How Sizing Works - Complete Collar Sizing Guide

How to Size Your BIG DOG CHAINS® Collar

Getting the perfect fit is essential for your dog's comfort and safety. Watch our sizing video below and follow our comprehensive guide to find the ideal collar size for your dog.

Step 1: Measure Your Dog's Neck

Use a soft measuring tape to measure around your dog's neck where the collar will sit. The tape should be snug but comfortable – you should be able to fit two fingers between the tape and your dog's neck.

Pro Tip: If you don't have a measuring tape, use a piece of string to measure around your dog's neck, then measure the string with a ruler.

Step 2: Add 2-3 Inches for Comfort

Once you have your dog's neck measurement, add 2-3 inches to determine the ideal collar length. This ensures a comfortable fit with room for adjustment.

Example: If your dog's neck measures 18 inches, order a collar that's 20-21 inches long.

Step 3: Choose Your Link Size

BIG DOG CHAINS® collars are available in five link sizes. Choose based on your dog's size and strength:

0.5" Link Size

Best for: XSmall to medium dogs (up to 40 lbs)
Breeds: Beagles, Cocker Spaniels, French Bulldogs, smaller mixed breeds

0.75" Link Size

Best for: Small dogs (30-60 lbs)
Breeds: Border Collies, Bulldogs, Australian Shepherds, medium mixed breeds

1" Link Size

Best for: Medium to large dogs (50-80 lbs)
Breeds: Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Boxers

1.25" Link Size

Best for: X-large dogs (70-120 lbs)
Breeds: Rottweilers, Dobermans, Great Danes, Mastiffs, large mixed breeds

1.75" Link Size

Best for: XX-large and giant breeds (100+ lbs)
Breeds: English Mastiffs, Saint Bernards, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, Cane Corsos

Sizing Chart Quick Reference

Dog Size Weight Range Recommended Link Size
X-Small Up to 40 lbs 0.5"
Small 30-60 lbs 0.75" - 1"
Medium
50-80 lbs 1" - 1.25"
XLarge 70-120 lbs 1.25" - 1.75"
XXLarge 100+ lbs 1.75"

Important Sizing Notes

  • Between sizes? We recommend sizing up for comfort and adjustability.
  • Growing puppies: Consider ordering a larger size to accommodate growth.
  • Thick-coated breeds: Add an extra inch to account for fur thickness.
  • Training collars: Follow specific sizing instructions included with training collar products and review our choker policy.

Why Proper Sizing Matters

A properly fitted collar ensures your dog's safety and comfort. Too tight can cause discomfort or breathing issues, while too loose risks the collar slipping off. With BIG DOG CHAINS®' patented Big Dog Clasp® technology and lifetime warranty, you can trust that a properly sized collar will provide years of reliable performance.

Still Need Help?

Our customer support team is here to help you find the perfect size! Contact us with your dog's breed, weight, and neck measurement, and we'll provide personalized sizing recommendations.

Ready to order? Browse our full collection of collars in all sizes and explore our vibrant Colors Collection!