A good dog collar is the most essential gear for your four-legged BFF. It allows you to control and restrain, command and correct, and keep your pup safe and sound, near at hand. It can also mean the difference between a cozy evening at home with your pup and a stressful night spent searching for a dog that has gone a walkabout. The best collars keep your dog safe and more.

　　Whether taking your evening walk through the city streets, hiking your fave mountain trail, or training an unruly puppy to walk like a good boy, the collar you choose has definite ramifications.

　　Collars do various jobs, some better than others, and knowing exactly how you need your collar to perform can help you make the right choice. We know figuring out which one is right for your needs can be daunting. Our lead tester, Kristi Pahr, and her 4 dogs put a variety of collars through the ringer to determine which stand out from the rest.

　　Scroll through our recommendations below and take a quick peek at our comparison chart to see which of our top collars checks your boxes. Also, comb through our buyers guide and FAQ so youll know how to choose the best collar for your pup.

　　The Best Dog Collars of 2024 Best Overall Dog Collar: Ruffwear Crag Reflective Collar Best Budget Dog Collar: Wolfgang Man Beast Overland Dog Collar Best Dog Collar for Training: Ruffwear Web Reaction™ Martingale Dog Collar with Buckle Best Dog Collar for Visibility: Orvis Personalized Reflective Collar Best Overall Dog Collar Ruffwear Crag™ Reflective Dog Collar Specs Price $23 Materials Polyester jacquard webbing Best For Daily walks, everyday use

　　Pros Molded aluminum leash connection point Separate ID tag attachment point Durable weave, wont fray or snap Reflective thread woven into collar Cons Fragile ID tag attachment point Stiff until broken in Kristi Pahr The Ruffwear Crag™ Reflective Dog Collar ($23) checks all the boxes for a reliable, everyday-use dog collar, with few drawbacks. Tested on a rambunctious adolescent pit bull mix, the Crag held up to rough play, long walks, lots of back-scratching in the grass, and more than a few unauthorized dips in the pond.

　　Ruffwear’s proprietary Tubelock® jacquard webbing prevents fraying and unraveling and ensures prints and designs, which are woven into the collar, not printed on, do not fade. After three months of hard use, this collar is still as vibrant and colorful as it was on day one.

　　For nighttime or low-light jaunts, reflective threads are woven into the webbing, not sewn onto the exterior of the collar. The integrated reflective material catches the light but is a subtle glimmer instead of a bright shine. The Crag is not for you if good reflective capabilities are on your must-have list.

　　The density of the weave makes the collar a little stiff, but it breaks in nicely. The aluminum leash connection point provides a strong, secure attachment point that not even the biggest puller can break. The Crag collar also has a second attachment point for ID tags, but it is made of plastic and sewn onto the collar, which makes it more fragile and likelier to break than the leash connection ring.

　　The Ruffwear Crag™ Reflective Dog Collar is ideal for daily walks and low-intensity hikes or for couch potatoes who only travel to the food bowl. As the best overall collar on our list, it meets the needs of all but the most specialized niche collars without breaking the bank.

　　$22 at REI$20 at Ruffwear$22 at Amazon Best Budget Dog Collar Wolfgang Man Beast Overland Dog Collar Specs Price $18-20 Materials Polyester, steel Best For Large dogs, pullers

　　Pros Pull tested to 800 lbs. Covered by a three-year warranty Welded seam on D-ring Curved buckle Cons Buckle plastic could be higher quality Can loosen after pulling Kristi Pahr It doesn’t get much better for those on a budget than the Wolfgang Man Beast Overland Dog Collar ($18 – 20). Ideal for large breeds, this collar has been pull-tested to over 800 pounds. It has the strength and material durability to withstand even the most excitable pullers, and as a bonus, it’s gorgeous.

　　Our tester used this collar on her boxer and the larger of her two German Sheperd mixes. She found it up to the challenges posed by both dogs. The polyester webbing is strong and durable but still comfortable enough for everyday wear. It did not chafe or irritate either dog, most notably the boxer, who tends to be more sensitive.

