How to Choose the Right Dog Collar Size (Measuring Guide)

A collar that is too loose slips over the head when your dog pulls; one that is too tight rubs and can make breathing uncomfortable. Getting the size right takes two minutes and a tape measure.

Step 1: measure the neck

1. Use a soft tape measure (or a piece of string and a ruler).
2. Measure around the middle of your dog’s neck, where the collar will sit - not right behind the ears.
3. Note the number in inches. Measure twice to be sure.

Step 2: add room - the two-finger rule

Add about 2 inches (5 cm) for small and medium dogs, slightly more for large dogs. When the collar is on, you should be able to slide two fingers flat between the collar and the neck - no more, no less.

Step 3: pick the size

Bark.lk custom name collars are adjustable, so choose the size whose range your measurement falls in the middle of:

• Small - fits 6–20 inches, 1 inch wide, quick-release plastic clip. Rs. 1,450.
• Medium - fits 6–24 inches, about 1.1 inches wide, metal buckle, 7 colours. Rs. 1,550.
• Large - fits 19–24 inches, 2 inches wide, 2-pin buckle for strong pullers. Rs. 2,050.

Every size has a removable patch with your dog’s name and your phone number, in English or Sinhala. See all custom name collars.

Width: match it to your dog

Wider collars spread pressure across the neck, which matters for big, strong dogs that pull. Small dogs and puppies are more comfortable in a narrower collar.

Puppies grow fast

• Check the fit every week or two - puppies can outgrow a collar in a month.
• Choose an adjustable collar and start near the smallest setting so there is room to grow.
• Never leave a tight collar on a growing puppy.

Signs the collar doesn’t fit

• It slides over the ears when you pull it gently forward - too loose.
• You can’t fit two fingers under it, or there is hair loss or redness - too tight.
• It twists all the way round easily - probably too loose.

Add a name tag to the collar so your dog can be identified even if the collar patch is out of sight.