Selecting the right collar for your long-haired dog is crucial for comfort, well-being, and happiness. The ideal collar should be gentle on your dog's fur while providing the necessary control and security.
Double-coated dogs, curly-coated dogs, and long-haired dogs, with their thick and luxurious coats, require special consideration when choosing a collar. The wrong type can lead to fur damage, matting, and discomfort.
Investing in the right collar ensures that your long-haired companion remains comfortable, healthy, and looking their best.
How We've Made Our Selection
Our editors have taken the time to acquire knowledge of each product's company, study product specifics, read consumer feedback, and independently select the best options. This ensures that the quality of each collar for long-haired dogs is right for you and your home. Remember, what works for one consumer, may only work for some.
Top 5 Best Collars for Long-Haired Dogs
1. Mighty Paw Neoprene Padded Dog Collar
What We Like:
- Best for long-coated dogs with hair that breaks easily.
- Great for sensitive skin.
- Neoprene lining provides cushioning.
- Ultimate comfort for active dogs.
- Reflective Stitching.
The Mighty Paw collar is designed for active dogs who enjoy running, jogging, hiking, swimming, and walking. It's made from strong materials for long-lasting durability. Also, it features special neoprene padding to provide cushioning and improved traction for maximum comfort.
Neoprene lining is ideal for all dog breeds as it works especially well for short-haired dogs, dogs with sensitive skin, and long-coated dogs whose hair breaks easily.
Mighty Paw has also added reflective thread on the collar's length for increased visibility after the sun goes down.
So if you've got an energetic pup that loves outdoor adventures, look no further than the Mighty Paw Sport Collar!
2. Coastal Pet, Circle T Round Dog Collar
What We Like:
- Handcrafted from durable leather.
- Made in the USA.
- Perfect for long-haired dogs.
- Great for sensitive skin.
- Softens over time.
Coastal Pet has you covered when you want the best for your fur baby! These handcrafted dog collars are durable, quality leather that softens during play.
This collar is long-lasting and incredibly durable and maintains a rich coloring and natural beauty guaranteed to turn heads. Best of all, these collars have been specially designed to be gentle on sensitive skin and long hair.
At Coastal Pet, they believe that our pets deserve the best — which is why they design and deliver our products with love so that people can trust us with the pets they love. With their collars, you can rest assured knowing your pup will stay stylish, safe, and comfy – because when it comes to their health & happiness, nobody does it better than Coastal Pet!
3. CollarDirect Rolled Leather Dog Collar
What We Like:
- Helps prevent matting and tangles.
- Made from 100% genuine leather.
- Strong and durable.
- Soft and supple leather.
- Handmade rolled collar.
CollarDirect is where they make the best basic dog collars from quality, genuine leather. Their collars are lightweight and supple but strong and durable so that no matter how much playtime your pup gets, the collar won't be a hindrance.
Even better, their rolled leather collar is especially suited for long-haired breeds as its round shape helps prevent tangling and damaging their fur.
At CollarDirect, they've been crafting pet products since 2014 and have been trusted by over 600k customers who found happiness with their small dog collars and more.
4. Mini Educator Dog Training Collar
What We Like:
- 1/2 mile range.
- Delivers pavlovian tone and tapping sensation.
- There is a stimulation range to choose from.
- Two-year warranty.
- Waterproof transmitter and receiver
- Tracking light.
The Mini Educator offers an intense tapping sensation that is unlike any other on the market. With customizable stimulation levels from 1 to 100 plus a selectable boost stimulus from 1 to 60, you'll get exactly the level of intensity you want for your pet. Plus, all models come with a Pavlovian tone, so you can also use sound as part of your training!
The transmitter and receiver are waterproof, making them highly durable and reliable. The shock resistance also means it will have no problem getting through tough times. And with a tracking light, you'll always know where your dog is!
5. Delupet Electric Dog Training Collar
What We Like:
- Collar straps can be replaced.
- Silicone cover on the prongs.
- Three safe modes: beep, vibrate, and shock.
