Is your dog constantly getting out of his collar or pulling at it so much that it hurts his neck?
You should try one of these wide dog collars because they can really help keep your pooch healthier.
Having a wide dog collar puts less direct pressure on your dog’s neck so even if he does pull, it will not hurt him like a skinny collar will.
After evaluating more than 30 wide dog collars, I chose the “1.5-inch wide One Tigress Collar” as my favorite because it is durable, has a double heavy-duty metal buckle, eye fitting system with eight settings, and the D-ring that is tested for a pull strength of 661 pounds.
But I understand you might have different needs, whether you’re looking for a wide collar for your large breed or a reflective one. That is why I prepared a shortlist of our favorite wide dog collars that address different styles & needs.
Before we dive into the review section below, we’ll explain the main benefit of a wide dog collar, the different types of collars available online, we’ll guide you step by step on how to choose the right size, and what criteria you should use to make the best selection for your needs.
In addition, we’ll answer some common questions from dog parents.
So let’s get started.
Does Your Dog Need a Wide Dog Collar? And Is it Different From a Regular One?
All dog collars are not made equal. In fact, some dogs should not be using those thin collars that some of the other pooches are wearing.
If you have a larger breed of dogs like a Rottweiler, Pitbull, or Mastiff, they need a thicker collar to even out the pressure if he pulls on his leash.
Those thinner ones can get embedded and cause a great deal of pain to giant breeds with large necks.
Wide dog collars are furfect for training because the width of the collar can disperse the pressure over a wider area on your dog’s neck to prevent injury if he pulls.
Also, those dogs with sleek heads like Greyhounds and Whippets can slip right out of their collars so they are much better off with a collar that is at least two inches wide.
Type Of Dog Collars & Similar Products
There are many types of dog collars, halters, and harnesses on the market to choose from, some better than others for a variety of reasons. The type of collar you get for your dog really depends on your dog. Let’s look at the most common types of dog collars on the market:
Buckle collars
These are the most basic or common ones that are just collars that fasten with a buckle. These are usually made of leather, cotton, or nylon and are either rolled or flat. They are adjustable and do not tighten on your dog’s neck once they are attached. These are good for dogs that do not pull or try to get out of their collars and they reduce the chafing as well.
Quick-release collars
Similar to the buckle collar, these are made of nylon, cotton, or leather and they are adjustable but do not tighten once they are on your dog. These have a plastic snap that makes it easier and faster to remove.
No-slip collars
If you have a dog that tends to get out of their collar all the time or if you have a greyhound or whippet, these collars are furfect. These are made to tighten around your fur baby’s neck when he tries to pull away but stops before getting too tight.
Head halters
Also known as gentle leaders, these are made like the halter on a horse and are often used on dogs that tend to pull when you walk them. It is not a muzzle though. Your pup is still able to bite, bark, eat, and drink when he is wearing it.
Harnesses
A harness is another paw-pular way to lead your dog. This wraps around your dog’s chest and is good for small dogs or dogs that have the tendency to pull. They are great for the dog because they wrap around their body instead of the neck but they require more strength from you. They come in standard and front-hook varieties.
How to Choose the Correct Collar Size for Your Dog?
There are three ways to measure your dog for his new collar. You can use a cloth tape measure, a piece of string, or just measure his old collar.
Take a cloth tape measure and wrap it around your pup’s neck. Then place two fingers in between the tape measure and your dog’s neck for him to be able to breathe or if he grows a bit.
Check the size and use this as a guide to choosing his collar size. Most collars come in adjustable sizes such as 12 to 18 inches or 24 to 30 inches so try to get what will fit your dog now and if he grows a little too.
It is better for it to be too large than too small because you can adjust the large one. If you are measuring his old collar, start where the material starts to the current adjustment of the collar.
8 Rules Of Thumb When Buying a Dog Wide Collar
Getting your fur baby a collar seems like it should be an easy job, right? Well, there are certain things you need to consider when doing so. You want to make sure the material is durable, get one that is best for your type and age of dog, make sure it is adjustable, and you may also want to get one that has reflective strips to help see him in the dark. The price should be weighed against the quality and features of the collar, don’t just get the cheapest one you can find.
