We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Shopping Pet Products The 14 Best Dog Collars of 2024, Tested and Reviewed The Orvis Reflective Dog Collar is comfortable, safe, and built to last By Madison Yauger Madison Yauger Madison Yauger is a shopping editor at PEOPLE.com with eight years of digital media and journalism experience. She has a penchant for lifestyle content with a focus on staples like cozy throw blankets, chic dog jackets, Away luggage, and the linen pants celebrities can’t stop wearing. People Editorial Guidelines Updated on September 4, 2024 11:17AM EDT In This Article View All In This Article Our Top Picks Reviews What to Know Behind the Scenes FAQ Why Trust PEOPLE? What Is PEOPLE Tested? Photo: People / Kristin Kempa It’s easy to get caught up in how adorable a dog collar will look on your pup. But what we often forget is the life that collar will live alongside your best friend — enduring every adventure, appearing in every photo and memory, and being worn most hours of the day. So, it’s important to buy a dog collar that’s worthy of the job. Experts Say “Ultimately, the choice of a dog collar should be based on your dog's specific needs, comfort, and safety. Consider their individual characteristics and consult with a veterinarian or a professional dog trainer if you have any concerns or questions.” — Dr. Gabrielle Fadl, Director of Primary Care, Bond Vet Our team tested 34 top-rated dog collars from top brands to find standouts that will pass the test of time. We also consulted with a professional dog trainer and a veterinarian for their insight. After looking at fit, design, functionality, and durability (and consulting Murphy, Beckett, and 28 other dogs), these dog collars have earned a PEOPLE Tested recommendation. Read on for the best dog collars PEOPLE Tested and approved for our actual dogs. What to Know About Dog Collars Material “Look for materials that are durable, non-irritating, and safe for your dog's skin,” says Dr. Fadl. She recommends a few options featured in the dog collars on our list. Nylon: It’s “lightweight, easy to clean, and durable — a good choice for everyday collars.”Leather: Genuine leather can be “comfortable, stylish, and last a long time with proper care.” She advises that leather collars may require more maintenance than fabric collars.Biothane: This is a “synthetic material that is waterproof, durable, and easy to clean.”Neoprene: You’ll usually see this material in the padding of collars. “Neoprene-padded collars are comfortable and suitable for dogs with sensitive skin.” Fastener “Choose a latch or fastener that is secure but not harmful to your dog,” advises Dr. Fadl. She recommends buckle closures, quick-release buckles, and Martingale-style closures — all of which are featured in our list for their ease of use and safety aspects. Buckle Closure: The same concept as a belt buckle, this fastener uses a prong and a series of holes to fasten the sides together. Quick-Release Buckle: This is a fastener you can pinch from both sides to release the latch in seconds. “Quick-release buckles are convenient for easy removal in emergencies,” says Dr. Fadl. Martingale-Style: This is basically a slip-on collar, without fasteners, that tightens when your dog pulls hard on the leash (to avoid them accidentally slipping out of it) and loosens as soon as the tension is gone (when they stop pulling). “Martingale collars are best for dogs whose heads are smaller or the same size as their neck,” Dharma Dog NYC professional dog trainer Alison Buehler tells PEOPLE. Adjustability One of the most important aspects of a dog collar is how it fits, and the ability to adjust it can make a huge difference in your pup’s comfort and safety. “A good collar should be adjustable to ensure a snug but not tight fit,” says Dr. Fadl. “Most collars have multiple holes for adjustment, and you should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between the collar and your dog's neck.” Buehler adds that you should “check and readjust puppy collars frequently since they grow so fast.” Durability If you’re investing in a collar, you want it to last. Dr. Fadl suggests you make sure “the collar is sturdy and able to withstand your dog's activities and pulling on the leash.” She adds that clear indicators of a well-made collar are “reinforced stitching and quality hardware.” She also recommends periodically checking the collar and replacing it if it becomes damaged or your dog is outgrowing it. Safety Features Several of the considerations we’ve discussed contribute to safety, but there are also features like reflective strips or stitching and light-up technology that can help protect your dog, especially at night or in other low-light conditions. Dr. Fadl also strongly discourages any use of collars that include