Getting your large pup the best and most suitable collar is essential for its and your own safety and comfort.
Some large pups are stronger and more boisterous than others, which can be a problem for you and a danger for others.
If you are a first-time dog owner, you may be overwhelmed by the vast selection of different collars on the market.
The first thing you need to know is that there are different types of collars suitable for big dogs, and each style has its pros and cons.
Also, you should pick a collar not only for its aesthetics but mostly for your pup’s and your security, safety, and comfort.
A good collar will allow you to communicate with your pup and keep it safe when walking, playing, or during training.
In this detailed guide, we have included our list of the best dog collars for large dogs, as well as tips for choosing the most suitable one for your furbaby.
Why Do You Need A Special Large Dog Collar?
Every dog is different and has specific needs, so it is essential to choose a collar that fits comfortably on your large pup’s neck and will not hurt or injure it but, at the same time, will stay on its neck securely. A suitable collar should be easy for you to put on and take off but will remain intact and will not break open when your furry companion is leashed.
Large and powerful pups, especially more playful and rambunctious ones, need a collar that is comfy and safe for them and other dogs and people.
Plus, some big dogs like Pit bulls and Mastiffs have massive heads and necks, while others have smaller heads and thicker necks, so you need to buy your furry friend a collar which will not allow it to slip it off.
Some dogs are better off with wider collars, while others will feel more comfortable and will be safer with narrower and other types.
You need to select a collar depending on whether your pup tends to pull the leash or not and whether you will let it roam unleashed or not.
Extra-Large Dog Collars: 5 Varieties To Pick From
Giant dog breeds, like Great Danes, Saint Bernards, and others, need collars that are at least 2 inches wide. But there are different types, sizes, and materials to choose from. Here are the main types of dog collars for large and giant breeds.
Collar For Puppies
Giant and large breed puppies need special puppy collars suitable for their size and behavior. Very young puppies will be more comfortable and safer with lighter and thinner collars. Once they start growing up, you will need to switch to a collar that is wider and safer.
Waterproof Dog Collars
If your large furry friend enjoys swimming or playing in the water, or if you live in an area where it rains a lot, you may want to opt for a waterproof dog collar.
Such collars will not get drenched and be ruined or become smelly when they get wet. Plus, they will dry faster.
Reflective Collars
A reflective collar is beneficial, especially if you walk your pup predawn or late in the evening and around traffic.
There are some collars with reflective elements and others that glow in the dark, which will make your dog and you easier to spot by drivers who are passing by.
Designer Collars
There are, of course, some designer collars with unique designs, patterns, materials, and added elements like metal, lace, and even crystals.
But remember to put safety and comfort first before choosing a fancy collar just for its aesthetics.
Personalized Dog Collars
You can get your dog a collar that has its name, address, and phone on it. This will not only make your pup stand out from the others but will also make it easier for somebody to contact you if it happens to get lost.
The 7 Best Dog Collars For Large Dogs
Best For Training: Herm SPRENGER Ultra-Plus Prong Dog Training Collar
This collar is one of the best options for training large-sized or strong dogs and teaching them to walk on a leash, as well as for correcting their behavior.
The high quality and reliable training collar by HS Herm. Sprenger is made in Germany from high-quality, durable alloy steel.
It is designed with blunt prongs that mimic the feeling of the mother’s mouth and teeth on the dog’s neck. Mothers use their mouths to correct the behavior of their puppies.
Each of the elements on the collar can be removed, or more can be added if you need to adjust the size of the collar for your pup.
Since the prongs are rounded, you can train your pup without injuring it. Still, with a slight tug of the collar, you will tell your dog that it is time to stop pulling to slow down or to stop doing something else.
The high-quality collar comes in chrome color and in two sizes, one with a 16-inch chain, suitable for dogs with a neck size of 14 inches, and the larger one with a 24-inch chain for larger dogs with necks that are 22 inches.
This collar is an excellent choice for large and powerful pups that pull a lot. It can help keep you, your dog, and others safe when you are walking your furry friend.
Even if your pup is still growing, you can still buy these prongs and then simply purchase additional links to extend the collar’s length over time.
Best Military: OneTigris Military Adjustable Dog Collar with Metal D Ring
The OneTigris collar for large dogs is our top choice for the best military and tactical collar designed for working dogs.
It is reasonably priced, made of durable materials, and is easy to adjust in length.
The strap is made of sturdy nylon, padded with soft cushioning on the inside to protect your pup’s skin, coat, and neck. It has durable metal elements, including a D-ring, metal buckle, and grommets.
The collar features a 3.9 x 1.5-inch patch panel where you can add your dog’s name patch or ID tag.
It is a rugged collar for large-sized and strong dogs that comes in two sizes. Size M has an adjustable length of 14.6 to 17.7 inches. The L size has an adjustable length of 17.7 to 20.9 inches. The width of both size options is 1.7 inches.
You can buy this military dog collar in several color options, including black, light green, green, grey, and brown.
