Dog Collar Sizes Explained: XS, S, M, L, XL and XXL

Buying a dog collar sounds simple until you reach the size menu.

XS. S. M. L. XL. XXL.

Which one does your dog actually need?

It's tempting to choose based on your dog's breed, weight, or the size they wore from another brand. But dog collar sizing isn't universal.

A Medium collar from one company can have completely different measurements from a Medium somewhere else.

That's why the most important number isn't the letter on the size label.

It's your dog's actual neck measurement.

In this guide, we'll explain LA Dog Store collar sizes from XS through XXL, show you the corresponding neck ranges and collar widths, and explain how to measure your dog before ordering.

LA Dog Store Dog Collar Size Chart

Here is the complete LA Dog Store sizing range:

Size	Neck Size	Collar Width
XS	6–8" (15–20 cm)	3/8" (1.0 cm)
S	8–11" (20–28 cm)	3/4" (2.0 cm)
M	11–14" (28–36 cm)	1" (2.5 cm)
L	14–18" (36–46 cm)	1" (2.5 cm)
XL	18–22" (46–56 cm)	1" (2.5 cm)
XXL	22–26" (56–66 cm)	1.5" (3.8 cm)

Sizing Tip

Measure your dog's neck before ordering. If your dog falls between two sizes, size up.

Don't choose the size based only on breed or weight.

What Do Dog Collar Sizes Actually Mean?

Size labels such as Small or Large are simply convenient names for measurement ranges.

They aren't standardized across every dog collar brand.

For example, your dog might wear:

Medium in one brand

but

Large in another.

That doesn't mean either company is sizing incorrectly.

It simply means they use different measurement ranges.

This is why you should always look at the neck measurement associated with the size, rather than choosing based on the letter alone.

For LA Dog Store:

XS means 6–8 inches.

S means 8–11 inches.

M means 11–14 inches.

And so on.

The measurement is what matters.

How to Measure Your Dog's Neck for a Collar

You'll need a flexible measuring tape.

A fabric sewing tape works particularly well.

Step 1: Find Where the Collar Normally Sits

Place the measuring tape around the area of your dog's neck where the collar naturally rests.

Don't measure too high under the jaw or too low toward the shoulders.

Step 2: Keep the Measuring Tape Snug

The tape should follow the neck without squeezing it.

You don't want it hanging loosely.

But you also shouldn't pull it tightly into the neck.

Think:

Snug—not tight.

Step 3: Read the Measurement

Write down the neck circumference in inches or centimeters.

Measure again if you're unsure.

Taking two measurements only takes a few extra seconds and can help prevent ordering the wrong size.

Step 4: Compare It with the Size Chart

Once you know the neck measurement, compare it with the LA Dog Store size ranges.

For example:

If your dog's neck measures 13 inches, that falls within:

M → 11–14 inches

If the neck measures 17 inches, that falls within:

L → 14–18 inches

It's much more reliable than guessing based on breed.

What If My Dog Is Between Two Sizes?

If your dog's measurement falls between LA Dog Store sizes, size up.

For example, if your dog's measurement sits right at the transition between two ranges, choosing the larger adjustable size generally provides more flexibility than using the smaller collar near its maximum adjustment.

Sizing up can also provide some flexibility for dogs that:

• Are still growing

• Have changing coat thickness

• Experience minor weight changes

• Receive substantial grooming

Always check the actual fit once the collar is on your dog.

XS Dog Collar: 6–8 Inches

Neck Size

6–8" (15–20 cm)

Collar Width

3/8" (1.0 cm)

XS is the smallest LA Dog Store collar size.

The narrow 3/8-inch width is designed to create more appropriate proportions for very small necks.

Instead of using the same width for every dog, the smaller width keeps the collar from visually overwhelming a petite dog.

Who Is XS For?

The answer depends on neck measurement—not breed.

A very small dog may fall within the XS range, but don't assume every dog of a particular small breed will.

Measure first.

S Dog Collar: 8–11 Inches

Neck Size

8–11" (20–28 cm)

Collar Width

3/4" (2.0 cm)

The Small collar moves up to a 3/4-inch width.

This provides more visual presence than XS while remaining proportional for smaller neck sizes.

If your dog's neck falls between 8 and 11 inches, compare the measurement carefully with this range.

Again, breed alone isn't enough to determine whether Small is correct.

M Dog Collar: 11–14 Inches

Neck Size

11–14" (28–36 cm)

Collar Width

1" (2.5 cm)

The Medium collar introduces the 1-inch width used across several LA Dog Store sizes.