　　The pattern is beautiful and has shown zero fading. The collar cleans up easily with soap and warm water, and the colors are still vibrant. Aside from the brand label, the collar has no seams or stitching and is the softest of all the woven collars we tested. The unique curved buckle fit both dogs’ necks comfortably, and despite there being no stitching or serging in its construction, there was zero evidence of fraying.

　　Our tester did notice that the collar loosened and slipped off over her boxer’s head, but only after being pulled on by her adolescent pit bull. The buckle plastic feels fragile, and there is some concern that it could break, but it has held firm so far.

　　This Wolfgang Man Beast Overland Dog Collar is best for those on a budget. But honestly, with such high quality and cool design features, even those willing to spend a bundle on a collar will love it.

　　$18 at REI$20 at Amazon Best Dog Collar for Training Ruffwear Web Reaction Martingale Dog Collar With Buckle Specs Price $20 Materials Polyester jacquard webbing Best For Training, dogs who back out of their collars

　　Pros Cinches tight without choking Molded aluminum leash connection point Separate ID tag attachment point Durable weave, wont fray or snap Reflective thread woven into collar Cons Fit may be challenging on dogs with large necks May not loosen without help Stiff until broken in Kristi Pahr The Ruffwear Web Reaction™ Martingale Dog Collar with Buckle ($20) is the perfect collar for dogs needing training or those who tend to back out of their collars. Breeds whose necks are wider than their heads, like greyhounds and some brachycephalic breeds, can easily slip out of traditional non-cinch collars. However, conventional choke chains are uncomfortable and can harm dogs if not used appropriately. The Martingale-style collar solves this problem by integrating a cinch function with a comfortable webbing to reduce the risk of injury and provide the control you need.

　　A gentle tug on the collar provides correction for mild pulling and prevents dogs from backing out of their collar and running free. Like the Crag collar, the Ruffwear Martingale collar uses a jacquard weave for durability and long life without fading. Reflective threads are woven into the collar instead of sewn to the exterior and provide a subtle glint in low-light situations but are not as reflective as a high-visibility collar. Unlike other Martingale collars that slip on over the head, the Ruffwear Martingale uses a side buckle closure, eliminating the need to slide the collar over the dogs head.

　　Our tester used this collar on her boxer, who has a history of slipping out of collars and making a break for freedom, and found that it lives up to its promise. The collar cinched down quickly and comfortably and kept her dog secure without choking or causing any discomfort.

　　Sizing the collar for her dog took a bit of time, but it was secure after a bit of tweaking. The collar was stiff upon first use, but after a few days of regular wear, it became malleable and comfortable. Though our tester did not experience this problem, some dog owners found that the cinch did not loosen on its own and had to be done manually.

　　The Ruffwear Web Reaction™ Martingale Dog Collar with Buckle is best for low-key leash training and other mild corrections, as well as sighthounds and brachycephalic breeds.

　　$20 at Ruffwear$20 at Amazon Best Dog Collar for Visibility Orvis Personalized Reflective Collar Specs Price $40 Materials Nylon webbing, steel Best For Nighttime walks, hunting, low-light conditions

　　Pros Highly reflective Embroidered ID info Multiple color options Cons Reflective material may wear away Embroidery is only available in black Kristi Pahr If your dog spends much time outside in the early morning or evening, the Orvis Personalized Reflective Collar will help you track him. And, if he goes on a solo adventure, the embroidered ID info will help you get them back. Made of heavy-duty nylon webbing coated in reflective material, this collar catches even the faintest light, making your dog visible in low-light conditions.

　　Our tester tried this collar with her German Sheperd mix, Ruby, and was able to keep track of her in the rural darkness across a dark field. The embroidery stands out well against the silver of the reflective material, making it easy for Good Samaritans to give you a ring if your pup takes off on their own.

　　The nylon webbing is sturdy, and the steel D-ring provides a secure leash attachment point, although this collar is not recommended for use in a tie-out. Consider doubling this collar with a more heavy-duty brand or a harness for large dogs that pull.