- Different degrees of stimulation levels.
- Waterproof collar.
- 1,600 range.
Delupet is designed with your pup's safety and comfort in mind, giving you complete control to ensure a pleasant and successful training experience.
It's made with upgraded conductive silicone, so this collar provides double protection while ensuring your pup's skin isn't irritated.
With three safe and adjustable modes – beep, vibrate, and shock – you can tailor the right level of stimulation and response for your pooch. Clear communication between you and your pup eliminates any confusion over correct behavior or misbehavior.
The waterproof design is also ideal for active pups enjoying hanging out by the pool or playing in the rain. And with an extended battery life and fully charged collar lasting up to 35 days, you won't have to worry about recharging after every session!
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Collar
When shopping for the perfect collar for your long-haired dog, there are several factors to consider. These include the dog's comfort, prevention of fur damage, and functionality and safety.
Dog's Comfort
A comfortable collar is essential for your dog's well-being. The right collar should fit snugly without causing any discomfort or irritation. Consider factors such as the collar's material, width, and design when selecting. Soft, lightweight materials and designs that evenly distribute pressure can help to maximize your dog's comfort.
Prevention of Fur Damage
One of the primary concerns for long-haired dogs is the potential for fur damage. Certain collar designs, such as rolled collars or wide, flat collars, can help minimize fur matting and damage by reducing pressure points on the dog's neck. Additionally, selecting a collar made from a smooth, non-abrasive material can prevent fur breakage and ensure that your dog's coat remains in excellent condition.
Functionality and Safety
Lastly, it's crucial to consider your dog's collar's functionality and safety aspects. Look for collars offering features such as adjustable sizing, secure fastenings, and breakaway mechanisms that protect your dog from potential hazards. Furthermore, consider the intended use of the collar, whether it's for daily walks, training sessions, or identification purposes. By selecting a collar that meets your dog's specific needs, you can ensure their safety and well-being while still keeping them comfortable and looking great.
Collar Material Choices
Leather Dog Collar
Leather collars are known for their durability and long-lasting nature. They can withstand daily wear and tear, making them an excellent investment for long-haired dogs.
Leather is a naturally breathable material that softens over time. This means that a genuine leather back collar will become more comfortable for your dog as it ages, molding to its neck shape for a perfect fit.
To maintain the quality of a leather dog collar, it's essential to clean it regularly using a damp cloth and mild soap. This will help remove dirt and grime and prevent the leather from drying out.
Periodically applying a leather conditioner will keep the collar soft and supple, prolonging its lifespan and ensuring maximum comfort for your dog.
Leather collars should be kept away from water to prevent damage. If the leather dog collar becomes wet, allow it to air dry completely before reusing it.
Nylon Dog Collars
Nylon collars are lightweight and comfortable for dogs to wear, making them an excellent choice for a double-coated dog or a growing puppy.
Nylon collars are available in many colors, patterns, and designs, allowing you to select the perfect style for your dog's personality.
Most nylon collars can be machine washed on a gentle cycle using mild detergent. Be sure to place the collar in a laundry bag or pillowcase to protect it during washing.
After washing, hang the collar up to air dry. Avoid using heat sources such as a dryer or direct sunlight, as this can damage the collar's material and weaken its structure.
Eco-friendly Materials
Eco-friendly dog collars that are made from materials such as hemp, bamboo, or recycled materials, reduce the environmental impact of pet products.
Some eco-friendly materials, such as hemp and bamboo, are naturally hypoallergenic and antimicrobial. This makes them an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive skin or allergies.
Types of Collars
Rolled Leather Collars
Rolled leather collars are rounded, preventing fur on best collars from becoming tangled or matted. This design reduces pressure points on your dog's neck, making it an excellent option for long-haired breeds.
Leather is a strong, long-lasting material that becomes softer and more comfortable over time. This means that a well-rolled or leather collar will last and provide exceptional comfort for your dog.
Wide, Flat Collars
The flat collar and collars distribute pressure more evenly across your dog's neck, helping minimize fur damage and skin irritation. This design is particularly useful for larger dogs that require more control.