At this point, the wider collar can create a more balanced look for a larger neck while also providing more visual space for the collar color and style.

For dogs wearing a Bow Tie or other decorative accessory, the 1-inch collar can also create a substantial base without requiring an excessively wide design.

L Dog Collar: 14–18 Inches

Neck Size

14–18" (36–46 cm)

Collar Width

1" (2.5 cm)

Large continues with the 1-inch collar width while increasing the adjustable neck range.

This is an important example of why width and neck size aren't the same thing.

Medium and Large both use a 1-inch width, but their neck measurement ranges are different.

So when choosing between M and L, look at the neck circumference—not just collar width.

XL Dog Collar: 18–22 Inches

Neck Size

18–22" (46–56 cm)

Collar Width

1" (2.5 cm)

XL also uses the 1-inch width while accommodating a larger neck circumference.

For dogs in this size range, the collar can create a clean, substantial appearance without becoming unnecessarily wide.

As always, check the actual measurement rather than assuming a larger breed automatically requires XL.

XXL Dog Collar: 22–26 Inches

Neck Size

22–26" (56–66 cm)

Collar Width

1.5" (3.8 cm)

XXL is the largest LA Dog Store collar size.

It also increases the collar width to 1.5 inches.

The additional width creates proportions better suited to a substantially larger neck and helps the collar remain visually balanced on a bigger dog.

But even for a large dog, measure first.

A dog's overall body size doesn't tell you their exact neck circumference.

Why Collar Width Changes with Size

You may have noticed that LA Dog Store collars don't all use the same width.

That's intentional.

The widths are:

XS → 3/8"

S → 3/4"

M → 1"

L → 1"

XL → 1"

XXL → 1.5"

Imagine putting a 1.5-inch collar on a tiny dog.

It could look disproportionately large.

Now imagine an extremely narrow 3/8-inch collar on a very large dog.

It may look visually undersized.

Changing the width helps maintain better proportions across the size range.

Neck Size vs. Collar Width: What's the Difference?

These two measurements are easy to confuse.

Neck Size

This determines whether the collar fits around your dog's neck.

For example:

14–18 inches

Collar Width

This describes how wide the collar band itself is.

For example:

1 inch

You need to consider both.

Neck circumference is the primary measurement for choosing size, while width affects proportion and how the collar looks and sits.

How Should a Dog Collar Fit?

Once you've chosen the correct size, you'll still need to adjust it.

A commonly used starting point is the two-finger rule.

You should generally be able to fit approximately two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck.

The collar should feel:

Secure without being restrictive.

It shouldn't press tightly into the neck.

But it also shouldn't hang so loosely that it constantly rotates or appears capable of slipping over the head.

Signs the Collar May Be Too Tight

Check the fit if you notice:

• Difficulty sliding fingers under the collar

• Visible pressure against the neck

• Redness

• Rubbing

• Hair loss

• Frequent scratching

• Sensitivity around the collar area

• Apparent discomfort

If you notice persistent irritation, pain, swelling, breathing difficulty, or another concerning symptom, remove the collar when safe and consult your veterinarian.

Signs the Collar May Be Too Loose

The collar may need adjustment if:

• It hangs noticeably away from the neck

• It rotates constantly

• The buckle repeatedly moves around the neck

• A Bow Tie continually moves to the side

• The collar appears capable of slipping over the dog's head

• Your dog can easily get a paw or jaw caught underneath it

Don't solve excessive looseness by automatically tightening the collar as much as possible.

First make sure you selected the correct size.

Should I Choose Collar Size Based on My Dog's Breed?

No—not by breed alone.

Breed can give you a general idea of body size, but dogs within the same breed can have different neck measurements.

For example, two dogs of the same breed may differ because of:

• Age

• Sex

• Body structure

• Weight

• Coat thickness

• Individual genetics

That's why questions such as:

"What size collar does a French Bulldog wear?"

don't have one universally correct answer.

Measure the individual dog's neck.

Can I Choose Collar Size Based on Weight?

Weight can sometimes provide general context, but it isn't precise enough to determine collar size.

Two dogs weighing the same amount may have completely different:

• Neck shapes

• Body proportions

• Coat thickness

• Head-to-neck ratios

Use a measuring tape instead.

It takes less than a minute and gives you much more useful information.

What About Puppies?

Puppies require extra attention because their neck size can change quickly.