- Durable material: The best kind of collar is made from a durable material like leather, nylon, neoprene, or some other strong material. Also make sure the buckle or clasp is made of a strong thick plastic or metal so it does not break the first time your dog yanks on his leash.
- Dog status: If you have a puppy, make sure the collar is made for puppies and do not forget that puppies grow quickly. So you should get one that is adjustable and grows with your pooch. And if your pup is extra active, you need one that is made for this type of dog.
- Adjustability: Since all dogs are different, it can be tricky to find one that fits your pooch perfectly. Try to get one that is a little larger than what you need so you can tighten it if needed. It is better to have extra room for adjustment than to not have enough material to wrap around your dog’s neck. If your pup’s neck is 20 inches around, get one that is made for dogs with a neck between 17 and 21 inches.
- Reflective strips: It is always good to have reflective strips to prevent accidents after dark. This can be very important if your pooch gets away from you on a night time walk or gets out of the yard after dark and wanders into the street. The reflective strips reflect the light from headlights so drivers can see him better.
- Price/features ratio: Rather than just getting the cheapest collar you can find, choose one that has the best price for the features it has. For example, if it is made of high quality leather and metal buckles, you should expect to pay a bit more than buying a cheap plastic collar with thin plastic buckles.
- It should be machine washable. Because dogs tend to get dirty often, it would be great to have a collar that you can just toss in the washing machine with the other laundry. Otherwise you are stuck hand washing it all the time whenever he feels like digging in the dirt or playing in puddles.
- Warranty: If a company does not offer a warranty, this says that they do not really believe in their product. And if they do not expect it to last, neither should you. Find one that has at least a 30-day warranty so you know the company is willing to stand behind its products.
- Made in the USA: Getting a collar made in the United States is not a major thing but it is true that companies have strict guidelines to follow in the US when it comes to pet products just like for human products. Other countries may follow those rules too but most do not have to so you are taking the risk that they may have cut corners.
Our 2024 Top Best 12 Wide Dog Collars
After reviewing more than 30 wide dog collars using the criteria mentioned above, we chose 7 that we think are the best for you and your dog:
OneTigris Military Adjustable Dog Collar
- Inch: 14.6 to 17.7(M) or 17.7 to 20.9(L) with a width of 1.5 inches
- Adjustability: Yes
- Reflective strips: No
- Fabric: Nylon
- Machine Washable: No
- Made In The USA: No
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
- Best for: Our Overall Top Pick/ Best wide dog collar
The 1.5-inch wide One Tigress collar is made of a thick and durable nylon material with double stitching and eight-hole fittings for adjustment. The D-ring is securely attached so it will not break with normal wear and tear. It is also very stylish with five colors and has a velcro space to attach a name tag, which is very cool.
Under the collar is nice soft padding so it is not uncomfortable on your fur baby’s neck. Also, it is tested at a pull strength of up to 661 pounds so your pup should not be able to break it. This only comes in medium and large though, so if your dog is not in that size range, you are going to have to get a different one.
What We Like:
- The price is good
- It is nice looking
- The buckles are metal, which is much stronger than plastic
What Dogs Love about it?
- The padding underneath is comfortable
- It is wide so it feels good on the neck
What We Don’t like:
- There are only two sizes
OHOME Reflective Dog Collar
- Inch: 16 to 24 and 2 inches wide
- Adjustability: Yes
- Reflective strips: Yes
- Fabric: Nylon and neoprene
- Machine Washable: Yes
- Made In The USA: No
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
- Best for: Affordable Price
This is the only collar that is machine washable because it has a neoprene material that is waterproof like a wetsuit. And for that price, it is really pawfect! Although you only get one color pattern choice, it is really a cool pattern that looks great on any pooch. And the metal D-ring is coated in nickel for durability.
It comes in the medium for dogs with a 16- to 20-inch neck and large for a dog with a 20- to 25-inch neck. The inside is padded and made of breathable material for those hot days in the sun. Your dog will love it and so will you.