The wide surface area of these collars provides added support and control, making them ideal for larger long-haired breeds.
Martingale Collars
Martingale collars provide gentle control during training sessions without causing choking or discomfort. When your dog pulls, the martingale collar tightens slightly, offering a gentle correction without causing harm.
Unlike traditional choke collars, martingale collars are designed to prevent choking, making them a safe option for long-haired dogs during training.
Breakaway Collars
Breakaway collars have a built-in safety mechanism that releases the collar if it becomes caught or snagged, preventing injury to your dog's hair.
Designed to protect your long-haired dog from potential hazards, breakaway collars can prevent dangerous situations caused by snagging or entanglement.
Proper Sizing and Fitting for Long-Haired Dogs
Measuring Your Dog's Neck
To ensure the perfect fit for your long-haired dog's collar, measuring their neck accurately is essential. Here's how to do it:
- Use a soft measuring tape or a piece of string that you can measure later.
- Wrap the tape or string gently around your dog's neck, where the collar will sit.
- Allow enough room for two fingers to fit comfortably between the measuring tape and your dog's neck. This will ensure the collar is not too tight and provides enough space for comfort and movement.
- Record the measurement and refer to the manufacturer's sizing chart to determine the appropriate collar size for your dog.
Adjusting the Collar for a Comfortable Fit
Once you have the correct collar size, it's essential to adjust it properly to ensure your dog's comfort and safety. Follow these steps:
- Place the collar around your dog's neck, ensuring it sits correctly.
- Adjust the collar so that it is snug but not too tight. You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between the collar and your dog's neck.
- Check for any areas of the collar that may cause irritation or discomfort, such as buckles or fastenings. Make any necessary adjustments to minimize these issues.
- Ensure the collar's attachments, such as ID tags or leash clips, are secure and easily accessible.
Regularly Checking for Changes in Fit
As your dog grows, gains or loses weight, or experiences changes in coat thickness, the fit of its collar may change. It's essential to regularly check the collar's fit and make any necessary adjustments to maintain comfort and safety. Consider the following:
- Periodically measure your dog's neck to ensure the collar is still the correct size. If the collar becomes too tight or loose, purchasing a new one may be necessary.
- Check for any signs of wear or damage to the collar. Replace the collar if it becomes worn, frayed, or damaged in any way.
- Inspect your dog's neck for any signs of irritation or discomfort caused by the collar. If you notice any issues, consider adjusting the collar or trying a different style or material to ensure your dog's comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are prong collars good for dogs with long hair?
Prong collars can potentially damage the long hair of some dogs. They can also cause injury and behavioral issues, making them not a good option for any dog, regardless of their hair length.
What type of collar is best for long-haired dogs?
When it comes to long-haired dogs, a rounded leather collar is the best choice as it reduces the risk of matting and tangling in the fur around their neck, whereas, for more active dogs, a neoprene-lined collar provides more durability and comfort.
Are leather collars good for long-haired dogs?
Leather collars can be good for long-haired dogs as they do not tend to cause matting or tangling of fur. Still, it is important to choose a collar with a soft lining to avoid irritation and to regularly check for any signs of rubbing or discomfort.
Are wide collars or thinner collars better?
Wide collars are generally considered safer than thinner collars as they can distribute pressure more evenly, reduce the risk of injury, and provide more security for dogs who may try to slip out of their collar.
What Option of Best Collar for Long-Haired Dogs is Best for You?
At the end of the day, getting the right collar for long-haired dogs is all about finding something that suits your pet and its needs.
Think of materials, adjustability, convenience, and functionality. Comfort should also be considered to ensure your furry friend stays comfortable while wearing it.
We hope this article has helped clear up some confusion when deciding what option of the best collar for long-haired dogs is best for you.
Items reviewed:
1. Mighty Paw Neoprene Padded Dog Collar
2. Coastal Pet, Circle T Round Dog Collar
3. CollarDirect Rolled Leather Dog Collar