hazardous elements “such as sharp or protruding parts, choking hazards, or materials that could cause allergic reactions.” Our Top Picks Best Overall: ORVIS Personalized Reflective Collar at Orvis.com Jump to Review Best Budget: PetSafe Martingale Collar at Amazon $8 Jump to Review Best Leather: Soft Touch Collars Leather Padded Dog Collar at Amazon $26 Jump to Review Best Personalized: GoTags Nylon Personalized Dog Collar at Amazon $19 Jump to Review Best Waterproof: Tuff Pupper Leather Dog Collar at Amazon $14 Jump to Review Best for Small Dogs: SALE Blueberry Pet Soft & Safe Dog Collar at Amazon $22 $15 Jump to Review Best for Large Dogs: SALE Black Rhino The Comfort Collar at Amazon $22 $15 Jump to Review Best Light-Up: Blazin Light-Up Dog Collar at Amazon $22 Jump to Review Best Reflective: Joytale Reflective Dog Collar at Amazon $9 Jump to Review Best Size Range: Illumiseen LED Dog Collar at Amazon $18 Jump to Review Best Overall ORVIS Personalized Reflective Collar PHOTO: ORVIS View on Orvis.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 5/5 Star Qualities Lightweight yet highly durable Reflective coating for good visibility at night Lets you forgo noisy ID tags Dog seemed comfortable wearing it Red Flags Personalization font is a little large A lovable 75-pound mutt named Murphy got to experience the Orvis Reflective Dog Collar, personalized with his name and owner's phone nunber. He wore it during walks, playdates, and other activities without showing any discomfort. His owner appreciated the collar’s lightweight design and easy-to-use quick-release buckle. Once the collar was adjusted to fit properly, it stayed secure. Our tester found the collar’s design comfortable, stylish, and secure. Its high reflectivity ensured good nighttime visibility, and the personalization eliminated the need for jingling ID tags. Although the font size was slightly larger than our tester preferred, it wasn’t a dealbreaker. Made from heavy-duty nylon, the collar looked brand new after weeks of use and was easy to wash with soap and water. Considering the personalization element, the reflective safety feature, and the sturdy materials, the Orvis dog collar is well priced, and Murphy’s owner said they would have paid even more for such a high-quality collar. Material: Heavy-duty nylon | Sizes: S–XL | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 8 | Fastener: Quick-release buckle | Personalization: Yes | Safety Features: Reflective material, tapered edges for comfort, steel D-ring for secure leash attachment PHOTO: People / Courtney Thompson PHOTO: People / Courtney Thompson PHOTO: People / Courtney Thompson Best Budget PetSafe Martingale Collar PHOTO: Chewy $8 at Amazon $8 at Walmart $8 at Chewy Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 5/5 Star Qualities Ideal for large dogs who pull on walks Nylon fabric survived rain and washing with soap and water Fastener is quick to attach and adjusts easily Red Flags Disjointed design When you’re walking a 95-pound Mastiff mix that likes to chase small critters, you want a strong and secure collar, and that’s what Riggs’ owner found in the PetSafe Martingale Collar. This budget-friendly collar is one of the lowest-priced options we found, but it’s highly effective for walking strong dogs due to the Martingale design. Riggs wore the collar on walks and while running around the backyard, but the owner didn’t feel comfortable with him wearing it unsupervised in the house in case it got stuck on a piece of furniture. Riggs’ owner said the buckle was easy to fasten, the collar fit well, and it continuously felt secure, but not restrictive on the dog. The hardware and nylon fabric lasted against many types of weather and were easy to clean with soap and water. If there was one thing to change, our tester would have preferred the metal buckle be the same material as the D-ring, so it looked more cohesive. Other than that, Riggs’ owner was excited by the quality and effectiveness of the collar on walks and plans to use it as Riggs’ primary collar going forward. Add it to your dog supplies along with a doggie raincoat and a leash. Material: Nylon | Sizes: S, M, L, Petite | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 5 | Fastener: Quick-release buckle and Martingale style | Personalization: No | Safety Features: Martingale design to prevent dogs from slipping out of the collar PHOTO: People / Sarah Sorensen PHOTO: People / Sarah Sorensen PHOTO: People / Sarah Sorensen PHOTO: People / Sarah Sorensen PHOTO: People / Sarah Sorensen Best Leather Soft Touch Collars Leather Padded Dog Collar PHOTO: Amazon $26 at Amazon $26 at Chewy View on Softtouchcollars.