　　Though our tester did not have an issue, some reviewers said the reflective material wears off after several months of use. The plastic buckle felt flimsy but held up to all Ruby’s shenanigans. The collar is available in eight colors, but the embroidery is only available in black.

　　This Orvis Personalized Reflective Collar is best for nighttime walks and hikes, nighttime potty breaks, or hunters who run dogs in dark or low-light conditions (though we’d recommend a stronger collar or harness paired with this one for particularly rambunctious coon dogs).

　　$19 at Amazoncheck price at orvis Best of the Rest Herzog Silicone Collar Specs Price $42 Materials Silicone, recycled ripstop, aluminum Best For Dogs who spend time in water, have sensitive skin, or just love getting dirty

　　Pros Comfortable Water- and stink-resistant Easy to clean Eco-friendly Cons Expensive Limited color palette available Stiff ripstop and threads Kristi Pahr If you’re looking for a comfy collar that transitions from the sofa to the lake and back again, the Herzog Silicone Collar ($42) is the one for you. Recycled silicone and ripstop mean it’s comfortable enough for daily use and wont irritate your dog’s skin. It is also (mostly) waterproof and can withstand the rigors of multiple dunkings in a pool, lake, or river.

　　This collar is easy to clean and stain-resistant for those mud-loving pups and wont fade or lose color, even after use in a chlorine pool. The solid aluminum D-ring provides a secure leash attachment point that wont bend or break, and there is a separate attachment point for ID tags.

　　The ripstop fabric used in this collar is recycled. The entire thing is stain- and scratch-resistant and PVC-free.

　　Our tester tried out the Herzog Silicone Collar in Sage and was struck by its low-key design. It is simple and understated but looks great. The soft, malleable silicone makes for a mostly comfortable collar, though the ripstop and thread attaching the ripstop to the silicone are quite stiff at first.

　　Her boxer scratched at his neck fairly consistently, but her longer-haired German Sheperd mix was not bothered and barely seemed to notice she was wearing a collar. This collar is relatively expensive compared to other collars on our list, but the durability, ease of care, and relative comfort (on the right pup) make it our favorite for daily use.

　　Some reviewers noted that the ripstop can begin to smell after repeated sessions in the lake or pond, so the manufacturer recommends rinsing and spot cleaning after swimming and allowing the collar to dry completely before putting it back on.

　　This Herzog Silicone Collar is best suited for everyday wear, walks around town, and dogs with longer coats who wont notice the rigidity of the ripstop and stitching.

　　$29 at REI$42 at Amazon Wild One Waterproof Dog Collar Specs Price $38 Materials Poly-flex coated nylon webbing, zinc allow, carbon steel Best For Water dogs

　　Pros Waterproof Rust resistant hardware Easy to clean 19 color and pattern options Cons Rivet attachment is questionably secure Sizes are smaller than other brands, so measure carefully Kristi Pahr If you can’t get your dog out of the pool or lake, the Wild One Waterproof Dog Collar ($38) is the collar you’ve been waiting for. It is the most waterproof collar we tested, made of strong nylon webbing and coated in flex-poly. There is no cloth, fabric, or ripstop in its construction, so there’s nothing to absorb water or hold dampness against your dog’s skin.

　　The poly-flex coating is velvety soft and easy to clean. It will not hold on to odors or stains, and the zinc alloy buckle and powder-coated steel D-ring are rust—and corrosion-resistant.

　　Our tester used this collar with her water-loving pit bull and it stood up to multiple plunges in the pond, a good bit of mud-rolling, and countless trips through a dew-covered hay field and still looked (and smelled) like it did fresh out of the box.

　　Instead of stitches, the collar is closed with metal rivets. Though they stayed secure during testing, there is some concern that they could pop with a large dog that pulls on the leash. One note of caution: measure your dog accurately before ordering. The sizes are not based on the same measurements as most other collars and the large size is much smaller than the large collars sold by other brands. Do not order a large one, assuming it will fit a lab or golden retriever, as it is more suitable for a medium-sized dog.

　　The Wild One Waterproof Dog Collar is best for water-loving dogs of all stripes, whether they’re hard-working retrievers, suburban pool swimmers, or active dogs who love nothing more than a dip in the river or lake.

