Last Updated: 07/05/2025
Best Dog Collars 2024 [Vet Reviewed]
Looking for the best dog collar for your pup? Look no further - check out our Vet-reviewed top recommendations.
Author: Dr Emilee Lay BVSc BSc (Vet) Hons
Reading Time: 62 minutes - extensive read
A dog collar is not only for identification, but walking, protection, training and even fashion. Don't forget that in most states of Australia your pooch needs to be wearing a tag with your details when they are outside your property. Failure to do so can risk fines of up to $880 or $5500 for dangerous or restricted breeds. Check out our guide below for the best collars for your dog - no matter the situation! Â
Why is choosing the right Dog Collar important?
Four reasons why it's important to choose the right collar are:
- In most states it is a legal requirement to have your dog appropriately restrained when in public settings and with proper identification - a dog collar is the perfect way to do that
- It is a great way to help manage pulling and as part of trainingÂ
- A collar is a fabulous fashion statement - dress your pooch up and inject a bit of personality to their everyday gear whilst out and aboutÂ
- A collar is an essential item to have when taking your dog walkingÂ
Results:
- Best for Puppies: SCREAM Reflective Adjustable Puppy Collars & Fuzzyard Dog Collar
- Best for Small Breed Dogs: Gummi Slick Dog Collar Red & Pawfect Pals Don't Quit Your Day Dream
- Best for Large Breed Dogs: Kazoo Collar Active AdjustableÂ
- Best for Hounds: Blackdog Whippet Collar & Rogz Collar Padded
- Best for A Fashion Statement: Pawfect Pals Sunshine on My MindÂ
- Best for Active Dogs:Â Scream Reflective Adjustable Collar
- Best for Training: ROGZ Obedience Collars & Halti Training Head Collar
How We Review Our Products
Our Pet Circle Vet Squad comprises 30 vets with over 120 years of collective, independent veterinary expertise. Our Vet team use their health and husbandry knowledge, along with their own personal and clinical experiences to evaluate each product and provide detailed, informative reviews, free of any commercial bias. We then collate this information into our 'best of' recommendations.
Top Dog Collars in Australia
Cons
- Only two bag sizes available
- Packaging isn't re-sealable
- Small D ring - may not be suitable for vigorous walkers
It's time to live your life loud and proud, thanks to these bright neon, reflective collars from SCREAM. These thin, adjustable collars are perfect for growing puppies. The lightweight fabric allows for your pup to slowly get used to having a collar on, whilst the reflective surface on the collar means your puppy can be seen night or day. It comes in four great colours, suitable for any gender or breed of dog.Â
The SCREAM puppy range also comes with matching harnesses and leads - check them out here.Â
What our vets say: "It's great to see a collar than can grow with your puppy. Often puppies find collars to be a bit unsettling when they first put it on. This lightweight collar, is a great starter collar for any new puppy owner " - Dr. Antonella
Pros
- Fully adjustable collars available in small, medium and large
- Made from neoprene and nylon webbing, making it lightweight and breathable
- Handwashable and designed in AustraliaÂ
- Lockable buckle
- Available in a variety of colours and prints
Cons
- May not be suitable for teacup to tiny sized dogs with neck diameters <25cm
- Plastic buckles not as durable long term compared to metal designs
Fuzzyard are ahead of the market when it comes to fashion forward, and most of all functional collars. Some other fabulous patterns and colours from this style include: Scramble, Javan, and Peace Out. The stainless steel ring attachments gives you peace of mind that your dog's ID tag will stay put and that any leashes are firmly attached to the collar. The variety of sizes and and accomodating widths really reflect their thorough design process - best for you and best for your pooches. The lockable buckle is also an innovative feature that ensures the collar won't accidentally snap off.Â
What our customers say: "I needed a collar for my 6MO Rhodesian Ridgeback to grow into. The large size fits him well with plenty of room to grow. Quality is quite good considering the price. Being able to lock the buckle is a good feature although I probably won't use it"
Cons
- Plastic Buckles not as durable as stainless steels ones long termÂ
- Smaller dogs with a neck circumference of 18-25cm will need to purchase the Puppy sizingÂ
- Matching leads have to be purchased separately
- Gummi have taken traditional dog collars, and made them that much more durable, and lightweight thanks to their innovative use of durable silicone. The soft feel and comfortable design makes it perfect for any small breed dog. Rest assured this collar can be left on all day, everyday and your pooch won't notice a thing. Stylish in design but functional in nature is their motto, and the variety of colours and phrases make them extra unique.Â
What our vets say: "This is the perfect accessory that combines a simple but bright design as well as the durability and softness of silicone. The extra small sizing available for tiny dogs is a bonus" - Dr. Nicole
Pros
- Made cruelty free vegan leather with luxurious gold hardwareÂ
- Vibrant, fun print collar with cute added charm
- Available in multiple sizes - making it suitable for dogs of all breedsÂ
- Australian based company
Cons
- Belt loop adjustment not as flexible as regular buckle strap collars
- Matching leads to be purchased separatelyÂ
- Faux leather not as durable as real leather long termÂ
Pawfect Pals is simply perfect - from their design process, high end hardware and quality products - theres nothing to fault when it comes to their great, fun and functional designs. Support a local company whilst also injecting a bit of fun and personality into your dog's every day wear.