What We Like:
- It is machine washable
- The price is great
- The pattern is pawesome
What Dogs Love about it?
- It is made of breathable material
- The padded inside is soft
What We Don’t like:
- It only comes in two sizes
Bully’s Dog Collar for Large Dogs
- Inch: 15 to 31 with a width of 1.5 to 2 inches
- Adjustability: Yes
- Reflective strips: No
- Fabric: Tactical grade nylon
- Machine Washable: No
- Made In The USA: No
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
- Best for: wide collar for large breeds
Made of thick braided nylon, the tactical grade material is furfect for keeping your large pup right where he belongs. It comes in six colors and the extra width makes it more comfortable as well as durable. Bully’s has been making quality high-grade dogware since 2005 and is a trusted company in the pet wear business.
It comes in seven sizes: x-small fits 15 to 19 inches, small is 17 to 21 inches, medium fits 19 to 23 inches, large is for 21 to 25 inches, x-large is 23 to 27 inches, xx-large fits 25 to 29 inches, and xxx-large is for 27 to 31 inches. They come in 1.5 or 2 inches wide so you can get the perfect fit for your fur baby.
What We Like:
- This one has the most sizes to choose from
- The Bully name is a trusted brand
- It is extra durable
What Dogs Love about it?
- It is comfortable
What We Don’t like:
- It costs more than most others
RC Pets 1 1/2″ Wide Adjustable Dog Clip Collar
- Inch: 12 to 25 and 1.5 inches wide
- Adjustability: Yes
- Reflective strips: Yes
- Fabric: Nylon
- Machine Washable: No
- Made In The USA: No
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
- Best for: reflective wide dog collar
The first thing you will notice about this collar is that it comes in so many amazing patterns and colors. In fact, it comes in 24 patterns including watermelon, pitter-patter, rainbow paws, and lemonade. But it only comes in two sizes. The medium fits necks from 12 to 20 inches and the large fits those with a neck from 15 to 25 inches.
The reflective label is pawesome for protecting your pooch if he gets out in the dark and the nickel-plated D-ring resists rust and corrosion. Although they only have a 30-day money-back warranty, but they will repair or replace them for the lifetime of your pet so that is great!
What We Like:
- Lifetime repair or replace
- It has 24 beautiful patterns
- It has a reflective label
What Dogs Love about it?
- The inside is flat and comfy
What We Don’t like:
- It only comes in two sizes
EzyDog Neo Classic Wide Dog Collar
- Inch: 17.5 to 32.75 and 1.75 inches wide
- Adjustability: Yes
- Reflective strips: Yes
- Fabric: Neoprene
- Machine Washable: No
- Made In The USA: No
- Warranty: Yes, for 60 days and one-year defect-free guarantee
- Best for: Adjustable wide collar
Made of 100% neoprene, you do not have to worry about washing this one because you can run it under the water since it is waterproof. The stitching is reflective too so your dog can be seen if he happens to get loose at night and the stainless steel D-ring helps you make sure he is secure.
The sizes include large for 17.5 to 21 inches, x-large for 21 to 24.5 inches, xx-large for 24.5 to 28.5, and the xxx-large is for 28.5 to 32.75 inches. There are four colors to choose from and they are all cool. The quick-release buckle makes it a snap to get on and off and the velcro sizing feature makes sizing it fast too.
What We Like:
- It is easy to clean
- The 60 day warranty is better than some
- It has a velcro sizing feature
What Dogs Love about it?
- The neoprene is soft and comfortable
What We Don’t like:
- It is rather expensive
Riparo Genuine
- Inch: 11 to 29 with a width of .75 to 2 inches
- Adjustability: Yes
- Reflective strips: No
- Fabric: Leather and sheepskin
- Machine Washable: No
- Made In The USA: No
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
- Best for: leather wide dog collar
The sizing on this collar varies similarly to the last one. Small is 11 to 13.5 inches and .75 inches wide, the medium is 14.5 to 17.5 inches and one inch wide, large is 18 to 21 inches and 1.5 inches wide, and the XXL is 26 to 29 inches and two inches wide.