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 4.5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 5/5 Star Qualities Design made the dog look fancy and expensive Made of durable, quick-drying genuine leather Comfortably padded Red Flags Hard to adjust at first due to stiffness of leather Charlie always looks adorable, but this leather dog collar also earned him praise for looking “fancy” and “expensive” by family members. The 90-pound Springer Spaniel-Collie mix wore the collar at home, on walks and hikes, in the car, and even for swims in the lake. His owner did take it off at night, but he said Charlie didn’t seem to mind the collar at all. The buckle was a little challenging to manipulate at first since the leather hadn’t softened yet, but the process became much easier as the leather was broken in with use. It feels lightweight when you hold it but is substantial and secure when worn by the dog. Even after Charlie went swimming, the leather dried almost immediately and didn’t show much wear and tear, despite extensive use. Our tester added that if it does get distressed over time, it would still look stylish. It’s easily wiped down to clean, has some padding for comfort, and the price is really good, considering it’s genuine leather. Our tester also appreciated the gold hardware and said they wouldn’t change a thing. Material: Leather | Sizes: S–XL | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 6 | Fastener: Classic buckle | Personalization: No | Safety Features: No chemicals or dyes, natural leather, padded interior, brass D-ring and hardware, lifetime warranty PHOTO: People / Taylor Rock PHOTO: People / Taylor Rock PHOTO: People / Taylor Rock PHOTO: People / Taylor Rock PHOTO: People / Taylor Rock Best Personalized GoTags Nylon Personalized Dog Collar PHOTO: Amazon $19 at Amazon Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Star Qualities Lightweight Never got dirty during testing Easy to fasten with one hand Red Flags No reflective element Similar to our best overall pick, the GoTags Nylon Collar can also be personalized, eliminating the need for tags and adding an extra layer of security right on the collar itself. Our tester’s dog wore the collar at home and on walks throughout the testing period. At 22 pounds, the dog is on the smaller side, and our tester liked how lightweight the collar was so it didn’t put pressure on the dog’s neck. Our tester also appreciated that it was so easy to adjust and fasten (even with one hand). They said once in place, the collar never came off unless taken off, and felt really secure. It never really got dirty, but for testing’s sake, our tester cleaned the collar with soap and water and it remained looking brand-new. They loved the personalization and noted that the stitching was well done, with no loose threads or fraying. If anything could improve, it would be adding some reflective thread as an option to aid on night walks. But overall, our testing team appreciated the price and quality of the collar. Material: Nylon | Sizes: XS–L | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 5 | Fastener: Quick-release buckle | Personalization: Yes | Safety Features: Stainless steel D-ring Best Waterproof Tuff Pupper Leather Dog Collar PHOTO: Amazon $14 at Amazon View on Tuffpupper.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 5/5 Star Qualities Material held up well Comfortable and soft on dog's neck Easy to buckle and attach to a leash Red Flags Not actual leather If you have a Labrador or Lab mix like our tester’s dog, Ronny, you know it’s impossible to keep them out of the water. That said, any dog could benefit from a waterproof collar like the Tuff Pupper collar. Ronny wore this collar every day for two weeks — on walks, while sleeping, and for every adventure in between. The TPU-coated webbing material held up beautifully against all water as well as other dirt and debris. Ronny’s owner said you can tell it’s a tough and well-made material, and throughout wear, it showed little to no signs of damage. Yet despite its durability, the material is soft, and Ronny seemed comfortable wearing it. When securing the collar on the dog, our tester found the buckle easy to fasten (like a belt), and the collar simple to attach to a leash. The collar has a good weight to it but isn’t bulky, and the design kept it from loosening over time. It proved to be waterproof and was easily cleaned with a damp paper towel any time it showed dirty spots. Material: TPU-coated webbing | Sizes: XS–L | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 12 | Fastener: Classic buckle | Personalization: No | Safety Features: Secure buckle, stronger material than nylon or leather PHOTO: People / Emily Johnson PHOTO: People / Emily Johnson PHOTO: People / Emily Johnson PHOTO: People / Emily Johnson Best for Small Dogs Blueberry Pet Soft & Safe Dog Collar PHOTO: Amazon $15 at Amazon Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 