Are you looking for the best size collar for a Golden Retriever puppy?
Perfect! You’ve come to the right place.
In addition to being absolutely adorable, Golden Retriever puppies are also quick growers!
You’ll have to keep a firm eye on the collar to make sure that it isn’t too tight as he grows into it.
In this Digdoggy.com guide, you’ll learn
- the perfect size collar for Golden Retriever puppies
- What materials are best to choose
- Types of collars that are most suited for puppies
- Our top choice of collars for Golden Retriever puppies
And much more!
What Size Collar Is Best For Golden Retriever Puppies?
The general size for a golden retriever puppy’s collar is 6 to 9 inches for an 8 to 10-week old puppy. Remember that your puppy grows fast, so this sized collar will not last for long but it will be great for the first few months.
A pup that is two to four months should wear a collar about 9 to 12 inches in length, and between 1 and 1.5 inches in width.
Older pups need a collar between 12 and 16 inches in length, while adult Golden Retrievers would do best with one that is between 16 and 24 inches.
How Do You Measure A Golden Retriever’s Neck?
While some of us have a cloth measuring tape, this might not be the case for all. Fret not, a piece of string works just as well.
Take a tape or rope and wrap it around the neck where the collar normally sits. Then, place two fingers between the neck and the tape or string to ensure that there’s still wiggle room for your fingers. Once done, you’re got your measurements.
If you’re using a bit of string, you’ll have to take note of where the ideal spot was and measure the string out.
Many pet stores and online retailers sell adjustable collars, which can be adjusted to fit a wide range of neck sizes.
Read More: >> What size collar is best for German Shepherds?
Golden Retriever Neck Size Chart
| Age | Average neck size | Average collar size |
| Below one month | 6-8 inches | Small (1-inch width) |
| 2-3 month | 9-12 inches | Small to Medium (1.5 inches width) |
| 4-10 month | 12-16 inches | Medium to Large (1.5 inches width) |
| 10 months and above (adult dog) | 16-24 inches | Large to Extra Large(1.5 inches width) |
What Materials Should You Look For in Golden Retriever Dog Collars?
Dog collars are made from a variety of materials that are built for comfort, aesthetics, and durability.
Golden Retrievers are medium to large dogs that can put their collar through the wringer, so durability should be one of the top things on your list!
Nylon or polyester are the most popular materials and offer the greatest range of designs, colors, and widths. Nylon and polyester are highly flexible fabrics that are also relatively easy to clean.
Cotton Fabric
Cotton offers great durability, insulation, and the ability to control moisture. What’s more is that there easy to clean, cost-effective and easy to maintain.
Many collars are made of cotton in a number of different designs and colors. Some contain a cloth sleeve on the inside around a nylon band to increase the longevity of the collar.
Biothane
Some dog collars are made of Biothane, which is a waterproof substance. Biothane is made of polyester and layered with polyurethane and polyvinyl.
Its waterproof properties make them ideal for Golden Retrievers that are more than likely, water-loving dogs.
Leather
Leather is a durable, organic material with plenty of styles. Although they are more costly, they are an excellent choice for Golden Retrievers with allergies or sensitivities.
Unlike collars made of synthetic materials, it is simple to clean and may be used for several years without fading.
Neoprene
Neoprene is a rubber-based substance that is used for a variety of applications. It has exceptional water resistance and does not retain moisture, which can lead to the development of odors or mildew.
Neoprene dog collars combined with nylon or polyester are incredibly strong and durable and able to last several years.
Polyester or Nylon
Nylon or polyester collars often have the greatest range of designs, colors, and sizes due to their popularity.
Nylon and polyester are highly flexible, synthetic fabrics that are also relatively easy to clean.
Types of Collars For Golden Retriever Puppy
There are various types of dog collars. While not exhaustive, here’s a list of some.
- Martingale Collars: Martingale collars, often known as “no-slip” collars, are designed to tighten when your dog pulls. However, unlike slip or choke collars, you can set the limit to which the collar can close.
- Rope Collars: Rope collars are both comfortable and long-lasting, without being abrasive on the skin.
- Flat Front Dog Collars: These are your everyday collars that are the most commonly found. They are a flat, fabric-type collar that fastens with a plastic or metal buckle.
Training or Aversive Collars
This group of collars includes:
- Shock collars
- Prong collars
- Slip collars or choke chains
They are designed to give a firm correction in the form of discomfort or pain when an undesirable behavior is displayed.
A shock collar delivers an electric shock, or vibration which is controlled remotely.
This is a form of correction to a specific behavior, and while their use is justified in some adult dogs that have aggression, they are not suitable for use on puppies that need positive reinforcement.
Read More: >> What are the Best shock collars for Golden Retrievers?
A prong collar also called a pinch collar, is a type of collar that applies pressure to a dog’s neck with blunt prongs. It is similar to a choke chain but has blunt prongs that do not damage the dog’s neck.
And the most common training collar is the slip collar or choke chain. It does exactly that if used incorrectly, choke the dog.
When it comes to puppies, there are a lot of things that people get wrong. One of the most common mistakes is using a choke chain on a puppy – and it’s something that you really shouldn’t do.
The thing about choke chains is that they can be really dangerous if they aren’t used properly. They can cause serious injury to a puppy’s neck and sensitive trachea, and they can even choke the puppy to death.
These collars are not meant for beginners and should be used with care by experienced trainers only. You should avoid using them on young pups and only use this as a last resort when all other training methods have failed.
If your pup is exhibiting behavior severe enough to warrant a stern correction, it might be better for you to seek help from a professional.
Recommended Dog Collars For Golden Retriever Puppies
- Soft-Touch Real Leather Padded Dog Collar
- Dogline Leather Collar
- Max and Neo NEO Nylon Buckle Reflective Dog Collar
Frequently Asked Questions
How Tight Should A Golden Retriever Collar Be?
Ideally, you should be able to squeeze two fingers between your Golden Retriever’s neck and collar with little difficulty.
If you can move much fit much more than two fingers between the collar and their neck, the collar is too loose and can slip over his head.
To ensure that you start with the right size collar and can easily adjust it as needed, it’s a good idea to measure your dog’s neck before purchasing a collar for him.
Where Should the Collar of Your Dog Be Placed on Their Neck?
Flat collars should be worn at the base of your dog’s neck.
Headcollars are worn higher on the dog’s neck, with the collar resting just behind the dog’s ears instead of traditional collars.
If you’re using a collar, pay attention to the manufacturer guidelines for where the collar should be placed on your dog’s neck.
What Kind Of Collar Does A Golden Retriever Puppy Need?
Golden Retriever puppies will grow fast, so get an adjustable collar that’s easy to wash, easy to put on, take off, and ideally offers a placeholder for a nametag.
A flat buckled collar made out of comfortable, durable materials would be enough. Avoid using training collars like choke chains and shock collars on young puppies.
How Do I Prepare My Home For A Golden Retriever Puppy?
Start by puppy-proofing the home thoroughly to remove any dangers that a puppy might face like electrical cords and wiring.
Then, you’ll need to have a safe place for the puppy to sleep, plenty of food and water bowls, and plenty of toys.
You’ll also need to have a collar and leash so you can take the puppy for walks, and a crate so the puppy can’t get into trouble when you’re not home.
Conclusion
Golden Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds in the US for a reason. They’re friendly, affectionate, and make wonderful additions to the family.
Remember, your puppy might outgrow their collar in no time, so it might be prudent to get something affordable for a start.
No matter which one you choose, make sure to keep that furry friend safe and happy with plenty of walks and playtime!
Be sure to check out our best dog collars post for Golden Retrievers here.
