5 Best Puppy Collars for Small & Young Dogs

Bringing home a new puppy goes hand-in-hand with shopping around for the best puppy collars to keep them safe and comfortable. Puppies and small-breed dogs have unique collar needs their necks are fragile, cramped little bodies tend to grow quickly! While adult dogs have more firm windpipes, puppies’ are still forming and soft; applying as little pressure as possible is key. Which is why comfort, weight and safety should be high priority when it comes to selecting collars for small dogs. The Best Collar for a Small Breed Puppy The ideal collar for tiny breed puppy is poor weight, great fitting and gentle with soft or rather non-abrasive material. Soft nylon or padded fabric are excellent selections as they won’t scratch your pup’s skin, nowadays the options are endless quite literally. You’ll also need a collar that grows with your puppy and is easy to get on for training. In this post, we’ll cover the things to look for in a dog adjustable collar for puppies, our 5 best collars for small and young dogs (puppies) with reviews, a sizing guide, how puppy collars compare to harnesses, safety tips when using puppy collars and harnesses as well as customer FAQs. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to choose a safe collar that fits your young dog just right as he grows.

What to Consider in a Puppy Collar

When selecting a collar for your itty-bitty pup, it’s not all about simply choosing a cute design — you also have to take into consideration some key features for safety and comfort. There are a few things you should consider when choosing the best collar for your puppy:

1. Correct Fit: Make sure the collar is comfortably tight, not too tight. A good general rule is the “two finger” test – you should be able to fit two fingers underneath your puppy’s collar around his/her neck. This avoids choking or rubbing, and ensures your little guy can’t wriggle out! Always check for a snug fit and remember that puppies can wriggle their way out of collars that are too loose.(source dogids.com)
2. A collar with adjustable length: Puppies grow so make sure you have a collar that will fit your puppy as it gets older. Opt for a collar that has multiple holes or a sliding adjustment, so the collar can expand as your puppy grows. You will probably have to adjust in either direction at least weekly and scale up entirely eventually. Most puppy collars have a large adjustment range to allow your pet some growing room without having the collar be too big.
3. Lightweight: Choose a soft, lightweight fabric such as nylon or neoprene that won’t be too heavy for your puppy. Puppies will be most comfortable with soft, pliable belts since they are smaller and more fragile than adult dogs. Smooth nylon webbing, cushioned fabric or even lightweight leather should work. These materials will also withstand playtime as well nylon, especially, is strong but lightweight and won’t scratch or irritate your puppy’s sensitive skin.
4. Buckle Style: A young pup would have to be my choice, either a quick release buckle (plastic usually.) The plastic quick-release buckles are easy for snapping on and off (which is particularly helpful if you have a squirmy puppy!) and open in record time when the pressure is on. Check if the buckle is strong and large enough for your dog’s size – X small collar have a slightly curved smaller buckle for toy breeds. There even are puppy collars with breakaway buckles, designed to unclasp under pressure (a safety measure should a collar get caught). Springing for a standard belt-style buckle (for instance on leather) will be more reliable and last longer-using when putting harnessed dogs in intense situations.Other kinds of collar buckles are safer because they can’t open as easily.
5. Width & weight: Consider collar width and overall weight, and scale it to your puppy’s size. 3/8″ (0.375 inch) wide Small puppy collars fit toy breeds and manufactured for young and puppies, while a thicker medium-breed 5/8 inch(Slightly small from the collar too). Stay away from wide or thick collars on a small dog you don’t want it to feel heavy. Always put comfort first and select a collar that is comfortable for your pup to wear all day. Padded or rolled collars can add comfort by preventing the collar from chafing on your dog’s neck, and they prevent hair from matting.
6. Safety Features: Little pups are curious and can accidentally get into trouble, so look for collars that have added safety features. If visibility is a concern, you can’t go wrong with reflective stitching or bright colors; they help your puppy stand out during early morning and late evening walks. This is vital particularly if you walk by the roads or down the narrow alleyways in dim light. Again, breakaway buckles could save a puppy’s life if her collar gets caught on a fence or crate (but as always, monitor wisely; collars should generally be taken off during heavy playtime or crating). Also avoid any collar with tiny dangling charms or bits a puppy could gnaw off and choke on. The collar should be easy and safe, dedicated to the puppy’s safety.

Take into account all of these things fit, adjustability, material of construction, buckle type, weight and safety features such as reflective stitching or built-in tag holders and you’ll certainly choose a collar that keeps your puppy comfortable and safe. Then, we will discuss a few of the best collars for small and young pups that fit this profile.

