You've just bought home the dog of your dreams. He may be small, but he is full of energy and enthusiasm. If you love your little bundle of joy, you will want to make sure that he is safe, and this starts with selecting the right collar. Here are some things to pay attention to when picking out the best collar for your tiny pooch.

Getting The Right Fit

It's important to get the right fit of collar for your dog. A good rule of thumb is to make sure when trying on the collar that you can fit two fingers in between the dog and the collar. This gives the dog enough breathing room so circulation is not pinched off. It also makes it so the collar doesn't bunch up or kink up in certain areas. Here is a general collar sizing chart for small dogs under 25 pounds:

A dog that weighs up to 10 pounds needs a collar 12 inches or less. 

Dogs 11 to 25 pounds require a collar between 11 and 15 inches.

Sizes may vary due to head size and brand. Use this example as a starting point. 

Collar Type

There are many small dog collars available on the market. Most are made from nylon material because it is durable and easy to adjust. Other materials include leather, polyester, and sometimes rubber. From there, various styles are geared toward the needs of the dog and the owner. This includes a buckle closure, choke chain, head halter, or slip. Some are adjustable and others simply slip over the head and neck. 

For certain dogs, like brachycephalic breeds such as French Bulldogs and Pugs, their airway is often more narrow than long-nosed breeds. Harness-type collars may be a safer option, especially during hot months. 

Accessorize

Many small breed owners that have Pomeranians and Chihuahuas love to personalize their small dog collars. You can order collars that showcase their name or have special tag areas for dog identification purposes. Some can be custom ordered to be color-coordinated to match leashes and pet clothing accessories. 

Materials can be added, such as metal engraved tags or rhinestone designs. Name and phone numbers can also be stitched into the collars for a truly personalized effect. Some have custom embroidered designs like flags to help identify if they are a service or assistive dog.  

Your little dog is more than just a pet, they are your whole life. One way to help them stand out above the rest is with their own special collar. No matter what needs your small dog has, there is a collar to help them personally identify with the world.

To look at options, contact a small dog collar supplier in your area such as Boulderbarks.