What Size Does My Dog Need?
(And Why You Should Never Measure the Old Collar)
Nothing kills the excitement like waiting for your stunning new collar to arrive, only to discover it doesn’t fit. Here's how to make sure you order the right size.
Because we handcraft every piece from premium leather using the Dogs With A Mission sizing system, getting the measurement right the first time makes all the difference. Here’s exactly how to do it.
The Golden Rule: Never Measure the Old Collar
It seems logical, but measuring an existing collar is one of the most common sizing mistakes we see. Here’s why it doesn’t work:
• Flat vs. round: A collar lying flat on a table measures differently than one fastened snugly around a neck.
• Sizing varies by brand: A size M from another brand may be a size L with us. Our handcrafted pieces follow their own sizing guide.
• The result: Measuring the old collar almost always leads to ordering a size too large.
How to Measure Correctly (3 Simple Steps)
Grab a flexible tape measure and your pup, and follow these steps:
Step 1: Find the Right Spot
Have your dog stand or sit calmly. Place the tape measure around the neck exactly where a collar would naturally sit.
Step 2: Measure Snug Against the Skin
Pull the tape measure so it fits firmly and flush against the neck. Do not slide fingers underneath, and do not measure loosely.
Why does this matter? Our handcrafted leather naturally softens and relaxes slightly with wear. If you start with a loose measurement, the finished collar will end up far too large.
Step 3: Check Our Size Chart
Note the exact number of centimeters and match it to the size chart on the product page. Simple as that.
Caught Between Two Sizes?
If your measurement falls right between two sizes, always size down. Here’s why:
• Leather is a living material: Over time, our leather becomes more supple and naturally gives a little more room.
• Fit matters for style: A collar that’s too big will rotate and slip around the neck — and none of our beautifully crafted designs deserve that.
• Our rule: On the edge? Always size down, not up.
No Tape Measure? No Problem.
You don’t need special tools. Here’s a quick workaround:
1. Use a phone charging cable or a piece of string.
2. Wrap it snugly around your dog’s neck.
3. Hold the spot where it crosses with your thumb.
4. Lay the cable flat against a ruler to read the centimeters.