Collar Type
At Crafted Collars I hand make collars for dogs of all shapes and sizes - from tiny companions to giant breeds. To help you find the right collar, here are a few key things to consider when choosing the type and size to best suit your dog’s needs, comfort and lifestyle.
Different dogs benefit from different collar styles, factoring in your dog’s breed, size and any specific training needs such as pulling tendencies or risk of slipping backwards out of their collar. Here are the types I offer:
Traditional Collars
(also known as House Collars)
Design features
Flat top stitched webbing or BioThane®; adjustable length; side release buckle or belt style buckle
Suitable for...
Daily wear; attaching ID tag to; walking on a lead
Not ideal for...
Dogs that pull on the lead; dogs with narrow, long necks
Martingale Collars
(also known as Double Loop Collars)
Design features
No buckle; loop design that tightens under tension; adjustable
Suitable for...
Dogs with narrow heads, like sighthounds; dogs that may pull; escape artists. Especially useful as a dog training collar
Not ideal for...
Unsupervised use, as they can catch on items if worn indoors. These collars are for walking only
Measuring your dog for a collar
To get the right fit, measuring your dog is the best way to ensure a collar is going to be comfortable and secure.
Measuring for All Collar Types
- Using a soft measuring tape, or a piece of string, wrap the tape around the base of the neck (ref. point 1 above) snugly where the collar will naturally sit.
- Record the measurement.
- Add 1-2 inches to the measurement for your dog's comfort.
Measuring for Martingale Collars
- Using a soft measuring tape, or a piece of string, wrap the tape around the base of the neck (ref. point 2 above) snugly where the collar will naturally sit.
- Take an additional measurement around the widest part of the dog’s head (ref. point 3 above), usually directly in front of, or below the ears. (This ensures the collar can slip over the head comfortably when fitting.)
- Record the measurements.
- Add 1-2 inches to the measurement for your dog's comfort.
Select collar size using our guide
Taking your dog’s recorded neck size measurement, choose the collar size where their measurement fits in the middle of the typical neck size range.
For example: If your dog’s neck measures 13", this falls in the middle of typical neck size 10” to 16”, so you would order Collar Size ‘Small’.
Sizing & FAQs
Good to know
• Narrower collars (12mm to 16mm) are best suited to small, lightweight dogs
• For larger, heavier and stronger breeds, I recommend a minimum width of 25mm with heavy duty hardware and reinforced stitching for safety
Adjustable as standard
All Crafted Collars are adjustable, unless specifically ordered without that option.
Custom fit option
Every dog is different - so if your dog’s measurements don’t fall neatly into standard sizing, just get in touch with your dog’s details and I will tailor a collar specifically for your dog.
How do I choose the right collar for my dog?
You’ll find all the information you need on the size guide above
How do I measure my dog for the right size?
The size guide can be found above. If you're unsure, I am always happy to help — just send a message with your dog’s breed and neck measurement.
What materials do you use in your collars?
I use a combination of traditional and modern materials — strong webbing, soft linings, high-tensile stitching, strength tested hardware. Everything is chosen to be comfortable, safe, and long-lasting for everyday use.
Hardware used in each collection is specified in the product description.
How do I fit a Martingale Collar correctly?
Martingale collars are designed specifically for dogs with longer and narrower necks and feature two loops, without any buckles, so need careful fitting: Slip the larger loop over the head and adjust to fit snugly. Attach the lead to the D ring on the smaller loop, allowing for a 3 finger width space between sliders when the collar is pulled by the lead. If the sliders touch, this means the collar is too loose so will need further tightening. When pressure is exerted on the lead via the D ring on the smaller loop, the collar tightens slightly offering security as well as comfort.
How do I care for my dog’s collar?
You can find the washing and care instructions for each item in the individual listings. I also advise on regular collar checks for your dog’s optimum safety.
Can I order a custom size or design?
Definitely. If you can’t find what you’re looking for in the collections or need a specific matching accessory, just get in touch to discuss your requirements. I’d be happy to create something tailored to your needs.
Do you make matching leads or accessories?
Yes — I make leads, and sometimes other matching pieces like bow ties or keyrings, depending on the collection. If you'd like something to match a collar, just ask.
Where are your collars made?
Each collar is handmade by me in Southern Scotland. I don’t outsource any part of the process — just slow, careful work done one at a time.
How long will my order take to ship?
If your collar choice is in stock then your order will be shipped out to you the next working day.
Most collars are made to order and typically ship within 10 working days. If I expect a delay, I’ll always let you know. If you need an item urgently, please contact me prior to ordering.
What’s your return or exchange policy?
If something doesn’t fit or isn’t quite right, get in touch within 14 days of receiving it. I’ll do my best to make it right. Custom orders may not be eligible for return, but I’m always happy to help with adjustments
Happy customers
The Harris Tweed house collar I bought for our greyhound has been worn permanently for two years and is as good as the day I bought it. It is such a delight to support a small business like Crafted Collars, that obviously takes great care to craft products that are tough, durable, very comfortable that always get a comment from dog walkers we meet. When we adopted a second hound this year, we knew exactly who to go to for a matching house collar.
My first impression on receiving one of Crafted Collars' Harris Tweed dog collars as a gift for my dog Bob was how beautiful! – and next – will it be strong enough? The buckle — which is easy to release almost one handed — has survived nearly three years of serious pulling, and the slip adjustment has never shifted. Importantly, the natural fabric does not rub his neck as his previous nylon collar did. A brilliant product that still looks new after a couple of years of constant use.
I’ve purchased three collars from Crafted Collars, two for our rescue Lab X as I couldn’t decide which colour, so bought them both! Fantastic craftsmanship, quality and choice of materials, coupled with Anne’s knowledge and great service made it so easy. We were able to try the collars on, pressure free, before making the final decision. I’d recommend Crafted Collars.
Lovely collars and great range. All my hounds have them! Great quality and long lasting, even with swimming. Highly recommend.
Thank you for our lovely martingale collar! Louie has a fat neck until he’s out on walks so often collars feel too tight at home would slip over his head on a walk so this design works great and it’s a lovely pattern.
Crafted Collars are great. My dog has had hers for almost two years, the same age as the dog, and still looks new. It washes well and tolerates being tugged at. Love the different patterns that I can choose from. Will definitely be ordering again.
Fantastic collar. Made to a very high standard. Highly recommend.
I’m really happy with the handmade collar I got for Luna. It was made to her size so it fits just right, and the craftsmanship is lovely. She looks so sweet in it and I can tell it’s something that will last.
Absolutely love the collars. We have bought three so far. Such a choice of beautiful fabrics and ribbons. It is also so easy to talk to Anne and customise to what your dog might need. Her understanding of different breeds helps a lot and her eye for detail and good quality materials make these collars unique and useable.