The full-grain leather and stainless steel D-ring and buckle reduce corrosion and rust so it is made to last a long time. With regular use and care, this collar will last a lifetime. And it comes in five different colors and styles so your pup can run around in style.
What We Like:
- The company donates 1% of their profits to no-kill shelters
- It has a wide variety of colors and styles
- It is made of real leather
What Dogs Love about it?
- The lambskin underneath is comfortable
- The material is flexible
What We Don’t like:
- The small is less than one inch wide
ThinkPet Heavy-Duty Dog Collar with Handle
- Inch: 18.5 to 26 and 1.5 inches thick
- Adjustability: Yes
- Reflective strips: Yes
- Fabric: Nylon
- Machine Washable: No
- Made In The USA: No
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
- Best for: padded wide dog collar
Made of 1000D nylon, this collar is a good one as long as your dog is not too rough on it. It is thick and padded but the plastic front snap is easy for him to get out of once he learns how to do it. Smart dogs will be out of the collar in under a minute! But if your dog is well-trained, this will work well.
The handle on the back is nice but you have to be careful because of the front button so it does not get pressed while you are holding it. One unique thing that is nice is that it has two metal hooks so you can attach the leash from the front or the back.
What We Like:
- Two leash rings
- Made of 1000D nylon
- Reflective strips for nighttime walks
What Dogs Love about it?
- The extra padding is comfy
What We Don’t like:
- The front snap can come undone too easily
- It only comes in one size and color
Beirui Rhinestones Dog Collars
- Inch: 13 to 24 with a width of 2 inches
- Adjustability: Yes
Reflective strips: No - Fabric: Polyurethane leather
- Machine Washable: No
- Made In The USA: No
- Warranty: Yes, for 60 days
- Best for: stylish dog wide collar
The fit varies for this collar depending on the size. The x-small fits 13 to 16 inches, the small fits 15 to 18 inches, the medium is for 17 to 20 inches, the large fits 19 to 22 inches, and the x-large fits 21 to 24 inches. The rhinestones are pretty but not very safe since they tend to fall off and can be eaten by your pup. And they make it difficult to clean as well.
That being said, the stones are attached with an alloy so they are more durable than most fancy studded collars and their warranty is for 60 days so they must be made pretty well. The metal D-ring and buckle make it even more durable and it is wider than the first two at two inches wide.
What We Like:
- It comes in five sizes and colors
- It is a full two inches wide
- It has a 60 day warranty
What Dogs Love about it?
- It looks fancy
- It fits well
What We Don’t like:
- The rhinestones fall off
CollarDirect Martingale Dog Collar
- Inch: 12 to 24 inches and 1.5 inches wide
- Adjustability: Yes
- Reflective strips: No
- Fabric: Nylon
- Machine Washable: No
- Made In The USA: No
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
This is a beautiful dog collar with three different vibrant color patterns to choose from. The metal clasp and D-ring are solid steel and the material of the collar seems very durable. The double stitching makes it even stronger. Your pooch is going to be the most stylish dog at the dog park in this beautiful collar.
It comes in three sizes as well. Medium is for neck sizes from 12 to 17 inches, large fits 15 to 20 inches, and the x-large is for neck sizes from 19 to 24 inches. The Martindale style is perfect for training purposes and for dogs that pull. It will get tighter when he pulls but it will not get so tight that it will hurt him.
What We Like:
- The patterns are beautiful
- It is a Martindale style for training
- It fits almost any dog
What Dogs Love about it?
- It stays loose as long as he does not pull
- He looks sharp
What We Don’t like:
- It is only 1.5 inches wide
DEZIZEUSK9 Dog Collars
- Inch: 12 to 28 and 2 inches wide
- Adjustability: Yes
- Reflective strips: Yes, reflective threading
- Fabric: Nylon
- Machine Washable: No
- Made In The USA: No
- Warranty: Yes, for 30 days
Another nylon collar with double pinholes for a more sturdy fit, this one only comes in large, which is 12 to 20 inches, or x-large, which is 20 to 28 inches. The metal buckle is good but not as strong as the other collars because it is thinner metal. It shows that it comes in five colors but only two are available.