　　$30 at REI$31 at Amazon GoTags Personalized Dog Collar Specs Price $19 Materials Nylon webbing, stainless steel Best For Travel, escape artists

　　Pros Identification that wont fall off or get lost Highly customizable Comfortable Fade-resistant Cons Buckle can obscure some ID info Not recommended for pullers Kristi Pahr Ideal for dogs who are always on the go or who have the tendency to do a runner, the GoTags Personalized Dog Collar ($19) will ensure they get home safely. Made of durable nylon webbing with ID info embroidered into the body of the collar, there’s no need to worry about tags falling off or corroding so that info isn’t visible.

　　Available in five colors and 15 thread options, owners can customize embroidery to include personal information up to 25 characters — perfect for your dog’s name and your phone number.

　　The materials are fade-resistant, and the collar is soft and comfy—there is no worry about chafing or irritation. Our tester had her phone number and dog’s name embroidered in turquoise on a black collar, and the combination is both aesthetically pleasing and highly visible against her dogs black coat.

　　When sized appropriately, the adjustment slider covers a few characters of the information, which could mean the dog needs to be touched to see it in an emergency. Our tester also had concerns about the buckles durability and recommends pairing this ID collar with a second, more durable collar for dogs that pull.

　　The GoTags Personalized Dog Collar is best for traveling or dogs that escape from home, but anyone can benefit from a personalized ID collar in the event of an emergency.

　　$19 at Amazon Dog Collar Comparison Chart

　　Testing a range of collars that will cover your pup no matter your lifestyle or needs; (photo/Elk Raven Photography) How We Tested Dog Collars Our lead tester for this piece, Kristi Pahr, currently has four dogs and cannot remember a time that her life wasn’t shared with at least one four-legged BFF. She understands that the perfect dog collar should blend form and function and that not every collar is right for every dog.

　　Her dogs, Spanky, a 13-year-old boxer; Ruby and Jade, three-year-old littermate German shepherd mixes; and Mr. Pibbles, an 11-month-old foundling pit bull, put these collars through their paces over two months with varying degrees of cooperation and training (looking at you, Pibbles). During that time, Kristi noted all the good, bad, and ugly, paying close attention to overall durability and security. GearJunkie Editor Chris Kassars pup, Nala, also stepped in for some testing. We took these collars on big hiking, running, and wandering adventures in the mountains to see how they performed.

　　After months of running, walking, swimming, frolicking, and cavorting, we are sure these collars are the best of a flooded market and will update our guide as new awesome collars are released. If your dog is a runner or you need more control, be sure to consult our guide to the Best Dog GPS Trackers. Or, if your pup needs a solid rest after all your adventures, check out our guide to The Best Dog Beds.

　　Nala showing off her stylish Herzog Silicone Collar; (photo/Elk Raven Photography) Buyers Guide: How To Choose the Best Dog Collar All dogs are different, which seems obvious, but a collar perfect for a 150-pound Mastiff may not work for a working dog. While that delicate collar with the beautiful pattern looks tempting, it might not be the best choice for a young labrador who insists on pulling against his leash.

　　Given the myriad products and features available, choosing the perfect collar can seem daunting, but it boils down to a few simple considerations: fit, function, form—and price, of course.

　　We found the perfect fit for all these collars by measuring our pup and paying attention to sizing guidelines on each website; (photo/Elk Raven Photography) Measure for the Right Fit Just because your last collar was large doesn’t necessarily mean your new collar will be large. Much like clothing sizes, different manufacturers size collars differently. What may be a large in one brand could be a medium in another, so careful measurement is essential.

　　To measure your dogs neck, use a soft tape measure, not the Stanley tape measure in your toolbag, but the fabric tape measure in your sewing kit. Measure around the thickest part of your dog’s neck, usually closest to the shoulders, and place two fingers perpendicular to your dog’s neck under the tape measure to ensure the collar is not too tight. Compare this measurement to the sizing chart on the manufacturers website to get a collar that isn’t too big or small.

