Although most dog owners walk their dogs in a harness and leash, your Goldendoodle must also wear a collar.
But why does your dog need a collar and a harness? What size collars do Goldendoodles need, since we know they come in different sizes? And what are the best collar options for a Goldendoodle?
Read this informational guide to find out!
Table of Contents
Comparison Table of The 7 Best Collars For Goldendoodle
IMAGE
BRAND
Link AKC Smart Dog Collar with GPS Tracker & Activity Monitor
DETAILS
- Intuitive smart collar
- Luxurious leather
- Durable and long-lasting
- Impressive features
- Detective feature
Pricing
BRAND
American Flag Dog Collar
DETAILS
- Unique, USA flag pattern
- Comfortable fit
- Durable and long-lasting
BRAND
Black Rhino Comfort Dog Collar
DETAILS
- Neoprene padding for comfort
- Suitable for all kinds of breed
- Durable nylon webbing
BRAND
Blueberry Pet Essentials Dog Collar
DETAILS
- Excellent value, smart collar
- Range of colors and sizes
- Simple buckle fastening
BRAND
Go Tags Personalized Dog Collar
DETAILS
- Can be personalized
- Vast range of colors and sizes
- Simple snap buckle fastener
BRAND
Petsafe Nylon Martingale Collar
DETAILS
- Perfect for growing puppies
- Range of colors and sizes
- Excellent quality
BRAND
Collar Direct Rolled Leather Dog Collar
DETAILS
- Super soft natural leather
- Durable, comfortable, stylish
- Excellent quality
Is A Collar Or A Harness Better For A Goldendoodle?
You might have noticed that most dog owners use a harness to walk their dogs these days rather than a traditional collar and leash.
But why is that? And is a collar or harness best for a Goldendoodle?
Collars – Friend Or Foe
Although attaching a leash to a dog’s collar is the quickest and simplest way of taking your pet for a stroll, that traditional approach is not the best for your dog.
In fact, leading your dog by his neck can result in all kinds of horrible injuries to your pet, especially if the collar doesn’t fit correctly.
Collar Injuries
Primarily, dogs that pull against their collars place considerable pressure on their lymph nodes, thyroid, and mandibular gland, esophagus, and trachea. When a dog suddenly lunges forward, the tug on his collar can apply as much as 5Nm, which is around the same degree of force you’d need to use to tighten a nut and bolt.
Most dogs that are led by a collar display symptoms of tracheal injuries, including:
- Coughing
- Snoring
- Noisy breathing, especially when sleeping
Constant pressure from pulling on a collar can lead to hypothyroidism, a low immune system, and increased susceptibility to other diseases, including cancer. Other complications include:
- Whiplash
- Loss of consciousness
- Spinal cord damage
- Paralysis
- Tracheal collapse
- Asphyxiation
- Fractured larynx
- Dislocated neck vertebrae
- Esophagus bruising
- Prolapsed eyeballs
- Brain damage
- Skin and tissue damage of the neck
So, walking your Goldendoodle using a collar and leash is not recommended, especially if your pup tends to pull.
Why Use A Collar?
Unless you live in a very rural area, In most regions, your dog must wear a collar that has his ID and rabies vaccination tags attached. If your dog doesn’t conform to those laws, you could finish up with a sizeable fine.
If your Goldendoodle runs away or is involved in a traffic accident, his ID tags make it much easier to reunite him with you.
So, although you might not want to attach a leash to your dog’s collar, it’s very important that he wears one.
Goldendoodle Collar Safety Tips
Tags
The tags on your dog’s collar are every bit as important as the collar itself.
The information carried on the tags helps to reunite you with your pet if he gets lost, and the vaccination information tells your Doodle’s rescuers that it’s safe to handle the dog. If you move home or any of your contact information changes, be sure to get new up-to-date tags for your dog’s collar.
A Perfect Fit
Your dog’s collar is no use if it doesn’t fit him correctly! So, finding the right size collar for your pet is crucial.
You want to collar to be secure, but you also need to be confident that it’s as comfortable as possible for your pet.
Take a cloth measuring tape and measure the circumference of your dog’s neck. Add two more inches to that measurement. The figure you end up with is the size of the collar that your Goldendoodle needs.
There are a couple of exceptions to that rule:
- For very small Doodles, add an inch
- For extra-large Goldendoodles, add an additional three inches
The general rule is that you should be able to slide two fingers between collar and neck. For small dogs, you need to fit one finger under the collar, and for large dogs, that’s three fingers.
What About The Collar’s Width?
Once you’ve found the correct length of the collar, you need to consider the width, too.
Large Goldendoodles need a wide collar, as that reduces the pressure on the dog’s neck. Smaller pups will be more comfortable in a thinner collar.
Check The Fit Regularly
It’s important to check your dog’s collar regularly to make sure that it still fits properly, especially if you have a young dog that’s still growing. Puppies are best with an adjustable collar that’s at the smaller end of the measurement scale. That allows lots of scope for the puppy’s neck to grow without you having to buy a new collar.
