightweight, yet strong with woven nylon, and it’s comfortable for everyday wear. Some, like this Ruffwear Front Range™ Everyday Dog Collar, are made from recycled material. It usually features a buckle or quick-release clasp and a D-ring for attaching ID tags and a leash. This collar suits most dogs, especially those that walk well on a leash without pulling. However, it’s not ideal for heavy pullers or escape artists, as it may not give you enough control and the pressure from pulling can strain the dog’s trachea. If you have a large, powerful dog, and need a collar that can hold up to their powerful strength, you’ll need sturdy, wide nylon collars with strong buckles, preferably with dual D-rings for added durability like the DOG Copenhagen Urban Explorer™ Collar. 

Leather Collar

Leather collars are always timeless, stylish, and durable. Over time, good-quality leather softens and molds to the dog’s neck, providing superior comfort while maintaining strength and style. They’re less likely to cause irritation than some synthetic materials, making them suitable for dogs with sensitive skin. Leather collars come in flat or rolled styles, with the latter helping prevent matting in long-haired breeds. Although they require occasional cleaning and conditioning to prevent cracking, their longevity and classic look make them worth it. These collars are perfect for owners who appreciate both durability and elegance in their dog’s accessories.

Rope Collar

Rope collars, like this Ruffwear Knot-a-Collar™ Reflective Rope Dog Collar, are often made from climbing-grade rope. These collars are strong, lightweight, and flexible. They’re designed to distribute pressure evenly across the neck, reducing the risk of skin chafing and minimizing matting. Many rope collars feature a slip or adjustable design and their durability makes them ideal for active dogs who spend time outdoors, hike, or swim. Take note that lower-quality rope collars can fray or weaken over time, so it’s important to choose one made with high-quality materials. 

Waterproof Collar

Waterproof collars, like the Wild One Anti-Odour Dog Collar, often made from rubber or coated webbing, are durable, odour-resistant, and easy to wipe clean. They don’t absorb water or dirt, making them ideal for active, outdoor, or swimming dogs. The material is flexible yet tough, offering a comfortable fit that won’t chafe. These collars maintain their bright color and shape even after frequent exposure to mud, rain, or sea water. They’re a great choice for adventurous dogs, hunting dogs, and dogs who swim regularly. The waterproof collar is a must-have for pet parents with water-loving dogs. These collars are just perfect for those who value convenience and hygiene.  

GPS / Smart Collar

GPS and smart collars combine technology with pet safety. Equipped with location tracking, they let owners monitor their dog’s real-time movements via smartphone apps, and this can be especially useful for escape-prone dogs! Some models also track activity, sleep, and health metrics, helping owners manage fitness and detect changes in behaviour early. Many are water-resistant and built for outdoor use, though they tend to be bulkier than standard collars. These collars suit tech-savvy pet parents, working dogs, or those who roam freely in large areas. Regular charging and an active subscription may be required for tracking features to work.

Headcollar

A headcollar, sometimes called a head halter, fits around a dog’s nose and neck, giving you control over the head and direction during walks. By guiding the head, it redirects the dog’s body, making it easier to manage strong pullers. Headcollars are particularly effective for large or strong dogs and for training dogs that tend to lunge, but it must be used with care.

Proper fitting and adjustment are essential to ensure comfort and prevent slipping or rubbing, and many dogs will need time to get used to the sensation of something around their nose. It must be introduced gradually. Most importantly, do not yank. Pulling the dog’s head sideways or upward while his body is still moving forward, especially at a considerable strength and speed, can cause spinal injury! 

Martingale Collar

A martingale collar, also known as a limited-slip or no-slip collar, is designed for dogs that can easily slip out of regular collars. It tightens slightly when the dog pulls, applying gentle, even pressure without choking. Originally created for greyhounds and other breeds with narrow heads, it’s now widely used for training or safety during walks. The design typically features two loops; one for the leash and another that tightens the collar evenly. Martingales are excellent for dogs that need a bit of extra control or have a habit of backing out of collars.

With a martingale collar, always invest in a well-constructed collar, designed for safety and longevity. Avoid thin or flimsy webbing that frays easily, check for reinforced stitching and solid buckles that do not bend or rust easily. Two popular martingale collars include Ruffwear Chain Reaction™ Reflective Martingale Dog Collar and Ruffwear Web Reaction™ Reflective Buckled Martingale Dog Collar. Many handlers find them an effective training tool, especially for bigger dogs who pull. 

However, with the martingale collar, it is important to ensure proper fit to prevent over-tightening when the dog pulls. Also, precautions when using the martingale collar - do not leave your dog unsupervised in a martingale collar. This extra loop can get caught on furniture, branches, or even another dog’s teeth causing injuries to the dogs. Use it only when necessary, under close supervision.

Consider Your Dog’s Needs When Getting a Collar

Selecting the right dog collar comes down to your dog’s breed, size, age and behaviour. A small dog will have different collar requirements than a larger breed. A dog that is still undergoing training and pulls frequently may require a martingale collar, and an adjustable collar may be a better choice for a rapidly growing, large breed puppy.

It is important to do your research and measure your dog’s proportions correctly, before making a collar purchase. During fitting, once the collar is fastened around your dog’s neck, you should be able to comfortably slide two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. Adjust if necessary, until you get the right fit for your dog’s comfort and safety.

KATHERINE KHOO

Katherine is a Pet Nutrition Specialist and GDP’s Pet Wellness Advisor. She is committed to helping pet owners make informed dietary and lifestyle choices in nurturing healthy pets. Katherine is also a practicing Nutritional Therapist (human nutrition) and has been helping hundreds of clients to heal naturally with nutrients.