Top 5 Puppy Collars for Small & Young Dogs

Of course, every puppy is different, but all collars listed below are an excellent choice for small breeds and young pups. The top 5 picks all offer something different – from ultra-light “first collars” for the tiniest toy breeds to the more durable options that serve young adventurers and escape artists. I’ll give you a brief description of each collar, some key pros and cons, and which types of puppies it’s most suitable for.

This Blueberry Pet collar is highly rated as a puppy’s first collar for its level of comfort and health standards. It is constructed from durable nylon webbing, which is then layered with a pad of neoprene on the inside to protect your puppy’s neck. The collar is adjustable and is available in sizes that are small enough for a young puppy. Even more, The neon collar has a woven reflective thread for better visibility in the dark. This collar is both strong and gentle. While the ergonomic neoprene layer on the inside guarantees that no rubbing occurs, the 3M reflective threads are meant to create your little pet more visible at night. The strong plastic buckle of quick release, for putting it on or off a wriggly puppy, works well. The Blueberry Pet Soft & Safe puppy collar is an excellent everyday item for a pup that is growing at the right pace. Here, comfort, safety, and trend are struck.

Perfect for

Tiny, small and medium breed puppies of any type that require a comfortable introduction to wearing a collar. It’s particularly good for puppies which will be doing many short walks or outdoor adventures early on because the padding and reflectivity add safety. I’d say a shih-tzu or french bulldog puppy would look good in this soft collar. It’s also available for larger-breed puppies in bigger sizes, but they might grow out the smallest size fairly quickly.) For the super teensy toy breeds (like Yorkies, and chihuahuas under ~5–6 lbs) you may need to start with an even smaller collar (Ive included a link to Bali Designs Li’l Pals collar below here!) and then move on to a this Blueberry collar once they grow up.

The Max and Neo Dog Collar is a light weight nylon collar that’s ideal for small breed/ puppy dogs. It’s crafted from thick but soft nylon webbing that won’t scratch up your puppy’s neck. Max and Neo collars are also vastly lightweight a crucial feature to not burden a small puppy with. In fact, vets say small puppies actually do best with soft, lightweight materials due their fragile necks — which this model is made out of. Extra Small fits approximately 8.5″-11″ neck (is narrower), for slender little pups. The hardware is even small-dog-scaled: The metal D-ring has an extra loop for ID tags to easily clip it on with one hand, and the XS size features a basic quick-release buckle (the larger sizes lock). And as a bonus, Max and Neo is a company that donates one collar to a dog rescue for every collar sold, so they’re also doing good while you make your purchase. Two reflective stitching strips on the collar increase safety when walking at night, but do not reduce flexibility. It’s available in multiple bright hues. This collar offers that same great grade and puppy friendly design at an affordable price.

Perfect for

Little breed puppies like Chihuahua, Yorkie, Maltese, Jack Russell or any puppy under ~20 lbs that requires a super lightweight collar. Owners that value comfort and safety over fashion will adore this collar. It’s also just a good way to support rescue organizations and receive a quality product. Lots of puppy owners wind up using the Max & Neo as that first “real” collar for their pup because it’s gentle and adjustable, but then move on to a thicker collar by the time their dog is full-grown. All in all, one of the best puppy collars if you’re in search of simplicity, comfort and a little bit of philanthropy.

The GoTags custom Puppy comes with a cute logo on the front of this puppy collar and ID tag for dogs, with no noise or weight rings. This is adorable, adjustable small dog collar made from a hard wearing yet soft tightly woven nylon which can be personalized with your puppy’s name and telephone number permanently stitched into the collar. If you want a little extra peace of mind, personalized collars like this are ideal for an adventurous pup who manages to slip away; someone intercepting the runaway pet would be able to see contact info immediately on the collar. It’s also good for small puppies and tiny breeds, where an ID tag might be heavy. The collar is very well-made of smooth nylon and it comes in plenty of colors (with the options for thread color on the embroidery as well). Stitching is built to last and maintains its integrity even after constant wear.Cuffs won’t fray or fade. It features a plastic quick-release buckle for ease of use. They come in four sizes (approximately 8″ neck up to a 26″ neck on the largest) so you can get a size for your puppy and adjust as they grow. You could effectively get both a collar and ID tag in a single product with this collar. It is a popular choice for new puppy owners looking for that extra safety measure.

