What size does my dog need? (And why you should NEVER measure the old collar!)

Let's start with the most common mistake. Many people lay their old collar flat on a table and measure it. Don't do this.

This article is part of our complete guide to dog collars.

• Flat vs. round: A collar lying flat on a table has a different length than when it's wrapped around a neck.
• Different brands: A size 'M' at one brand is an 'L' with us.
• The result: If you measure your old collar, you'll almost always order a size too big from DWAM.

At Dog with a Mission, we've been making our own collars for years, using our own sizing system tailored to how leather behaves. That's why sizing works a little differently here than with other brands.

🐕 What collar size fits my dog?

Every dog is different, but there are guidelines by breed and dog type.

Indication (measuring always remains most important):

• Dachshund → usually XS or S
• French Bulldog → usually S or M
• Border Collie → usually M
• Labrador → usually M or L
• German Shepherd → usually L or XL

Note: these are averages. Your dog's actual neck size always leads.

📏 How to measure correctly (in 3 steps)

Forget what you're used to. Grab a flexible measuring tape and your dog.

1. The right spot Let your dog stand or sit calmly. Place the tape around the neck, where the collar normally sits.

2. Measure SNUGLY on the skin This is crucial: pull the tape so it fits snugly around the neck. Keep no fingers between the tape and the neck, and don't measure "loosely".

• Why? Our leather collars shape themselves to the neck and stretch slightly with use. If you measure too loosely now, the collar will end up much too big.

3. Check the table Read off the exact number of centimeters. This is the neck circumference. Look up these centimeters in our size chart on the product page.

Got your measurement? Browse our collars by size to see what's available in your size.

🤔 Torn between two sizes?

Is your dog's neck size right between two sizes? (For example: you measure 33 cm and can't decide between size S and M.)

Always choose the SMALLER size.

People tend to size up "just in case" (like with clothing), but with leather collars, that's the wrong call.

• Leather lives: Over time, saddle leather becomes more supple and slightly roomier.
• Fit: A collar that's too big will twist, "swim" around the neck, and won't sit as nicely.
• The finger test: after measuring, can you still slide a finger under the tape? Then it was too loose, measure again snugly on the skin, with no gap.
• Does your dog have a thick, full coat? Measure as close to the skin as possible, not over the fur. A thick coat quickly adds a few centimeters that aren't really there.
• Bottom line: Right on the edge? Size down, not up!

💡 No measuring tape at home?

No flexible measuring tape? No problem.

1. Use a phone charging cable or a piece of string.
2. Wrap it snugly around the neck.
3. Put your thumb on the point where the cable crosses.
4. Lay the cable against a tape measure or ruler to read the centimeters.

Still unsure after measuring? Feel free to reach out via chat or email. We're happy to take a look with you, so your dog can steal the show right away with the perfect fit!