Also, old collars can sometimes stretch or begin to suffer from wear and tear. So, be prepared to replace the collar when necessary, especially if you discover any rough edges. Ideally, you want a combination of polyester with a quality neoprene padding to protect your dog’s skin.
Remove the collar every day to check underneath it for signs of rubbing, dirt, and flea infestation.
Coat Texture
If you have a Goldendoodle with a straight golden coat type or if your dog is shaved, the fur underneath the collar will be prone to matting, especially if exposed to the rough edges of nylon collars.
That problem can be avoided if you choose a rolled leather collar rather than a flat one. Remember to brush your dog every day, paying particular attention to the area underneath his collar where hair matting can happen.
What Are The Different Types Of Collars?
There are lots of collars out there to choose from, and these are the most common types of collars:
Flat Collars
Flat collars are the most commonly seen and are very popular with Goldendoodle owners.
These durable collars can be made from leather or nylon webbing and are often have a layer of neoprene padding for extra comfort. Flat collars are usually adjustable and fit simply via a buckle or snap-clip.
Often you can choose from an attractive collar pattern and lots of bright, attractive collar colors, too. This is one of the most hassle-free collar designs you can buy. However, cheaper collars can develop jagged edges as they age.
Breakaway Collars
Breakaway collars have an integral safety feature in the collar buckle fastening that enables the dog to break free in an emergency. For example, if the dog’s collar snags on brambles, potentially preventing the dog from being strangled.
Some flexible collars also feature elasticated inserts.
Choke Collar
I don’t recommend using this type of collar on your Goldendoodle.
The choker collar is basically a length of metal chain or nylon rope with a ring fixed at each end. The collar forms a loop around the dog’s neck. You can attach a leash to the dead ring or to the live ring. When a leash is attached to the live ring, the collar tightens when the leash is pulled, loosening when it’s released.
Choke collars are designed to punish the dog and are often associated with causing distress and physical injury to the dog, so we don’t condone using these types of collars.
Martingale Collars
The martingale collar is often used for dogs that have a smaller head than their neck. So, a regular collar can slip over the dog’s head.
Generally, sighthounds, such as whippets and greyhounds, are usually seen in a martingale collar. However, a martingale collar can be useful for Doodles that like to slip their collar and escape.
Colors and Designs
You can certainly turn heads at the dog park by choosing from myriad designs, including a ladybird collar, hippie collar, or a full-fledged dog collar set! There are lots of cute girl collars, confident dog collars for boys, and a combo of collar and lead if you prefer.
If you choose carefully, you can use the same collar from puppyhood for your dog.
7 Best Collars For Goldendoodles
Now that you know what to look for in a good collar for your pet, here’s a list of the seven best high-quality dog collars for Goldendoodles that are currently on the market.
1. Link AKC Smart Dog Collar with GPS Tracker & Activity Monitor
Intuitive smart collar
Luxurious leather
Durable and long-lasting
Impressive features
Detective feature
Goldendoodles are an iconic breed that can have a pretty powerful prey drive. That means your dog might go AWOL sometimes during walks in the park or escape from your backyard, so a smart collar is an excellent choice for Houdini types.
This incredible quality collar houses a GPS and activity tracker so that you can monitor your dog’s whereabouts at all times by linking the app to your cell phone. The low-profile padded collar is soft and comfortable for your dog to wear but is hard-wearing and durable too. There’s an LED light, too, enabling you to keep an eye on your dog on dawn and dusk walks.
This isn’t the cheapest dog collar on the list and it’s not a cute dog collar, but we love the high-tech features incorporated into this traditional collar design.
PROS
- GPS and activity tracking features
- Incredible quality collar
- Intuitive smart design
CONS
- Has a few bugs that need fixing
- Expensive compared to standard low-tech collars
2. American Flag Dog Collar
Unique, USA flag pattern
Comfortable fit
Durable and long-lasting
When it comes to famous collars, this super-cool American Flag dog collar is absolutely beautiful and looks great on your Goldendoodle, especially on larger breeds. This traditional collar design is also very affordable, which is good to know if you want a high-quality collar, but you’re working to a budget.
The American flag collar is made from durable polyester fabric and webbing, so the collar is comfortable for your dog and made to last. The collar is adjustable, but I recommend that you check the size chart before you buy. There’s a quick buckle feature that’s simple to snap and unsnap as required, and the collar has a good, reliable D-ring for leash attachment if required.
PROS
- Smart, American Flag dog collar
- Heavy-duty zinc alloy D-ring
- Easy to fasten and release
CONS
- The material tends to slip, so you need to adjust the sizing often
3. Black Rhino Comfort Dog Collar
Neoprene padding for comfort
Suitable for all kinds of breed
Durable nylon webbing
This heavy-duty collar by Black Rhino is designed is the perfect combination of comfort and strength, so it’s a great training collar. The design incorporates super-soft neoprene padding to prevent chafing, hotspots, and matting.