If you're buying a collar for a growing puppy:

• Measure before ordering

• Check the fit frequently

• Use the available adjustment range

• Re-measure as the puppy grows

• Move to the next size when necessary

Don't assume a collar that fitted correctly a month ago still fits today.

Does Grooming Affect Collar Size?

It can—especially for long-haired dogs.

A thick coat may affect how the collar sits.

After a substantial haircut, you may notice that the same collar feels looser.

As the coat grows back, the fit may change again.

After significant grooming:

Recheck the collar.

Don't rely only on the previous adjustment.

Short-Haired vs. Long-Haired Dogs

Coat type doesn't change the importance of measuring, but it can affect how you evaluate fit.

Short-Haired Dogs

Because there's less fur around the neck, it's often easier to:

• See the collar

• Check skin underneath

• Notice rubbing

• Evaluate collar position

Long-Haired Dogs

Thick fur can make a collar look tighter or looser than it really is.

Check the actual fit underneath the coat.

Never tighten a collar simply to make it more visible through long fur.

What Size Collar Should I Buy for a Bow Tie?

The collar size should still be determined by your dog's neck measurement.

Don't change collar size because you're adding a Bow Tie.

LA Dog Store's standard wedding-style Bow Ties are approximately:

5" × 2.5"

The decorative accessory doesn't replace proper collar sizing.

Choose the correct collar first.

Then consider whether the Bow Tie looks proportional to your dog.

What About a Flower Bow Tie?

LA Dog Store Flower Bow Ties are approximately:

5.5" × 4"

Because they're larger than standard Bow Ties, they create more visual impact.

This can work especially well on dogs with thicker or longer coats, where a smaller accessory might become partially hidden.

However, you should still select the collar size from the dog's neck measurement.

Never size up simply because you want a larger decorative look.

Choosing Collar Size for a Floral Collar

A floral arrangement can make a collar look more substantial, but the underlying collar still needs to fit correctly.

Choose size according to:

Actual neck circumference

not:

The size of the flowers.

Once the collar is fitted, check that the floral arrangement doesn't interfere with:

• Head movement

• Jaw movement

• Walking

• Sitting

• Lying down

The decorative element should complement the collar—not change how tightly it needs to fit.

Does Collar Material Change the Size I Need?

You should always use the specific size chart provided for the collar you're purchasing rather than assuming that materials use standardized sizing.

LA Dog Store collars use:

Soft Vegan Leather (PU Leather).

Choose your LA Dog Store size based on the measurement ranges in this guide.

The available sizes run from XS through XXL, with different widths designed for different size ranges.

LA Dog Store Collar Colors

Once you've figured out the correct size, you can move on to the fun part:

Color.

LA Dog Store collar colors include:

Apricot Orange, Black, Blue Light, Blush, Champagne, Citrus, Copper, Dusty Blue, Dusty Olive, Emerald Green, Gold, Gray, Green, Ivory, Lilac, Mint, Navy, Purple, Raspberry Rose, Red, River Blue, Rose Gold, Royal Blue, Sage Green, Silver, Soft Pink, Tan, Teal Blue, White (Crystal Buckle), and White (Plain Buckle).

Size should come first.

Then you can choose the color and style you love.

Which Collar Color Should I Choose?

There's no correct answer.

You can choose based on:

• Coat color

• Personality

• Season

• Photography

• Occasion

• Personal preference

For example:

Black or Dark Coat

Try:

Ivory, Champagne, Sage Green, Dusty Blue, Gold, Blush

White or Cream Coat

Try:

Navy, Emerald Green, Royal Blue, Black, Purple, Red

Brown or Tan Coat

Try:

Sage Green, Navy, Dusty Blue, Emerald Green, Ivory, Teal Blue

But these are style suggestions—not rules.

The best color is ultimately the one you like on your dog.

A Simple Dog Collar Sizing Example

Suppose you measure your dog's neck and get:

13 inches.

Check the chart:

XS → 6–8"

S → 8–11"

M → 11–14"

L → 14–18"

Your dog's measurement falls within Medium.

So you would start with:

M — 11–14" neck range — 1" width

Then adjust the collar once it arrives and check the fit using the two-finger guideline.

That's much more reliable than guessing based on whether your dog "looks Medium."

Another Example

Suppose your dog's neck measures:

20 inches.

The size chart shows:

L → 14–18"

XL → 18–22"

XXL → 22–26"

That places the dog within:

XL — 18–22" neck range — 1" width

Again, the measurement makes the decision much easier.

Common Dog Collar Sizing Mistakes

Mistake 1: Ordering the Same Size as Another Brand

A Medium isn't universally a Medium.