This military-style dog collar has all the strength and durability of a collar designed for use by working dogs. The large size fits dogs with necks between 17.7 and 20.9 inches in diameter, and the x-large size fits dogs with necks between 20.9 and 24 inches in diameter. It’s made from thick, strong nylon, with a padded interior, and features rugged hardware.
The affordable collar is adjustable and suitable for large pups like Dobermans, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and other dogs with a neck circumference from 15.7 inches to up to 22 inches.
The only potential downside for some dog parents is that it does not have a quick-release buckle but a belt buckle which takes more time and effort to put on and get off.
Best For Strong Pullers: PetSafe Adjustable Martingale Collar – Tightens When Dogs Pull
This is the most budget-friendly option on our list, and at the same time is one of the most suitable options for large dogs who are strong pullers.
It is a high-quality, well-designed martingale collar that will tighten automatically around your dog’s neck if it pulls you suddenly. As soon as the pup stops pulling the leash or your hand, the collar will loosen once again.
It is a safer and more humane option than a regular choke or prong collar or chain.
This reliable alternative to a choke collar is an excellent choice if your furry companion tends to pull a lot or if it is constantly plotting an escape from its collar and leash.
The collar from PetSafe is made of durable materials, including a sturdy nylon strap that can be adjusted in length, a secure snap buckle for easy off and on, and a strong D-ring.
You can buy it in a wide assortment of color options and in sizes ranging from Petite to large. The large size has an adjustable length of 13 to 20 inches and is suitable for German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, or other dogs with a neck girth of up to 18-19 inches.
Make things more comfortable with your furry friend by investing in this martingale-style dog collar by PetSafe. Martingale collars are safer than prong collars or choke chains and are sturdy, reliable, and escape-proof!
Best Leather: Perri’s Padded Leather Dog Collars
If you prefer to buy your big dog a high-quality leather collar, then this one by Perri’s is one of the top-rated options on the market right now.
Perri’s is a well-known Amish manufacturer of high-quality crafted leather products for horses and for equestrian use. This dog collar is a great example of the quality of the materials and the craftsmanship of the company.
The buckle-style leather collar looks gorgeous and luxurious and is made of naturally tanned soft lambskin leather, which is available in a wide variety of different stunning color options.
It is padded with robust but pillow-soft lambskin padding for added comfort for your furbaby.
The buckle, loop, and other hardware elements are made of durable brass and stainless steel, ensuring that this collar will withstand the test of time and all weather conditions.
It is adjustable and available in several size options, from Extra Small to Extra Large. The Large size will fit pups with neck circumferences of 16 to 20 inches, and the Extra Large one is suitable for dogs with neck sizes of 20 to 24 inches.
Pit Bull Collar, Dog Collar for Large Dogs
Bully’s has created this stylish and robust collar for Pit Bulls and for all other large and powerful dog breeds.
It has a tough heavy-duty nylon strap and is fitted with a weather and rust-resistant stainless steel buckle, D-ring, and loops with a branded Bully’s tag.
The collar can be adjusted in length and is available in different sizes from Small to XXXL.
It is wide and comfortable and easy to wash and dry.
The XXXL size has a length of 33 inches and is suitable for pups with neck sizes from 27 to 31 inches.
The XXL size is for dogs with neck girths from 25 to 29 inches, and the XL option is perfect for dogs with necks that have a circumference of 23 to 27 inches.
The smallest size can be adjusted to fit dogs with necks from 17 to 21 inches.
Best Illuminated: Blazin LED Light Up Dog Collar
This rechargeable glowing collar will keep your dog visible even in the darkest night. It is affordable and comes in a variety of glowing color options.
Each collar by Blazin has powerful LED lights, visible at a distance of up to 1,000 feet.
It can be recharged via the included micro-USB charging cord and is very durable and waterproof. You don’t need to worry about buying replacement batteries. All you need to do is to plug in the collar and have it charged and ready for your next walk.
You can set the illumination to one of three modes – solid, slow, or fast blink.
It will not be damaged and will continue glowing, even if it is raining or if your pup has jumped into the lake for a swim.
You can buy it in a wide choice of adjustable sizes. The large size can be adjusted from 19.3 to 27.6 inches in length.
Best Reflective: Taglory Reflective Dog Collar with Safety Locking Buckle
This is another inexpensive yet sturdy and efficient collar suitable for large and for extra-large dogs. It has a reflective strap, which will keep you and your pup safe when walking on the street in the dark alongside cars and other vehicles.
The reflective dog collar comes in various colors and has a sturdy nylon strap with 360-degree reflective webbing, which can easily be adjusted in length. It is padded with neoprene on the inside to keep your furry companion comfortable and safe.
It has a durable plastic quick-release buckle with a reliable locking system to ensure that your furbaby is safe and doesn’t come loose.
The largest size is X-Large and is 1 ¼ inch wide, and will fit dogs with necks from 18 to 28 inches.
The Large size can be adjusted in length from 16 to 24 inches and is 1 inch wide.
How To Choose The Right Dog Collar For A Large Dog?
Here are the factors to keep in mind when choosing the best collar for your large-size furbaby.
