Measuring Instructions
An inch is an inch. Right? No, at least not when we are making custom dog collars. It all depends on how the dog (or collar) is actually measured.
Don't believe us? Try it yourself…take one of your dog's buckle collars and lay it open, flat on the table. Now, measure from the buckle to the correct hole. Now, fasten the buckle and measure the inside circumference of the fastened collar with a flexible tape measure. The first measurement will be larger than the second.
We are not trying to make it difficult, we promise! We just want your dog's collar to fit as well as possible. It is impossible for us to fit your dog over the Internet. Do not ask us to make a collar based on your dog's breed, age or weight - this is impossible. Please follow the measuring guidelines below for your dog's new collar.
A customer's two Brittanys wearing their properly fitted, double strand martingale collars.
What you will need:
Flexible tape measure - sewing style, not a metal tape measure
The style of collar you want will determine where and how you measure, please see below.
Buckle Collar
Buckle collar style:
Place your tape measure around your dog's neck, in the approximate area where you would like the collar to sit. To ensure a comfortable fit, put 2-3 fingers underneath the tape when measuring.
Photo at left: Gunner's neck measures approximately 15.5", with 2 fingers under the tape.
Photo at right: One of Gunner's finished collars, with an internal circumference of approximately 15.5".
Buckle collar style:
Measure the length of your dog's current, well fitting buckle collar as shown to the right.
When ordering, please tell us whether you are proving a neck measurement or a collar length.
Paracord Slip-Snap Collar
Paracord can stretch slightly. I do try to stretch the collars when measuring to prevent excessive stretching, however this may vary depending on dog and use. For example, large breed dogs who pull excessively may stretch the collar.
Martingale Collar
Because this is exactly how I measure my martingales when making them, this is the most accurate method to get the best fitting collar for your dog. You do not have to measure another martingale collar, it just has to be a collar that you can slide on and off over your dog's head. This style of collar is always a little snugger coming off, than going on, so make sure you try your collar both directions.
Place your martingale or buckle collar on a flat surface (if is is a buckle collar, put the buckle into the hole that fits the best for this measurement). Use a flexible tape measure and measure the inside circumference of the collar. If you are measuring a martingale collar, also include the chain in your measurement. Keep the tape measure snug against the collar when measuring. Make sure you measure the ENTIRE circle of the collar, including any hardware. DO NOT pick up the collar when measuring.
This method can be used for measuring your dog for ANY collar. You do not have to measure the same style of collar as the one you are ordering. The only thing you have to keep in mind is whether or not the collar will need to be slipped over your dog's head. This is the way we measure our collars when we make them, so this will give you the most accurate fit possible.
For example, if you are ordering a standard martingale, you can measure any style of collar, as long as it will slip on and off the dog's head. The most important thing to remember is you always need to measure the ENTIRE internal circumference of the collar. As this method is more accurate (in my experience) than measuring your dog, please contact me with any questions.
* Also, please be aware that this is the way I measure my collars. Other vendors may measure their items differently. Always check with the braider you are ordering from to ensure you measure the same way they do for the best fit possible.
Age - If you choosing a collar for a dog who is younger than one and a half years old, chances are he or she will gain some size dimensions in the neck circumference.
Type of coat - Thick or longer coated dogs may need extra room for their fur to assure a comfortable fit of your dog's new collar.
Purpose of the item - A tighter fitting collar will assure a secure fit of the item for training dogs and working with them, a looser fit is appropriate for using the item around the house or extended wear.
We are not responsible for errors in measuring your dog.
A lot of my products are NOT adjustable after they are made.
Please measure carefully.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.