Measure the highest part of neck behind ears and ordering dogs collar size will be at least 3” longer than the biggest neck size in ordered size. Measures your pet’s neck to ensure you are getting the right fit, or leave us a note if you want buckle holes closer to tip or furthest from tip of collar) Ensuring that your dog has proper identification on its collar is extremely important because without it he can be easily lost without a way of being identified. Complete fit by adding/removing links such that the collar sits high, snug, scar-less and even (it may rotate slightly) but securely does not slide over ears.
Key takeaways
- Where to measure: High neck (behind ears), around.
- Stitch selection: 2.25 mm (accuracy for small dogs) and use 3.0-3.2 mm (larger/strong pullers).
- Fit rule: High + snug + even; by links, not over-tightening.
- Seasonal dispatch: Coats morph maintain extra links.
- Daily miles: Front-clip harness; save prong for short, coached reps.
Quick Measurement Checklist (60 seconds)
- Dog standing on level floor.
- Repeat with a soft tape measure, 4 inches above each ear level.
- Measure the neck circumference(A) with a measuring tape; do not measure the old collar.
- Select starting gauge and assumed base length, you will be adjusting + or – on-dog.
Prong Collar Size Chart (Starting Points)
Start with this fit, then adjust by adding and/or removing links until the collar is high, snug, perfect.
| Neck at High Point | Suggested Gauge | Typical Base & Add-Ons* | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10–12 in (25–30 cm) | 2.25 mm | Small base + 0–2 links | Toy/small breeds; prioritize light hardware |
| 12–14 in (30–36 cm) | 2.25–3.0 mm | Small/Med base + 1–3 links | Pick 2.25 for precision, 3.0 if powerful |
| 14–16 in (36–41 cm) | 3.0 mm | Med base + 0–3 links | Common “medium” fit range |
| 16–18 in (41–46 cm) | 3.0–3.2 mm | Med/Large base + 0–3 links | Strong, athletic dogs |
| 18–22 in (46–56 cm) | 3.2–3.8 mm | Large base + 1–4 links | Big/giant breeds; watch hardware weight |
Base” = length of the manufacturer’s factory offering for that particular gauge of string. Always check dog’s neck for proper fitting before removing tags/ packaging.
Gauge 101: Because Thickness Alters Feel
- 2.25mm: the ultimate signal; for small/medium dogs or handlers who like ultra-light stimulation. May deform if over-splayed. Adjust with links, not brute force.
- 3.0 mm: Middle of the road clarity/durability; good choice for many medium–large dogs.
- 3.2–3.8 mm: Heavy-duty; great for very large or strong dogs but can deaden micro-cues on small necks.
Rule: Choose the lightest gauge that won’t warp with your dog’s normal load.
Step-by-Step Fit (On the Dog)
- Assemble to your starting length.
- Put the closed collar high up on the back of the ears, making sure it is a perfect circle.
- Rotate test You can twist it on the face a little bit, not across the ears.
- Two-finger check: Put your two fingers under the resting prong.
- Place the center plate under chin and behind jaw then adjust for snug fit with leash in place where your hand normally clips to your leash.
- If your center is quick-release, make sure you have a solid click and press-to-open action.
If it slides down the neck, it’s too large or lop-sided take out a segment or re-make the circle so that width is even.
Seasonal & Coat Changes (Think Ahead)
- Double coat (Husky / GSD / Akita) Add +1 link in winter, −1 after heavy groom.
- Weight changes: Recheck monthly; growing pups, slim-downs affect fit.
- Store backlinks: It’s cheap insurance for staying up high on the results pages.
Common Fit Problems (Fast Fixes)
Shoulders to chest: Collar is too Big/Egg shaped #8211; remove a link, reshape the true circle and check placement is high enough.
Hot spots / pressure marks: You over tightened to “make it work” → Remove a link or two instead and put back the two-finger slack.
Twisted orientation: Rebuilt so the center plate is centered; leash ring lands wherever your natural clip was.
Connectors gapping / burrs: Replace damaged connectors, smooth edges, and do not use bent hardware.
Quick-Release Centers: Race Face’s “all-new” system, but does it affect sizing?
No the math is the same. They do, in fact, make thresholds safer (doors, elevators) and assist handlers with gloves or weak grips. If more than one person is working the dog, you have those quick releases to keep the dog calm between send aways.
When to Use a Harness Instead
If a front-clip or dual-clip harness is needed (as for dogs that pull on the leash, those who must be run if not trained to run by following), and you don’t want pressure applied to your dog’s neck as he pulls on the collar, have two pieces of equipment: a flat collar for I.D. and an emotional tagline and another with a clip in front or two clips in different places. Only use the prong for brief, coached precision sessions.
FAQs
Sizing a prong like a flat buckle collar?
No Prongs are one size- prongs are added or removed to adjust how high the necklace sits around the neck and how snug it fits.
How can I tell if it’s not too tight?
You can slip two fingers under a prong when the collar is at rest, and turn it along its axis ever so slightly before it will slide over the ears.
2.25 or 3.0 for a medium dog?
Go with 2.25 mm If you really care about accuracy and your dog is not a powerhouse, go to 2.25 mm. If your medium size dog is strong and gears up quickly than 3.0 mm.
Plastic/rubber tips do they change size?
Not the sizing math. They bring bulk and alter feel; examine caps so edges remain smooth.
And should I move the bed my groomer says it’s raised up too high?
No high above the ears is where it’s worn clean. If it moves you can resize with links.
Final Thoughts
Great prong work is fit work. Take them behind the ears, choose the lightest gauge that will hold shape and finesse into a circle using links not muscle. Re-check fit as coats and seasons change, stow spare links in your drawer and rack up daily miles on a front-clip harness. Clean fit clear communication.