Each of the collars is a full two inches wide no matter the size so that is good and the pawesome US American flag patch is pretty cool too. You can also add name patches to the velcro if you like.
What We Like:
- It has reflective threading so he can be seen in the dark
- It is two inches wide
What Dogs Love about it?
- It fits comfortably
What We Don’t like:
- It only comes in two sizes
- The metal is thin
Bestia Maximus genuine leather dog collar
- Inch: 16.7 to 29.6 and 2.5 inches wide
- Adjustability: Yes
- Reflective strips: No
- Fabric: Leather and orthopedic foam with brass rivets
- Machine Washable: No
- Made In The USA: No
- Warranty: Yes, for 14 days
This is a beautiful collar made of 100% real leather and lamb leather lining to make sure your pooch’s neck does not get chafed. The brass rivets and jewels are stunning and look fantastic on any dog. It also has an orthopedic foam cushion inside for comfort.
It comes in four sizes. Medium is 16.7 to 19.7 inches, large is 19.7 to 23.6 inches, xl is 22.6 to 26.6 inches, and XXL is 25.6 to 29.6 inches. But for such an expensive price, you would think that the warranty would be longer than 14 days.
What We Like:
- It is absolutely gorgeous
- It is real leather
- They have four sizes
What Dogs Love about it?
- The ortho cushioning is comfy
- The leather and lamb lining help him stay cool
What We Don’t like:
- It is very expensive
- The warranty is only 14 days
Excellent Elite Spanker
- Inch: 15.5 to 19.5(M) or 19 to 23(L) or 21 to 25(XL) with a width of 1.5 inches
- Adjustability: Yes
- Reflective strips: No
- Fabric: Nylon
- Machine Washable: No
- Made In The USA: No
- Warranty: Yes, for 90 days
This one has a longer warranty, which we think says something about the company itself. They believe in their product so they are willing to back it up, which is always good to know. It is also made with durable nylon and solid metal buckles with five metal double-pin settings for adjustment.
The 1.5-inch collar also comes in five colors as well as three adjustable sizes so it can fit almost any pooch. The padding under the collar is great for comfort and the D-ring is made of solid metal and is double-stitched for durability. And like the previous collar, it has a velcro spot for a name tag.
What We Like:
- It has double nylon and padding for strength
- Features front solid metal D-ring and buckle
- Durable 1000D material
What Dogs Love about it?
- The padding is comfy
- It looks great
What We Don’t like:
- It is not machine washable
Common Questions from Dog Parents
Are wide collars better for dogs?
Wide dog collars are better for dogs with large necks or those dogs with sleek heads like a Whippet or Greyhound. Regular-sized collars are not good for dogs with large necks because the force is distributed over a greater area. But wide collars may not be better for small dogs with short necks since they can be “ruff” on their neck.
What is the purpose of wide dog collars?
A wide collar stays on your dog better if he has a head the same size as his neck or if he tries to get out of his collar. It makes getting out a lot more difficult than a regular-sized collar would be.
How often should you change a dog’s collar?
Do dogs like their collars taken off?
If you have ever watched your dog after removing his collar you already know the answer to this. The real question is why they like it. Watch your pup as he smells his collar and acts crazy since he smells himself on it. He cannot figure out how you just took a part of him off and let him sniff it.
What is the best fabric for collars?
The best fabric for a dog collar is nylon since it is more durable and soft than other materials. Leather is good too but it can be too stiff for some dogs.
What width is considered a wide dog collar?
A wide collar is typically at least 1.5 inches but for a tiny dog it may be as small as 1.25 inches. But a large dog usually needs a collar at least two inches wide.
The Final Woof
The winner of our roundup review on wide dog collars is the 1.5-inch wide One Tigress Collar because it is durable, has a double heavy-duty metal buckle and eye fitting system with eight settings, and it is really nice looking.
Not only that, but it is also a very good price at less than $20 with five colors and three sizes to choose from. A big plus for this one is the D-ring that is tested for a pull strength of 661 pounds! You really cannot beat that.
