How to Measure and Choose the Right Leather Dog Collar for Your Pet – GAD Roots
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How to Measure and Choose the Right Leather Dog Collar for Your Pet

Choosing the perfect leather collar goes beyond aesthetics. It's about fit, comfort, durability, and style—and with GAD Roots’ handcrafted collars, you’re already starting from a strong foundation. Here’s how to ensure the one you pick fits your dog beautifully and stands the test of time.

1. Measure Your Dog’s Neck Accurately

Accurate measurements are the foundation of a great fit. Here's how to do it right:

  1. Wrap a flexible tape (or string + ruler) around the base of your dog’s neck.

  2. It should be snug but not tight—you must fit two fingers underneath comfortably.

  3. Record the measurement in centimetres and inches.

GAD Roots’ size chart (for their Premium Leather collars) is based on this method, using the distance between the first and last hole for fit range.

2. Choose the Correct Size

GAD Roots collars come in six sizes (XXS–XL), covering most breeds:

Size Collar Length Width Neck Fit Range Suitable Breeds
XXS 35 cm / 13.8″ 2 cm / 0.8″ 22–30 cm / 8.7–11.8″ Chihuahua, Toy Poodle, Papillon
XS 42 cm / 16.5″ 2 cm / 0.8″ 29–37 cm / 11.4–14.6″ Maltese, Dachshund, Shih Tzu
S 47 cm / 18.5″ 2.5 cm / 1″ 32–41 cm / 12.6–16.1″ Pug, Mini Schnauzer, Cocker Spaniel
M 54 cm / 21.3″ 3 cm / 1.2″ 38–47 cm / 15.0–18.5″ Beagle, French Bulldog, Border Collie
L 63 cm / 24.8″ 3 cm / 1.2″ 47–56 cm / 18.5–22.0″ Golden Retriever, Boxer, Labrador
XL 72 cm / 28.3″ 4 cm / 1.6″ 54–64 cm / 21.3–25.2″ German Shepherd, Husky, Rottweiler

📌 Fit tip: Pick a size where your dog’s measurement lands in the middle of the range for comfort and adjustability.

3. Understand Collar Width and Comfort

Width matters for comfort and control:

  • Small dogs (XXS–S): 2–2.5 cm (~0.8–1″)

  • Medium dogs (M): 3 cm (~1.2″)

  • Large dogs (L–XL): up to 4 cm (~1.6″)

These widths help distribute pressure evenly and prevent chafing even during long walks or hikes.

Premium Padded Floater Leather Dog Collar – Red & Navy Blue - GAD Roots

 

4. Select the Best Leather & Hardware

Leather Quality

All GAD Roots collars are crafted from premium full-grain vegetable‑tanned floater leather, offering exceptional

  • Durability

  • Aesthetic patina over time

  • Natural comfort that softens with wear Padding.

Every collar features a soft padded interior, preventing chafing and ensuring comfort on delicate skin.

Hardware

Look for:

  • Rust-resistant buckles and D-rings (stainless steel, brass, or nickel finishes)

  • Heavy-duty stitching and reinforced holes, essential for active dogs 

5. Lifestyle Match

Consider daily routines when choosing:

  • Water exposure? Floater leather resists light moisture, but frequent swimming? Consider a backup or rinse-and-dry routine.

  • Pulling behavior? A wide (3–4 cm), padded collar offers better control and cushioning.

  • Special occasions? Two-tone collars like Earth & Brown or Red & Navy add stylish flair.

6. Care & Maintenance

Extend your collar’s life with proper care:

  • Wipe clean with a damp cloth—never soak.

  • Apply leather conditioner lightly every few months.

  • Always dry after wet use and store away from direct sun.

These collars develop character and resilience over time .

7. Mix & Match: Collar + Leash Sets

For a coordinated, professional look:

  • Pair collars and leashes in matching colors and leather for seamless design.

  • Use similar hardware finishes (e.g., brass buckles with brass leash clasps).

This unified approach enhances both appearance and handling.

brown leather dog collar

8. Why Handmade Leather Matters

GAD Roots vs. mass-produced collars:

  • Customized sizing improves comfort and prevents slipping or irritation.

  • Superior hardware, stitching, and materials ensure safety and longevity .

  • Vegetable‑tanned leather is eco-friendly—biodegradable, fewer chemicals—and ages beautifully.

  • Handmade items allow for color/styles customization to reflect your dog’s personality.

Final Checklist: Smarter Buying

  1. Measure – snug with two-finger rule.

  2. Pick size – aim for mid-range neck fit.

  3. Choose width – suitable to dog's size and activity.

  4. Confirm materials – full-grain leather, padded lining.

  5. Inspect hardware – rust-resistant and sturdy.

  6. Consider lifestyle – matching functionality.

  7. Plan care routine – cleaning, conditioning, drying.

  8. Bundle in sets – collar + leash for style & convenience.

Example Collars from GAD Roots

By measuring accurately, choosing the right size and width, picking quality leather, and knowing your dog’s lifestyle, you can confidently pick a collar that’s safe, stylish, and built to last. GAD Roots’ commitment to full‑grain, vegetable‑tanned floater leather, padded comfort, and rugged hardware ensures you’re giving your pup something that truly earns its place in your adventures together.

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