How to Choose the Right Dog Collar: Types, Sizing, and Safety

The Flat Buckle Collar (The Standard)

This is the most common collar: a simple strip of nylon or leather with a buckle or snap closure and a D-ring for tags and a leash.

Best for: Well-trained dogs that do not pull on leash. Everyday wear for ID tags and license.

For more on this topic, see our guide on Dog Water Safety: Not All Dogs Can Swim.

Not for: Dogs that pull. A flat collar puts all the pressure directly on the trachea when the dog lunges. Chronic pulling against a flat collar can cause thyroid damage, neck injuries, and increased eye pressure (a concern for breeds prone to glaucoma).

For more on this topic, see our guide on How to Choose the Right Dog Breed for Your Lifestyle.

The Martingale Collar

A limited-slip collar that tightens slightly when the dog pulls but has a built-in stop that prevents it from choking. It creates a snug fit that dogs with narrow heads (Greyhounds, Whippets) cannot slip out of.

Best for: Dogs that back out of flat collars. Sighthound breeds. Dogs in training who need gentle leash guidance.

Not for: Dogs with tracheal collapse or respiratory issues.

Front-Clip Harness

A harness with the leash attachment point on the chest rather than the back. When the dog pulls forward, the front clip redirects their momentum back toward the handler, naturally discouraging pulling.

Best for: Dogs that pull on walks. Brachycephalic breeds (Pugs, Bulldogs) that should never have pressure on their necks. Dogs with tracheal collapse.

Not for: Off-leash use (they can slip out more easily than a collar).

Back-Clip Harness

The leash attaches on the dog’s back between the shoulder blades.

Best for: Small dogs, calm walkers, and dogs with neck injuries or tracheal issues.

Not for: Dogs that pull. A back-clip harness actually encourages pulling by distributing the force comfortably across the chest, making it easier for the dog to drag you.

Head Halter (Gentle Leader, Halti)

A strap that goes around the dog’s muzzle and behind the ears, similar to a horse halter. The leash attaches under the chin. When the dog pulls, the head turns back toward the handler.

Best for: Large, strong dogs that are dangerous pullers. Reactive dogs that need precise control.

Not for: Dogs that haven’t been desensitized to wearing them. Most dogs initially hate the feeling and paw at their face. Requires a 1-2 week introduction period.

Sizing Guide

A collar should be snug enough that it cannot slip over the dog’s head, but loose enough to fit two fingers between the collar and the neck.

• Too loose: The dog backs out and escapes, potentially into traffic.
• Too tight: Causes chafing, hair loss, and restricted breathing.

Check the fit weekly on growing puppies.