　　If you don’t have a soft measuring tape, use a piece of yard or twine, measure your dog’s neck the same way described above, and then measure the yarn with your rigid tape measure.

　　The cinching motion of the Ruffwear Martingale collar keeps your dog from backing out of her collar while being easy on her neck and throat; (photo/Elk Raven Photography) How Will You Use It? A collar that works for easy-going city walks isn’t the collar you need for a tromp through the woods or a splash in the river. When collar shopping, consider your lifestyle and also think about your dog’s anatomy. For example, sight hounds and some brachycephalic breeds, whose necks are wider than their heads, will benefit from the Ruffwear Web Reaction Martingale Dog Collar With Buckle which tightens so it wont slip over their heads.

　　The Wild One Waterproof Dog Collar is ideal for swimming and water-loving pups;(photo/Elk Raven Photography) Materials A collar’s material matters. Nylon collars hold water and dirt and can become stinky if not washed often. Dogs that spend a lot of time in the water, whether swimming for the sheer joy of it or retrieving ducks in hunting season, will need a waterproof collar like the Wild One Waterproof Dog Collar.

　　Coon hunters, rural residents, and night owls will appreciate the highly reflective material on the Orvis Personalized Reflective Collar, which is available in safety orange for deer season, to help them keep track of their dogs in low-light situations.

　　The Ruffwear Crag™ Reflective Dog Collar provides an extra layer of safety by keeping the leash and collar firmly and consistently attached to one another;(photo/Elk Raven Photography) Security Nothing is worse than a broken collar and a missing dog. Strong, durable materials keep your pup safe and close to you, and you need to be able to count on a collar to stay in one piece. Collars with welded or one-piece leash attachments, like the Ruffwear Crag Reflective Collar and the Wolfgang Man Beast Overland Dog Collar, provide an extra layer of safety by keeping the leash and collar firmly and consistently attached to one another, even when your dog pulls or darts after that pesky squirrel.

　　If your dog does disappear into the night, the no-fade embroidery on the GoTags Personalized Dog Collar will hopefully ensure a swift return.

　　The Orvis Personalized Reflective Collar offers an added layer of protection;(photo/Kristi Pahr) Visibility Coon hunters, rural residents, and night owls will appreciate the highly reflective material on the Orvis Personalized Reflective Collar, which is available in safety orange for deer season, to help them keep track of their dogs in low-light situations.

　　Dog owners not prone to midnight walks in the country can still benefit from the reflective threads woven into the Ruffwear collars to give a subtle glint in the dark.

　　Our budget pick, the Wolfgang Man Beast Overland Dog Collar offers great value and function; (photo/Elk Raven Photography) Price There’s no need to bust your budget when you buy a collar. Most collars cost between $15 and $30, but you can definitely spend more. Our budget pick, the Wolfgang Man Beast Overland Dog Collar costs less than twenty bucks and offers no compromise on style and reliability.

　　The Herzog Silicone Collar, double the price of the Wolfgang Man Beast Overland Dog Collar, is the most expensive on our list at $42 and provides a chic modern design for those with an eye for elevated aesthetics.

　　A stylish collar that fits makes Nala all smiles; (photo/Elk Raven Photography) FAQ What is the best collar for a dog that pulls? While it may be tempting to treat pulling with a training collar, the only real remedy is good training. Martingale collars can be used to give slight corrections. But, they aren’t necessarily a deterrent, and collars that are deterrents — choke, shock, and prong collars — can be harmful and cause damage to your dogs throat or neck if not used with the utmost care and diligence.

　　A dog that proves difficult to leash train on a collar could benefit from a no-pull chest or head harness instead.

　　Can dog collars be washed? Most dog collars can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a gentle scrub for stains. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions before chucking your collar in the washing machine, though — many advise against it and recommend hand washing instead.

　　How should a dog collar fit? Collars should be snug around the neck but not tight. To check fit, slide two fingers perpendicularly into the space between the collar and your dog’s neck. If they don’t fit, loosen the collar; if they fit but there’s a gap, tighten it up a little until it’s snug. For dogs with fluffy coats or dense undercoats, tighten the collar based on the neck circumference and not just around the coat.

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