Best for

Little breed puppies like Chihuahua, Yorkie, Maltese, Jack Russell or any puppy under ~20 lbs that requires a super lightweight collar. Owners that value comfort and safety over fashion will adore this collar. It’s also just a good way to support rescue organizations and receive a quality product. Lots of puppy owners wind up using the Max & Neo as that first “real” collar for their pup because it’s gentle and adjustable, but then move on to a thicker collar by the time their dog is full-grown. All in all, one of the best puppy collars if you’re in search of simplicity, comfort and a little bit of philanthropy.

The Li’l Pals grooming line encourages a stronger bond between the owner and pet and allows owners to get know their pets better. This is not your average buckle on a thin collar: 1/2″ wide with super tiny hardware to boot, this skinny buckle is perfect for pups who pull! It’s essentially a mini version of the regular collar, but is designed to fit the necks of the little ones puppy collars don’t fit boutique. They are toy breed or very young puppy size the Petite Extra-Small fits a 6″–8″ neck, and the Petite Small fits 8″–12″, so they cover those first few months.”. Though small, the Li’l Pals is made from sturdy nylon and features a curved snap-lock buckle to close it with the right degree of tension (that locks into place without adding that extra hassle!). The curve buckle design fits a puppy’s neck well and won’t scratch their skin, safely for puppies. The collars are available in a range of cute patterns and colors (tiny paw prints and daisies, anyone?; check out that plaid bow) so your little fur baby can stay stylish. Owners appreciate that it provides a secure, adjustable fit even for 2-3 lb puppies who would otherwise slip out of an oversized collar. It’s great as a “first collar” for a toy breed or runt of the litter puppy. Remember: Because it’s so skinny, it’s really intended for lightweight use (ID tags and such, not heavy pulling). Once your pup gets bigger, you’ll need a wider one, but this offers a safe, comfortable beginning.

Perfect for

Teacup puppies and miniature dog breeds. For these smaller breeds, as well as any puppy of 8–10 pounds or so and less, the Coastal Li’l Pals collar is an ideal starter. It’s also perfect for breeders or owners of new pups who want to collar-identify litter mates (because they’re inexpensive, you can choose different patterns for each puppy). This tiny little collar is the perfect way for your small dog to wear ID and get used to wearing a collar. Just be sure to trade up for a wider collar once your pup grows, or starts taking leash training seriously.

Hair towel measuring 28″x30″ does not stretch (such practical and purposeful features)Is your puppy a big fan of puddles, jumping outside in the rain or other outdoor indoor activities that can get messy? The Dogline Biothane Collar is extremely comfortable for active dogs and water dogs. Biothane is a high-tech material consisting of polyester webbing with a waterproof polymer coating – it’s essentially an incredibly tough, pliable bridle leather substitute that doesn’t absorb water. Water just rolls off this collar, so it won’t get soggy or start smelling like that “wet dog” odor you always seem to find in your regular old collar. That way, even if your mutt gets splashing The Dogline Biothane collar is also very durable with a break strength of around 500 lbs per quarter inch of width, more than any puppy will ever need! But it’s still flexible and light weight, with smooth edges for comfort. This is just the surface but can be very easily wiped clean so great when you’ve been playing in the mud. The collar closes with a traditional buckle and D-Ring to attach leash/tag. Dogline makes this collar in a variety of widths and sizes (the 1/2″ or the 5/8″ wide would work for puppies and small breeds). There are roughly heading 11 bright colors to choose from with these rugs. If you are looking for a ’set it and forget it’ collar that can withstand the elements and your busy puppy, this one works.

Idea for

Puppies on the move, outdoor play and water-loving dogs. If you have a Labrador, a golden retriever, a spaniel or any of the water-loving breeds, this is a fantastic collar with which to start them off no smelly wet collars here. It’s also great for puppies who accompany you on hikes, camping trips or just like to roll in the mud. For instance, a lab puppy who plunges through every puddle or a beagle that quarters the rain-soaked backyard would do well with a waterproof collar. Some owners like to use the Biothane collar as a “rugged play collar” and have something softer that can be used indoors. But given that it’s comfy, it can totally serve as the full-time collar too. It’s basically the safe collar for puppies that’s low-maintenance for you, but a high-performance puppy collar for your rambunctious pup.

How to measure and find the correct collar size for puppy.

You need the right size collar: A too tight collar is dangerous and uncomfortable, one that’s too loose can slip off or get hooked up on things. Puppies are growing animals, and so you’ll probably need to measure regularly for the first year of their life and maybe even go through two sizes. Here is this how to measure and choose the right collar size for your puppy: see further help see How to Size a Prong Collar for Your Breed.