Check measurements every time.

Mistake 2: Choosing by Breed

Dogs within the same breed can have different neck sizes.

Mistake 3: Choosing by Weight

Weight doesn't tell you exact neck circumference.

Mistake 4: Measuring an Old Collar Instead of the Dog

Whenever possible, measure the dog's actual neck.

Mistake 5: Pulling the Measuring Tape Too Tight

You want a realistic neck measurement—not the smallest number you can achieve.

Mistake 6: Leaving the Tape Extremely Loose

Too much extra space can result in choosing a collar that's unnecessarily large.

Mistake 7: Ignoring Collar Width

Neck circumference determines size, but width also affects proportions and appearance.

Mistake 8: Never Rechecking the Fit

Puppies grow. Dogs gain or lose weight. Coats change.

Check again periodically.

Quick Dog Collar Size Checklist

Before ordering:

✓ Measure your dog's actual neck

✓ Measure where the collar normally sits

✓ Keep the tape snug, not tight

✓ Compare the measurement with the size chart

✓ If between sizes, size up

✓ Check the collar width

✓ Don't choose by breed alone

✓ Don't assume another brand uses the same sizing

After the collar arrives:

✓ Adjust it to your dog

✓ Check the two-finger guideline

✓ Watch your dog move naturally

✓ Make sure it isn't excessively loose

✓ Check underneath for rubbing or irritation

✓ Recheck the fit periodically

Dog Collar Size Chart at a Glance

XS
Neck: 6–8" (15–20 cm)
Width: 3/8" (1.0 cm)

S
Neck: 8–11" (20–28 cm)
Width: 3/4" (2.0 cm)

M
Neck: 11–14" (28–36 cm)
Width: 1" (2.5 cm)

L
Neck: 14–18" (36–46 cm)
Width: 1" (2.5 cm)

XL
Neck: 18–22" (46–56 cm)
Width: 1" (2.5 cm)

XXL
Neck: 22–26" (56–66 cm)
Width: 1.5" (3.8 cm)

Sizing Tip: If your dog falls between sizes, size up.

Conclusion

Understanding dog collar sizes becomes much easier once you stop focusing on labels like XS, S, M, L, XL, and XXL and start focusing on measurements.

The most important step is simple:

Measure your dog's neck.

Then compare that measurement with the collar's specific size chart.

For LA Dog Store, collar sizes range from:

XS — 6–8 inches

through

XXL — 22–26 inches

with collar widths increasing from 3/8 inch to 1.5 inches depending on size.

Once you've found the correct size, adjust the collar so it's secure and comfortable. The commonly used two-finger rule provides a useful starting point for checking fit.

Then comes the fun part.

Choose the Soft Vegan Leather collar color, Bow Tie, Floral Collar, Flower Bow Tie, or other style that suits your dog.

Because size should never be a guessing game.

Measure first. Fit second. Style third.

That's the simplest way to find a collar that looks great and fits comfortably.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size dog collar do I need?

Measure your dog's neck where the collar normally sits, then compare that measurement with the specific collar size chart. Don't choose size based only on breed or weight.

What are the LA Dog Store collar sizes?

LA Dog Store offers XS 6–8", S 8–11", M 11–14", L 14–18", XL 18–22", and XXL 22–26".

What size collar should I get if my dog is between sizes?

For LA Dog Store collars, if your dog's neck measurement falls between sizes, size up.

Are dog collar sizes the same across all brands?

No. Collar size labels aren't universal. A Medium from one brand may have a different measurement range from a Medium sold by another brand.

How tight should a dog collar be?

A commonly used guideline is that approximately two fingers should fit between the collar and your dog's neck. It should be secure without pressing tightly or hanging excessively loose.

What is the width of an XS dog collar?

LA Dog Store XS collars are 3/8" (1.0 cm) wide and fit neck measurements of 6–8" (15–20 cm).

What is the width of a Medium dog collar?

LA Dog Store Medium collars are 1" (2.5 cm) wide and fit neck measurements of 11–14" (28–36 cm).

What is the largest LA Dog Store collar size?

XXL is the largest size, fitting neck measurements of 22–26" (56–66 cm) with a 1.5" (3.8 cm) collar width.

Can I choose my dog's collar size based on breed?

Breed can provide general context, but it shouldn't replace measuring. Dogs within the same breed can have different neck circumferences.

Should I remeasure my puppy for a collar?

Yes. Puppies can grow quickly, so check collar fit frequently and remeasure as they grow.