The accompanying matching accessories (such as this adorable Bow Tie) and leads make this company at the forefront of Australian based dog accessories. High end hardware are not only for showing off that bling, but to ensure strong lead attachments and durability in the long term.Â
This collar is super cute and is perfect for that boy or girl pooch in your life. The extra small sizing is great for tiny to small breed dogs.Â
What our customers say: "The collar has a nice soft feel and seems much more comfortable than the collar my dog had previously. It's so pretty, she already has the matching lead & harness."
Pros
- High quality nylon webbing, nickel plated metal and premium hardwareÂ
- Super soft neoprene lining for night walks
- Reflective stitching - perfect for early and night walks
- Available in a range of colours and sizesÂ
- Matching leads also availableÂ
Cons
- Not suitable for super small breed dogs (minimum length is 20cm)
- Not suitable for giant breed dogs (maximum length is 73cm)Â
One of our highest rated collars here at Pet Circle, is up there for a reason. The quality hardware and furnishings as well as fun, funky colours means there's a perfect match for every pooch out there. The TRI POINT DURA LOCK provides additional security for your leads to attach to. Not to mention the reflective stitching ensures your dog stays visible day or night.Â
Kazoo is renowned for manufacturing collars, leads, harnesses and tethering products with only the finest materials. In addition to their keen design eye, they also have ensured there are matching accessories as well.Â
What our customers say: "I love this collar has two leash loops to ensure my dog doesn't lose his collar, whilst also having a clip in case he gets caught whilst off leash. Durable, hard wearing and quality construction that doesn't irritate my dog - I'll repurchase in future "
Cons
- Not suitable for smaller or larger hounds
- Not chew proofÂ
Hounds have unique anatomy - which means they need unique collars! Their long necks and even narrower heads, mean that traditional collars are a no-go. These hound specific collars are perfect for the whippet in your life. With a wipe tapered neck pad, and double tightening action it is slip proof. The Martingale correction loop is also handy!~
BlackDog have gone the extra mile working closely with Whippet breeders to produce an elegant, practical collar specifically for Whippets! Rest assured you are getting the creme de la creme of hound collars! In addition BlackDog collars are Australian made and owned - a bonus for locally made pet goods.Â
What our customers say: "Tried & true, Blackdog make the best quality martingale collars for sight hounds. Recently bought this one for my whippet pup after years of using one with our greyhound. They're indestructible too, so I can't work out how the other reviewer managed to have theirs destroyed by a pup. "
Pros
- Specially designed for all hounds such as Greyhounds and Whippets
- Solid D ring attachment, with lockable buckle for additional securityÂ
- Quick drying material that is soft, comfortable and breathableÂ
- Minimises pressure on the neck and has reflective stitching for better visibility at nightÂ
Cons
- Not suitable for smaller hounds like Italian greyhoundsÂ
The ultimate collar for greyhounds and whippets alike - this Rogz collar is not only soft and durable but stylish and perfectly designed for most hounds! The non shift pad ensures that there is minimal pressure on the neck, whilst the solid D ring and lockable buckle provides additional peace of mind that your pooch is nice and secure. These collars come in a range of colours so that your hound stands out from the crowd. However hounds aren't the only ones to benefit - strong pullers and dogs not comfortable in a harness may also find this to be the perfect fit.Â
Rogz are all about design and producing the best quality and most functional pet gear, all whilst being sustainable and safe for your and your pet. Put your pet's safety in their hands so you can focus on the fun!Â
What our customers say: "Padding and thickness is great! Collar can also lock."
Pros
- Vibrant, fun print collar, with matching lead, bowtie, harness and bandana
- Made with cruelty free vegan leather and luxurious gold accentsÂ
- Australian owned company
Cons
- Not suitable for dogs with <15cm or >63cm neck measurements
- Not suitable for dogs who pull
Pawfect Pals have done it again with this gorgeous collar! The sunflower print is not only fun and vibrant, but with matching accessories to boot, how could you say no? Nothing screams model runway then matching accessories! The gorgeous gold hardware and charm are an added bonus. The vegan leather means your dog not only gets a durable collar but a cruelty-free one.Â
Pawfect Pals is simply perfect - from their design process, high end hardware and quality products - theres nothing to fault when it comes to their great, fun and functional designs. Support a local company whilst also injecting a bit of fun and personality into your dog's every day wear.