4.5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 5/5 Star Qualities Soft, lightweight design Machine-washable Reflective for night-time safety Red Flags Reflective component could be brighter At 15 pounds, Mac the Shihpoo (Shihtzu-Poodle mix) was the perfect tester for the Blueberry dog collar. While it comes in a range of sizes, this collar is lightweight and has a three-quarter-inch width for the smallest size so it’s not too bulky around a dog’s neck. Mac wore the collar at all times throughout testing. With a quick-release buckle design, the collar was simple to fasten and adjust. The polyester webbing proved easy to clean (our tester threw it in the washing machine) and the neoprene padding provided a solid level of comfort. The fabric is also soft to the touch, which is a bonus if your dog sleeps with their collar. Mac has black fur, so the reflective stitching was helpful when he ran around the yard at night. The reflective component could stand to be a little brighter, but it's nice that it doesn’t need charging like a light-up collar. Material: Polyester webbing, neoprene padding | Sizes: S–L | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 12 | Fastener: Quick-release buckle | Personalization: No | Safety Features: Reflective PHOTO: People / Michelle Ehrich PHOTO: People / Michelle Ehrich PHOTO: People / Michelle Ehrich PHOTO: People / Michelle Ehrich PHOTO: People / Michelle Ehrich Best for Large Dogs Black Rhino The Comfort Collar PHOTO: Amazon $15 at Amazon Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 5/5 Star Qualities Made with comfortable materials Remained secure over time despite heavy usage and activity No signs of wear and tear Red Flags We didn't notice anything Beckett, a 58-pound chocolate Labrador retriever, is the quintessential big-dog test subject — she loves running, playing, hiking, and swimming, and this collar went along for the ride. Beckett’s owner found the collar almost ready to go out of the packaging, with very few adjustments needed. It buckled in seconds and didn’t loosen over time despite all the activity it experienced. In fact, after a month of heavy usage, it showed no signs of any wear and tear; the color was still bright and the hardware hadn’t been scratched. Neoprene is not only a waterproof material, it’s really soft, and the balance of nylon fabric with neoprene padding makes this collar durable and comfortable. It dried quickly after swims, and while Beckett is known for scratching at previous collars, she never did that with this one, indicating a higher level of comfort. Her owner used a brush to clean dirt off the collar and a wet sponge for any caked-on debris, and the collar has retained its original quality. It’s a high-performance dog collar at a reasonable price and works especially well for big dogs. Material: Nylon, neoprene | Sizes: S–XL | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 12 | Fastener: Classic buckle | Personalization: No | Safety Features: Padding for comfort, heavy-duty hardware Best Light-Up Blazin Light-Up Dog Collar PHOTO: Amazon $22 at Amazon Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 5/5 Star Qualities Simple to adjust, buckle, and attach to leash Cleaned up easily Red Flags Includes a blinking/strobe light mode Mochi, a 30-pound Corgi, is the perfect model for the Blazin LED Light-Up Collar. He used it every day for two weeks, for daytime activities and night walks. Mochi has a lot of fur, so while the collar might appear tight, our tester said it fit well and sits atop all the fur — not loose enough to slip off, but not so tight that it was uncomfortable. It proved easy to adjust and buckle and felt secure. The light-up component is a highlight, allowing for good visibility when your dog is running around at night. Our tester charged the collar at the beginning of the testing period and it didn’t need to be recharged after two weeks. There are three light modes, but Buehler says you should avoid blinking or strobe light effects since they can disorient your dog. Our tester enjoyed the lighted collar because Mochi is low to the ground and likes to disappear under bushes, so the lights helped his owner keep track of him. It saw some wear on a few muddy days, but our tester found the collar easy to clean. Material: Nylon | Sizes: XS–L | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 10 | Fastener: Quick-release buckle | Personalization: No | Safety Features: 3 light-up modes for night visibility, chargeable with a USB PHOTO: People / Angelyn Ochoa PHOTO: People / Angelyn Ochoa PHOTO: People / Angelyn Ochoa PHOTO: People / Angelyn Ochoa PHOTO: People / Angelyn Ochoa Best Reflective Joytale Reflective Dog Collar PHOTO: Amazon $9 at Amazon View on Temu.com View on Co.uk Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 5/5 Star