At a glance
- Adult Bernese Mountain Dogs typically need collars sized for 20-30 inch necks, requiring "extra large" or "giant breed" options rather than standard "large" sizes
- Width matters significantly - choose collars at least 1.5 inches wide to distribute pressure evenly across their muscular necks and prevent injury
- Durable materials like quality leather, nylon, or biothane with metal hardware are essential to withstand their considerable strength
- Regular collar breaks help prevent matting of their thick double coat and reduce skin irritation around the neck area
Why standard "large" collars often don't work
You might notice that many collars labelled as "large" simply don't fit your Bernese Mountain Dog properly. This isn't surprising when you consider that these dogs typically have neck circumferences ranging from 20 to 30 inches, putting them well into "extra large" or "giant breed" territory. Many owners make the mistake of assuming their dog fits standard large sizing, only to find the collar is uncomfortably tight or lacks the strength needed for such a powerful breed.
The thick, double coat of these dogs also means you need to account for more bulk around the neck area. What might seem like the right measurement can become restrictive once you factor in their dense fur. Always measure with a soft tape measure placed where the collar will naturally sit, just below the ears and above the shoulders, allowing enough room to slip two fingers between the collar and neck.
Getting the measurements right
When measuring your dog's neck, timing and technique matter. Measure when your dog is calm and standing naturally, not when they're excited or have their head raised high. The collar should sit in that sweet spot where it won't slide up toward the ears or down toward the shoulders during normal movement.
For collar length, look for options that are 4-8 inches longer than your dog's actual neck measurement. If your Bernese Mountain Dog has a 22-inch neck, seek collars designed for 26-30 inches total length. This extra length provides room for adjustment and ensures you can achieve the proper fit even as your dog's weight fluctuates seasonally or with age.
Width becomes crucial for comfort and safety. Research shows that wider collars, particularly those measuring 1.5 inches or more, distribute pressure more evenly across the neck. This is especially important for Bernese Mountain Dogs, who can exert significant force when they spot something interesting on a walk or get excited about meeting another dog.
Materials that stand up to daily use
The gentle nature of Bernese Mountain Dogs can be deceiving when it comes to the forces they can generate. A startled or excited dog of this size can easily snap inferior collar materials or bend cheap hardware. Quality nylon, leather, or biothane materials offer the durability needed, while also being easy to clean after muddy adventures.
Metal hardware makes a significant difference in longevity and safety. Stainless steel or brass buckles and D-rings won't corrode from moisture trapped in their thick coat, and they won't fail under pressure like plastic alternatives might. Look for double-stitched seams rather than glued or single-stitched construction, which can separate over time.
Brands like Appenzeller Gurt have developed collars specifically with breeds like these in mind, offering widths of 3.5 to 4 centimetres and lengths from 51 to 75 centimetres. While these specialty collars typically cost between $75-120, many owners find the investment worthwhile for the durability and breed-specific sizing.
Comfort considerations for thick coats
The beautiful double coat that makes these dogs so striking also creates unique collar challenges. Narrow collars can dig into the fur, creating mats and tangles that are difficult to brush out. They can also cause hair breakage around the neck area, leaving unsightly thin patches.
Padded collars or those with smooth, soft linings help prevent these issues while reducing pressure points. Some owners find that rolled leather collars work particularly well, as the rounded surface moves more naturally with the coat and causes less matting than flat alternatives.
Regular collar-free time becomes important for coat health. Many dogs benefit from having their collar removed during indoor relaxation time, allowing the neck area to breathe and preventing continuous pressure on the same spot. This practice also gives you opportunities to check for any signs of irritation or embedded debris. For comprehensive coat care, consider following a proper grooming schedule to maintain their magnificent double coat.
Safety features worth considering
For dogs that spend time in fenced yards or have access to outdoor areas unsupervised, breakaway safety features deserve consideration. These mechanisms allow the collar to release under extreme pressure, potentially preventing strangulation hazards if the collar catches on something. However, these safety collars aren't suitable for leash walking, as they're designed to release under the kind of force a pulling dog might generate.
ID tag attachment points should be robust enough to handle the weight and movement of tags without bending or breaking. Some collars feature built-in tag pockets that eliminate jingling and reduce the risk of losing important identification information during active play or exploration.
Regular inspection becomes part of responsible ownership. Check weekly for signs of wear, fraying stitches, or bent hardware. Also watch for any skin irritation, hair loss, or persistent scratching around the collar area, which might indicate fit issues or material sensitivities.
Common fitting problems and solutions
Many owners struggle with collars that seem right initially but become problematic over time. Weight fluctuations, seasonal coat changes, and simple wear can alter how a collar fits and functions. A collar that worked perfectly in summer might become too tight when the winter coat comes in, or too loose after a active summer of hiking and swimming.
Matting under the collar area is another frequent issue. This often indicates the collar is too narrow, too tight, or made from materials that catch and pull at the coat. Sometimes the solution is as simple as switching to a wider collar or one with a smoother finish.
If you notice persistent skin irritation, hair loss, or if your dog seems uncomfortable wearing their collar, these signs warrant attention. Sometimes a simple adjustment fixes the problem, but ongoing issues might indicate a need for different materials or even a veterinary consultation to rule out skin sensitivities.
When to invest in quality
Budget collars in the $15-30 range might seem appealing, but they often prove false economy for powerful breeds. These collars frequently use thinner materials, plastic hardware, or construction methods that don't hold up to the forces these dogs can generate.
Mid-range options between $40-80 typically offer better materials and construction, with leather or quality biothane and metal hardware. For many owners, this price range provides the best balance of durability and value.
Premium collars from specialty manufacturers can cost $80-120 or more, but they're often designed specifically for large, powerful breeds. These investments make sense for dogs that are hard on equipment or for owners who prefer to buy once rather than replace collars regularly.
The right collar choice depends on your individual dog's needs, activity level, and your budget. A calm, gentle dog might do well with a quality mid-range option, while a more active or strong-pulling dog might benefit from the extra durability of a premium collar designed specifically for their breed's characteristics. For dogs that pull significantly during walks, you might also want to consider choosing a proper harness to reduce strain on the neck area.