What our customers say: "Absolutely gorgeous! Pawfect quality too ?? Happily purchased the xxl as well with matching lead Thanks Pet Circle"
What our vets say: "I bought the bowtie and collar for my Chow Chow and she looked absolutely gorgeous! It was super cute even under all that fur" - Dr. EmileeÂ
Pros
- Highly reflective accents, ideal for walking your dog in low-light conditionsÂ
- Easily adjustable, suitable for small to large sized breeds
- High quality air mesh material for comfort, control and durabilityÂ
- Available in 4 great colours, perfect for any pooch
Cons
- Not suitable for dogs with a neck measurement of <28cm and >76cm
It's time to live your life loud and proud, thanks to these bright neon, reflective collars from SCREAM. These durable, high quality, air mesh, adjustable collars are perfect for a pooch on the run. The breathable fabric, tri glide set up and black metal hardware with reflective piping means your dog can be seen night or day. It comes in four great colours, making it suitable for any gender or breed of dog.Â
So what are you waiting for? Adventure awaits with this collar around your dog's neck!Â
What our customers say: "I was pleasantly surprised at the quality of the collar when my order arrived. Its well made and softer than what I was expecting. The edges aren'tharsh which is great as my dog has thin fur and chafes easily (She's a Jack Russell) The orange is nice and bright so I can catch glimpses of her when she wanders a little further into the bush and gets lost in the ferns/shrubs."
Pros
- Highly durable, long lasting stainless steel chains and d rings
- Easy, functional non slip designÂ
- Perfect for obedience trainingÂ
- Reflective stitching to aid in visibility and available in a range of coloursÂ
Cons
- Not suitable for small breed dogs (minimum neck size is 31cm)Â
- Not to be left on dogs unattended - always under supervisionÂ
Rogz are all about design and producing the best quality and most functional pet gear, all whilst being sustainable and safe for your and your pet. Put your pet's safety in their hands so you can focus on the fun!Â
This Obedience Collar is perfect for behaviour correction and training - when used appropriately. Gentle pressure and the safe non-slip design utilises the sound and vibration from the stanless steel chain to help with obedience and lead training. The reflective stitching ensures your dog is visible day or night, with an additional D RING to attach your ID tags.Â
What our customers say: "Best purchase we made for training our staffy, it's really helped us to teach him to walk on a loose leash"
Pros
- Strong, lightweight nylon webbing
- Designed to help reduce pulling without interfering with panting, eating or drinking
- Comfortable and secure with a padded noseband
- Reflective waterproof webbing (making it great for any weather)
- Strong safety link that attached to collar for extra securityÂ
- Comes in six sizes and two colours (red and black)
Cons
- Not suitable for tiny breed dogs (minimum neck size is 29cm)Â
- Nose circumference is needed for a perfect fit
- Need to acclimatise your dog to wearing a headcollar
- Not to be left on dogs unattended - always under supervisionÂ
The Company of Animals is all about developing functional products that work to resolve behaviour and training problems. Being one of the world's first no pull dog head collar, this is a brand that leads the market in innovative designs that fulfill a purpose whilst also being comfortable for the dog.Â
This No-Pull Collar is not a traditional collar, as it is designed to prevent pulling by gently steering and guiding your dog's direction and can be used in conjunction with your dog's normal collar for additional security. This is the perfect tool to curb pulling enthusiasm whilst out on a walk - and that's what makes it one of our top training "collars". So if your dog is putting a dampener on walks by pulling left, right and centre -Â make walks comfortable and fun again with this handy tool.Â
What our customers say: "Best purchase we made for training our staffy, it's really helped us to teach him to walk on a loose leash"
What our vets say: "The Halti Training Head Collar is my favourite training tool! It's a perfect option for dogs that pull, are anxious, large breeds with a little bit of extra strength or that independent pup that wants to go their own way. I was recommended a head collar for my own anxious and reactive pup and it gave me the level of control I needed to start training with him. It can take some training for them to get used to wearing it, but it's well worth it for how much easier it is to go for a walk. It's sturdy and durable, with an easy to fit design. It has lasted me 3 years and is still as good as the day I bought it. I recommend it to pet parents all the time for my patients and I would 100% buy this again for my next dog!" - Dr. Brittany
What to look for in Dog Collars
When choosing your dog collar, its essential to measure your dogs neck, understand the type of activity your dog may be undertaking, how it looks and how durable it may be. There are a range of options when it comes to collars, perfect for every need and fit.Â
Sizing
When choosing your dog collar, its essential to know your dog's neck size. Measure around the base of their neck, remembering that the actual collar should fit firmly but not tightly - leaving at least 2 fingers to be able to comfortable slip under. Buckle style collars are often more flexible when it comes to sizing compared to belt and loop ones.Â
Fit for Purpose
Think about your dog's activity levels - do they go for frequent and long walks? Do they like to pull a lot? Dog's that are quite strong or like to pull may benefit from a wider collar or an obedience collar. Greyhound and hounds with their slim necks and slim heads require a breed specific style of collar in order to not slip off.Â
Design
Dog collars are an important part of your pet's overall look - and is not only essential for ID purposes but a great way to showcase their personality and dress them up. Fashionable collars can also be functional and vice versa. Reflective piping is also handy in the design as it allows your dog to be seen day or night.Â
Durability
Some dog's make their way through the world like its tough mudder! Picking a collar that can endure any kind of rough wear and tear is a must. On the other hand, pesky cheeky chewers may also find their collars or those of their companions to be a delicious option. Check the type of material and hardware (stainless steel vs leather vs plastic) when picking your collar to ensure you have a collar that can withstand the test of time.Â
Further Reading
Want to know more? Check out our Discover Page for more tips from our expert vets on keeping your pets happy and healthy