Qualities Waterproof, reflective coating Best deal on our list Durable, comfortable materials Red Flags No personalization option Beckett also tested the Joytale Reflective Dog Collar for us (she definitely deserves an annual treat raise). She wore the collar during the day and at night to test the reflective elements and it functioned as promised. Beckett’s owner was surprised at how well the collar held up over time; the reflective coating didn’t lose its luster even after lake swims and lots of playing in the dirt and grass. The quick-release buckle is highly user-friendly, and the nylon and neoprene materials add to the overall durability and comfort of this collar. It took a few adjustments to find the perfect fit, but it stayed on securely from that moment onwards. It really doesn’t show dirt and still looked new after the month was up. Our tester didn’t even think it needed cleaning based on its stellar appearance. Considering the quality and low price, this is an awesome dog collar with the safety benefit of also being reflective. Material: Nylon, neoprene, plastic | Sizes: XS-XL | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 12 | Fastener: Quick-release buckle | Personalization: No | Safety Features: Reflective, quick-release buckle Best Size Range Illumiseen LED Dog Collar PHOTO: Chewy $18 at Amazon $18 at Chewy View on Illumiseen.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 5/5 Star Qualities Versatile size range One charge lasts a long time Every feature was user-friendly Very sturdy Red Flags Flashing light mode should be avoided The Illumiseen LED Dog Collar is another light-up option, but we actually want to praise it for the size range, which is the most versatile of any we found: It ranges from extra-extra-small to extra-large. The light-up feature was a huge benefit to our tester, who lives in a rural wooded area and whose dog is a 50-pound brown and black Boxer who tends to blend in with her surroundings. The light feature has been a game changer, especially for nighttime zoomies (the dog owners who get it, get it). Our tester thought the collar’s features were highly functional with a simple buckle, lightweight feel, and smooth adjustment capabilities. Plus, after one charge, the light feature worked for two weeks without needing a recharge. The nylon material is a proven favorite for durability and this collar showed no signs of damage or even wear and tear after weeks of a large, active dog wearing it. This collar also has a flashing light mode which we would caution you against using. Material: Nylon | Sizes: XXS–XL | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 6 | Fastener: Quick-release buckle | Personalization: No | Safety Features: Highly reflective for visibility at night, USB rechargeable PHOTO: People / Wendy Hill PHOTO: People / Wendy Hill PHOTO: People / Wendy Hill PHOTO: People / Wendy Hill PHOTO: People / Wendy Hill Best Adjustable Atlas Pet Company Lifetime Lite Collar PHOTO: Atlas Pet Company View on Atlaspetcompany.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 4.5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 5/5 Star Qualities Worked effectively for two different but equally active dogs Nylon webbing proved highly durable Easy to adjust Red Flags Hardware became tarnished after extensive use The Atlas Pet Company Lifetime Lite collar was tested by two of our dogs — Jet, a 52-pound Pitbull mix, and Fisher, an 80-pound Airedale Terrier. Jet wore the collar twice daily for three weeks (for walks, hikes, car rides, and naps), while Fisher wore it consistently for two weeks (for walks, hikes, swims, and to sleep). The nylon webbing held up against mud and rain, and though the buckle seemed to have a few tarnishes, the collar maintained an excellent condition. Both dog owners appreciated the magnetic buckle. One found it easy to fasten, while the other thought it was more challenging but appreciated that it stayed in place when their dog was active. Both found it easy to adjust. The owners didn’t think the collar looked bulky, and the collar didn’t impede any activities. That said, the larger of the two dogs comfortably wore a medium, so you should consider sizing down (there are neck measurements online). Our testers noticed that the dog tag loop was placed in an odd spot right next to the D-ring and felt that it could be a little bigger. After testing, the collars were washed and looked “good as new” after drying. Both testers agreed that while expensive, the collar isn’t overpriced given the quality. Material: Nylon webbing | Sizes: S–L | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 5 | Fastener: Quick-release magnetic buckle | Personalization: No | Safety Features: Rust-free hardware, quick-release buckle PHOTO: People / Danielle St. Pierre PHOTO: People / Danielle