Neck Size
The first thing to do before selecting the most suitable collar for your pup is to measure the circumference of its neck. Use a flexible measuring tape, or if you don’t have one, use a string and then measure its length with a regular ruler or measuring tape. The tape should fit its neck snugly but not tightly.
It is recommended that you add 2 inches to your dog’s actual neck circumference, especially for dogs that weigh over 80 lbs. this will ensure that the collar will fit on your pup’s neck without causing discomfort or injury. At the same time, it should be secure enough to prevent your dog from slipping it off over its head.
Also, consider whether your pup has reached its adult size or is still growing when choosing the correct collar size.
Fabric
Dog collars can be made of all types of fabrics and materials. The most important thing is to choose one made of a durable material that will not break easily.
Then, choose a material that will not cause discomfort for your pup, especially if it has allergies or sensitive skin.
Fabric collars are usually cheaper than leather ones. They come in different colors and designs and are easier to wash and maintain.
But if your furry companion is sensitive to the fabric collar, you can opt for leather, metal, plastic, or other materials.
Allergies
Some canines are more sensitive to different materials, chemicals, and other possible allergens than others. Make sure your furbaby is not allergic to the fabric, leather, or other material of the collar of your choice.
An allergic reaction or sensitivity can lead to itchy skin, hives, rashes, and other problems and discomfort for your dog.
So, it is advisable to invest in a good quality collar that will not cause discomfort or hurt your pup.
Durability
The collar’s durability is essential for large and giant dogs that pull and exert a lot of pressure on it when leashed.
It is essential that the collar you choose is made of high-quality material and is designed in a way that will withstand the pulling and, at the same time, will reduce the risk of damage to the pups’ neck, trachea, or of choking.
Rules Of Thumb When Buying An Extra Large Dog Collar
Here are the main tips and rules of thumb for owners of large-sized pups looking for the best collar.
- Firstly, the collar should be long and wide enough to fit your furry companion’s neck comfortably and be secure and safe. Makes sure to measure the circumference of your pup’s neck and add a couple of inches to ensure the collar does not choke or injure it.
- Also, if your dog is expected to continue to grow, consider buying a collar that can be adjusted in length.
- Keep in mind that even the best heavy-duty fabric collars can stretch over time, so buying a collar that allows for some length adjustments is a good idea.
- A reliable dog collar should be made of high-quality, heavy-duty material and be easy to maintain, wash, and clean. Some of the best collars on the market come with a guarantee for quality.
- Just like with our clothes, different dog collar manufacturers can have different sizing systems, so check with them and look for a size that matches your pup’s neck size with two added inches.
- Choosing a dog collar made of high-quality fabric or other material will not only ensure that you are making a better investment but also that your pup will be safe and will not break loose when pulling its leash.
- Another important rule of thumb is to choose a collar with durable hardware, such as a strong D-ring, buckles, clasps, or clips.
- All of these elements should be made of durable materials and securely attached to the fabric of the leash with double stitching. The better their quality, the longer you can rely on the collar to keep your dog and all others safe when it is wearing its collar.
- Always allow for some wiggle room when selecting the suitable collar for your furry companion. In general, it is recommended to add 2 inches to the actual neck size of your pup. If the collar of your choice comes in different size options, select the one which is longer rather than the size below it.
- You should also consider whether the collar of your choice is machine washable or easy to clean and maintain. Popping the collar in the washing machine is much easier than hand washing it. Also, some collars are made of quicker drying fabric and materials than others.
- Last but not least, for peace of mind, choose a collar that comes with a warranty by the manufacturer. A longer warranty will give you the assurance that your large-sized pup will be safe and sound and will be able to use the collar for longer.
FAQs
Here are the short answers to some of the most commonly asked questions by people looking for collars for their large dogs.
What is the strongest dog collar?
While no fabric is 100% indestructible, there are some dog collars that come close. Look for a collar made of ballistic nylon and has durable metal hardware.
Are wide collars better for dogs?
The collars for large and giant dogs come in various lengths and widths. In general, wider collars are safer and provide more support for very large dogs, especially if they are strong pullers or harder to control.
But the wider collar also tends to weigh more, so they are suitable only for pups that are strong enough to wear them comfortably and safely.
Why should your dog wear a collar even if you’re using a harness?
Even if you find that the harness is more comfortable and safer for your furbaby, it is essential that it also wears a collar if you want to provide it with efficient training and control.
While the harness is suitable for attaching your leash and limiting the strain on your pup’s neck, a dog collar is perfect for holding your pup’s ID tag, and if your dog needs to be trained to stop pulling or to behave properly, a suitable collar is much more efficient.
My large dog is just a puppy. Does it need a collar anyway?
Yes, even though your puppy will continue to grow, it is recommended that you start training it and socializing it as early as possible. It should get used to wearing a collar and walking on a leash. With a suitable collar, you can start teaching your puppy how to behave and listen to your commands from an early age.
Some collars are adjustable in length, so consider buying one of those if you expect that your dog will continue growing.
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