1. To measure your puppy’s neck: Never take the measurement from a collar that is too tight only a slightly loose collar can be measured this way Measure using a soft measuring tape, or by simply wrapping a piece of string (that you can later compare to a ruler) around the thickest part of your newfie neck. This is generally at the base of the neck (near where your dog’s collar would sit, not high up by their ears). Tighten the tape, and then slack off a little; you’re measuring for the circumference of your neck rather than its sawed-in-half look. It’s always good to double-check ‘n measure to make 100 percent you are accurate. For very wiggly puppies, having an assistant feed a treat can help keep him still while you measure.
2. A Little ‘Breathing’ Room: With that number, add about 1 to 1.5 inches for good measure (and to accommodate any weight your puppy may gain). Another way to look at this is the “two-finger rule” – the collar should be loose enough where you can easily slide two fingers beneath it. Also, I added this little extra length to show you that the collar WILL NOT BE TOO TIGHT and there is space for some grow room! (For tiny breeds, you could add more like 2 cm; for medium/large, a bit more if the growth is faster.)
3. Find the Best Size Range: Using your new, adjusted measurement, peruse the sizing chart for that collar or its product description. Collars are generally sold in a range of sizes (those terms such as “Size XS: fits 8″–12” neck-size ”), and cost then depends on the size. You want the size collar your puppy needs (and that extra inch) to be about in the middle of that. This also means you can adjust as necessary! Do not buy a collar that only works if your measurement is at either extreme – the largest setting all fits as you are measuring just now – it may not be very helpful as the puppy grows (or slims down). For instance, if your little guy or girl’s neck measures 10″ then a collar that adjusts from 8″ to 12″ would be ideal (as 10 is mid-range). A 10″ to 14″ collar, for example, will probably be a bit too loose at it’s most contracted position and a 9″ max would obviously be way too small. When in question, go a size up, particularly for fast-growing breeds, but make sure that you can adjust it down far enough not to slip off.
4. Do the Fit Test Often Once you’ve got that collar, fit it on your pup via the buckle or slide and do the two-finger test: You should be able to slip two fingers between his neck and collar, but no more than that (not so loose that it could get caught on his jaw or fall off over the ears). For puppies, you want to check the fit of the collar every few days to a week. They can actually grow out of a collar in as little as one to two weeks when they are having growth spurts! If the collar feels a little tight, loosen it right away. If it’s already at the end of its adjustment and is snug, it’s time to graduate up a size in collar. For young pups, you may go through a couple of collars as they grow out that’s expected. You can save the old ones as a memento (or for a smaller dog in your house).
5. Special Sizing Tips for Tiny Puppies: If you record your puppy’s neck size and it falls below about 6 inches in circumference, then you may need to use a collar that is labeled extra-extra small or “kitten” the first few months. A lot of the “small dog” collars I’ve seen start at 8″ or one thing. As we mentioned with the Li’l Pals collar, there are collars made for 6″–8″ necks. Another workaround for really young puppies if they’re under 8 weeks old, is to use a kitten/puppy breakaway collar temporarily- but switch to a regular (non-breakaway) puppy collar one for training and walks once the pup is a bit older. Puppies in such small collars should be watched all the time because they are likely to be more fragile.

In short, measure carefully, allow some growing room and never forget that the collar is not too tight by checking the two-fingers method. Feel loose? Better slightly too loose, based on how they fit you for your first trip and adjust weekly. The properly adjusted collar will stay on your puppy in the secure and comfortable way it deserves.

Puppy Collars: Safety Tips for How to use them

The collars are everyday (though quietly chic) tools in terms of dogs, but a few added safety measures when it comes to your puppy will provide additional protection for your little one every time you put the collar on. Follow these safety tips: You can see Dog Safety Guide.