St. Pierre PHOTO: People / Danielle St. Pierre PHOTO: People / Danielle St. Pierre Best Colors Country Brook Design Martingale Dog Collar PHOTO: Amazon $13 at Amazon Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 5/5 Star Qualities Held up well despite lots of play Cleans up with a wet cloth Martingale design was effective on walks Red Flags Heavier than it looks If you appreciate the luxury of choice, the Country Brook collar has 23 colors to choose from, with bright options like mango, royal blue, and hot pink, to name a few. Our tester’s dog, a 65-pound Lab mix named Tito, wore this collar throughout the testing period, only taking it off for baths and for a few hours at night. There’s no buckle, as it is a Martingale-style collar, but it was easy for Tito to wear, and his owner kept it on a looser setting than normal in light of the Martingale security measure. Our tester said the collar was heavier than it looked, but that didn’t seem to bother Tito in the slightest, and the style of collar aided their walks when he pulled on the dog leash. His owner noticed some dirt and discoloration after several weeks of activity but was able to clean it with a wet cloth. They felt it could have been more lightweight, but other than that, the price, quality, and value were stellar. Material: Nylon, plastic, steel | Sizes: XS–XL | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 23 | Fastener: Slip-on (no fastener) | Personalization: No | Safety Features: Martingale design Best Durable If It Barks Martingale Collar PHOTO: Amazon $32 at Amazon Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 4.5/5 Star Qualities Includes both a quick-release buckle and a Martingale-style design Made of heavy-duty polyester and nylon Remained secure despite lots of energetic play Red Flags Basic appearance for the price WIth a heavy-duty buckle and polyester and nylon materials, the If It Barks collar is quite durable. A 50-pound Australian Shepherd wore it daily for two weeks. Our tester found the collar easy to buckle and secure but lightweight. It adjusted with ease and stayed on well despite lots of energetic activity. After the testing period, there was some grime from outdoor playtime, but the collar really didn’t show much wear or tear, and our tester cleaned it with soap and water, hanging it to dry. The collar has a basic appearance, so the price was a little surprising to our tester. That said, its durability makes this collar a long-lasting purchase, and the dual design offers the Martingale-style adjustment as well as a buckle for more versatility. Material: Polyester, nylon | Sizes: S, M, L, or custom | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 10 | Fastener: Quick-release buckle or Martingale design with no fastener | Personalization: No | Safety Features: Martingale design PHOTO: People / Sarah Brekke PHOTO: People / Sarah Brekke PHOTO: People / Sarah Brekke PHOTO: People / Sarah Brekke Best Design The Foggy Dog Dog Collar PHOTO: The Foggy Dog View on Thefoggydog.com Our Ratings Ease of Use 5/5 Design 5/5 Durability 5/5 Ease of Cleaning 5/5 Value 5/5 Star Qualities Holds up well to extended use Material is comfortable Showed no signs of wear after testing Red Flags Tricky to open loop to add an ID tag One of the largest dogs who assisted us with this test, 110-pound Winnie, a Great Pyrenees mix, dazzled in The Foggy Dog Collar. She wore the collar for walks, when hanging around the house, and on several car rides. Her owner thought it was easy to fasten and unfasten (though an editor on our team has the same collar and said it took the efforts of several people to get the ID tags on for her dog). The collar seemed a little heavy, but Winnie was unbothered, and once the right adjustments were made, it fit really well. The fabric is a blend of cotton and nylon, so it has a soft feel but is durable against elements like rain and rough play. The metal loop and gold hardware didn’t have any scuffing and the collar didn’t appear dirty — though it would be easy to spot clean if it had. Winnie rolls in grass several times a day, so the lack of grass stains was impressive. Overall, the collar has a very elevated design, and you can even get the buckle engraved (to forgo an ID tag). Material: Cotton, nylon | Sizes: XS–L | Adjustable: Yes | Colors: 12 | Fastener: Quick-release buckle | Personalization: Yes | Safety Features: Not listed PHOTO: People / Tatiana Kennedy PHOTO: People / Tatiana Kennedy PHOTO: People / Tatiana Kennedy Behind the Scenes Our team tested 34 top-rated dog collars, looking at qualities like fit and adjustability, security and durability, functionality and ease of cleaning, comfort, and design. To test each dog collar, we recruited 30 dogs (mostly belonging to staff) to wear each collar for a period of two to four