The durable nylon webbing fabric is reflective, so you can be confident that your beloved Goldendoodle is highly visible on nighttime walks. Also, you don’t need to worry that the collar will develop that stinky, doggy whiff when wet, as the collar is waterproof.
The anti-chaffing collar is available in a wide variety of sizes and colors, is adjustable, and the durable nylon webbing is lightweight for your pet’s comfort.
PROS
- High-quality materials
- Comfortable and durable choice
- Adjustable features
CONS
- The buckle can be difficult to unfasten
4. Blueberry Pet Essentials Dog Collar
Excellent value, smart collar
Range of colors and sizes
Simple buckle fastening
If you’re working to a budget, this attractive low-cost collar could be the ideal choice for you. This family-owned company produces a collar is simple but very well-made to ensure longevity as well as comfort for your precious pup.
There are no fewer than 22 color choices to pick from, a variety of sizes, and the durable polyester webbing material is fully adjustable. The durable nylon collar material used is very sturdy, and it won’t stretch if it gets wet. Although the collar isn’t padded, it won’t rub or chafe, and there’s a metal ring attachment that will accommodate a leash if required.
Although this is the cheapest collar on our list, it’s also one of the most popular collar in terms of of sales and could be the perfect choice for you.
PROS
- Durable webbing
- Range of sizes and colors
- Easy, buckle fastening
- Combination of style and practicality
CONS
- Material frays and can unravel
- Collar sizing size chart not always accurate
5. Go Tags Personalized Dog Collar
Can be personalized
Vast range of colors and sizes
Simple snap buckle fastener
This inexpensive collar can be personalized with your Goldendoodle’s name and your phone number. That means you don’t need to worry if your dog’s tags will get lost; the collar still carries your contact information.
The collars are made from durable, abrasion-resistant polyester webbing and are suitable for giant breeds, as well as your hybrid breed Doodle.
The customized collars come in a nice choice of colors and 15 embroidery colors to choose from, so you can pick the perfect color combination and creative choice for your dog. Although these collars aren’t expensive, they are of decent quality and are durable and comfortable for your Doodle. Also, there’s no fiddly buckle to mess about with, as the cute collar has a simple snap fastening.
Finally, the fully adjustable collar has a metal ring for convenient leash adjustment. Why not choose a matching leash and collar combo? What a beautiful choice!
PROS
- Excellent value, budget collar
- Nice range of color options and embroidery shades
- Easy, snap buckle fastening
CONS
- Collar is quite narrow but is still robust
6. Petsafe Nylon Martingale Collar
Perfect for growing puppies
Range of colors and sizes
Excellent quality
This collar is a smart, practical nylon martingale collar that’s designed to give you greater control over dogs that pull and is a useful training collar. You can use the adjustable collar with a leash or simply use your hand to hold the collar and prevent your Goldendoodle from escaping.
The design has a soft lining that doesn’t cause bald spots, matting, or rubbing and loosens when the dog stops. The durable nylon collar is a custom fit that makes it ideal for growing puppies.
You can also buy genuine leather martingale collars, but these are more expensive. This harmless collar material is just as safe to use and you can wash it too.
PROS
- Excellent quality martingale collar
- Perfect for escape artists
- Durable and hardwearing
CONS
- Size chart sizes come up small
7. Collar Direct Rolled Leather Dog Collar
Super soft natural leather
Durable, comfortable, stylish
Excellent quality
Leather is one of the most comfortable materials for your pet, and you and your canine companion can step out in style in this gorgeous rolled leather adjustable heavy duty dog collar!
This high-quality, rolled leather collar is soft and comfortable for your pet, and the heavy-duty metal hardware is built to last so that you know your pet is always secure and safe. The collar has an internal cord to keep your pet comfy, and the rounded shape prevents your Goldendoodles curly coat from matting and tangling.
The leather is non-allergic, so this collar is the perfect choice for Goldendoodles with sensitive skin. There’s a choice of sizes and widths so that you can get the perfect fit for your dog.
PROS
- Excellent quality
- Soft leather, comfortable for your dog
- Durable and hardwearing
CONS
- Sizing can be slightly off
In Conclusion
I hope you enjoyed our guide to choosing the best collar for your Goldendoodle. If you found the article helpful, please remember to share it.
Of the collar options we’ve reviewed, our favorite is the Collar Direct Rolled Leather Collar. This luxurious, soft leather collar is comfortable for your Goldendoodle and won’t tangle or mat his fur. The leather used is non-allergic, making this collar perfect for dogs with sensitive skin.
The adjustable dog collar has heavy-duty metal hardware that won’t rust or weaken, so you know that your pet’s collar won’t fall off. Choose from a range of sizes and widths to find the exact fit for your pet.
What kind of collar do you have for your Goldendoodle? Tell us in the comments box below.