• Get the Tightness Right: It should go without saying, but we’ll say it again never let your puppy’s collar be too tight. You need to be able to comfortably fit two fingers beneath the collar. The collar may be too tight if you see any irritation or fur loss around the neck. Conversely, don’t allow the collar to be so loose that a paw, jaw, or even a twig could potentially become wedged. A loose collar can also be backed out of by a smart dog! You can adjust the fit as your puppy gets bigger, fitting it so that both of these holes correspond to the girth of your dog comfortably.
• Take Off Your Pet’s Collar During Crate Time or Unsupervised Play: In Roughhousing, a collar could easily become snagged on the bars of a crate, on furniture or even your playmates teeth. When your dog is in a crate or playing alone without supervision with other dogs, it is safest to remove her. This means that the collar won’t be able to tighten around your dog’s neck and risk choking him/her if they were to get caught on something. A lot of puppy owners get used to taking the collar off at bedtime or for crate time, then putting it back on in the morning. Just make sure to put it back on when the pup goes out.
• Gradual Collar Introduction: Some puppies might not initially take to wearing a collar, they could scratch at it or try and wriggle out. The trick is incorporating them in a positive, low-stress manner. Begin with short sessions of walking the puppy through the house with the collar on, and reward them with treats or praise so they learn that it is associated with good things. Reapply the collar for 5 minutes during play time or mealtime, then remove it. Do this a couple of times, and slowly increase the length. The majority of puppies will adapt to the collar very quickly and not even notice it afterward. If your pup fidgets, offer it a treat or toy. Do not scold pupper for trying to scratch at the collar- as always, distraction and redirection are key! Discipline and reward will make collar training a non-problem.
• Avoid Rough Leash Tugging: If you do clip a leash to the collar (like when outside for potty breaks or training), keep it extra gentle. Never give sudden pulls to the leash; they are extremely painful and dangerous for a pup’s neck and throat. If your puppy is darting about or lunging, then you should be using a harness for that activity. Collars are best for routine control or to carry an ID tag not for intensive leash restraint. Similarly, never use a retractable leash attached to a collar on a young puppy; the sudden stop can snap their neck. Use a regular leash, and maintain slack so there are no jolts pulling on you.
• Do Not Use Aversive Collars on a Puppy: It’s paramount to avoid prong, choke and shock collars on puppies (or really tiny dogs). These brutal tools can inflict life-threatening physical and psychological injuries. Puppies are naïve learners, and trust in us to keep them safe; an aversive collar violates this trust, potentially causing damage to their growing necks and tracheas. If you’re experiencing training woes, use strictly positive reinforcement tactics. (You can use gentle martingale collars (limited-slip collars) to prevent escape in some breeds, too, but those are very different from a choke chain.) Bottom line: Keep it light and painless.
• Check the Condition of Your Puppy’s Collar Regularly: Puppies are adventurous and they’re going to get dirty, so make sure you keep an eye on your puppy’s collar condition. Inspect the leash for chew marks, frayed bits or a broken buckle. Also pay attention that it isn’t beginning to feel too tight (you may find your mask gets comfortable well before day 14). This is a contrast to other collars on which I had saved as a young dog owner, searching out used ones and goodwill-type puppy gear: Cleaning it out as necessary. If the collar becomes grimy, that nylon can be washed (or just replaced; they are not expensive). A clean cut is a safe cut!
• Monitor Fences and Bushes: If your pup races around the yard, watch for places where the collar can become caught, such as on low tree branches, shrubs or gaps in the fence. You could always take the collar off for big zoomies too (a breakaway is also useful for this). Some pet owners put the collar on only when leaving the house or walking in a supervised part of the yard, to reduce any potential for harm.

By following these safety guidelines, you’ll help your puppy avoid a negative and painful experience with their collar. It should just be something that is part of their routine now something that keeps them safe (with ID) and maybe even means fun times (many dogs get excited when they see the collar as it’s associated with walks or outings!). Keep it comfortable, keep checking the fit, and by all means put your pup’s comfort before anything that feels fashionable or easy. But only when safety comes first, and style second.

FAQs: Puppy Collars & Pups

Conclusion

Picking the right collar for your little or young dog will pave the way for safe and thrilling outings together. Keep in mind, the best puppy collars are the ones that value comfort, fit and safety over fancy looks. Never put a hard or heavy collar on your puppy’s neck, make sure the collar is lightweight and soft around their neck, ensure it grows with them, and that it is used correctly (harnesses for walks, collars for ID and gentle motions). By the time you finish reading this guide, with all its tips and recommendations, you’ll also be primed to choose a collar that your puppy can wear with tail-wagging pride.

While your puppy may soon grow into a confident and responsible dog, you will someday reflect on that miniature first collar fondly. When it comes to each stage, just play it safe and switch out sizes or styles as necessary. Your puppy’s collar is more than just part of a hipster dog trend – it’s a method to convey their identity and ensure they are safe. So here’s to many more fun walks and play sessions with your well-collared (and well-loved) fur baby!