weeks. Fit: Each collar was adjusted to the dog’s neck size, ensuring a secure but comfortable fit. Our dog trainer expert said to use three fingers in between the dog’s neck and the collar to ensure enough space (our veterinarian expert said two fingers, but either way provides a good test for fitting the collar properly).Design: Our team looked at the design in terms of materials — the look and feel of each collar. We considered the weight (especially for bulky collars and small dogs). We also considered the type of fastener, how secure it was for walks, but also how easily it could be removed if needed. All of the collars that made it on our list have quick-release buckles or classic buckles, or they don’t have a fastener but have a slip-on Martingale design. We also tested how easily the collars could be attached to a leash.Functionality: During the testing period, most of the dogs wore the collars throughout the day to test how functional they were in different settings. Were they comfortable to nap in? Secure enough when walking, running, or hiking? Were they waterproof? Did they dry quickly after lake swims or rainy walks?Durability: After conducting these tests, we looked at the condition of each dog collar. We found many to show little to no signs of wear and tear, but for the ones that had a little dirt or grime post-play, we washed them either using damp cloths, soap and water, or in some cases, throwing them in the washing machine and letting them air dry in the sun. Frequently Asked Questions How do you know if a dog collar fits properly? As mentioned, our experts slightly disagreed on the number of fingers, but generally being able to place two to three fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck “ensures that that collar is snug enough to stay on but not so tight that it causes discomfort or restricts breathing,” says Dr. Fadl. She suggests measuring your dog’s neck before purchasing a collar, as most brands have a size guide online with measurements to help make the best fit recommendation. Is it okay to leave a dog’s collar on all day? That’s up to each individual pet owner. In terms of safety and security, you could argue this point both ways. As Buehler says, “The primary purpose of a collar is to have identification on your dog,” so if your dog gets out of your home, having a collar on them at all times could lead to a quicker return. Plus, many dogs get used to wearing their collars which is why they might act funny when you take them off (say, on bath day). It becomes almost a security blanket for them. That said, many dog owners take collars off their pets at night to allow for more comfortable sleep, and some prefer to keep the collar off their dogs in the house when unsupervised out of caution. On that point, most experts do recommend taking off your dog’s collar if they are in a crate unsupervised, either at night while you’re asleep or if you’re not home because the collar can get stuck on the crate and cause a serious problem. Does a dog’s breed affect the collar they should get? Dr. Fadl says a dog’s breed and behavior can play a role in what makes the best collar for your pet. “Different dog breeds and temperaments may require different types of collars,” she says. “For example, if your dog is a heavy puller, a no-pull harness might be a better choice than a traditional collar.” Why Trust PEOPLE? Madison Yauger is a PEOPLE shopping editor with extensive experience writing about pet care and dog supplies of all kinds (frequently assisted by her Golden Retriever). For this story, she relied on testing insights from different staff and 30 dogs who tried these dog collars for several weeks. She also used insights from an interview with Dharma Dog NYC dog trainer Alison Buehler (conducted by PEOPLE research strategist Elise Wojczyk Wang) and insights from Bond Vet Director of Primary Care Dr. Gabrielle Fadl. Using all of this data, plus specifications from each brand on the individual products themselves, she crafted this list of the best-vetted dog collars that anyone on our team would feel confident letting their dogs wear. Our Expert Panel Gabrielle Fadl, D.V.M., is the director of primary care at Bond Vet in Brooklyn, New York. Dr. Fadl has been working in veterinary medicine for almost a decade. Alison Buehler is a certified professional dog trainer at Dharma Dog NYC, a dog training company also based in Brooklyn. Buehler also has a certification in separation anxiety training that provides expertise in working with more anxious pups. What Is PEOPLE Tested? We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs. But we don’t stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we’ve awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square. In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.