The Best Puppy Collar: Reviewed and Ranked

Written by Hannah Ward
Updated: December 23, 2022
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Getting a new puppy is incredibly exciting, but you’ll quickly learn that there are a lot of things that you need to buy for your new furry friend. One of the most important items you’ll want to get is a puppy collar. Collars are essential to keeping your pet safe on a leash, and it is never too early to start leash training. Since they need to get accustomed to wearing it, get your puppy a collar by the time you bring them home.

You’ll realize when you’re shopping around that there are an overwhelmingly large amount of choices available. You will need to find a comfortable fit with some room to grow. Perhaps you want to train them not to jump on folks immediately. We took the work out of it for you and found the best puppy collars for your to choose from. 

Whether you’re looking for a collar to help with training, barking, or even fleas, we’ve found something for you. It’s important to keep in mind things like the size of your puppy’s growing body and the material the collar is made out of. Below you’ll find everything you need to know about picking the perfect collar for a man’s or woman’s best friend. 

  1. CollarDirect Nylon Reflective Martingale Dog Collar
    • Made out of durable nylon
    • Bright and reflective material
    • Features a carbon plated D-ring
    • Matching leashes are conveniently available
    Check Chewy
  2. Dog Training Collar with Remote
    • Remote-controlled
    • The collar vibrates and beeps instead of shocks
    • Designed for dogs of all sizes and ages
    • Weather-resistant
    Check Amazon
  3. Hartz Flea & Tick Collar for Dogs & Puppies
    • The patented collar is soft and flexible to the touch for the ultimate in comfort
    • Features two buckles for strong hold, yet it's easy to apply and remove
    • Active ingredients are released and protect your pet for up to 6 months
    • Convenient 2-pack provides a full year of protection
    • Active ingredients: Deltamethrin and (S)-Methoprene
    Check Amazon

A-Z-Animals Top Picks for Puppy Collars

#1 Best Overall: CollarDirect Nylon Reflective Martingale Dog Collar

Out of all of the puppy collars on the market, we chose the CollarDirect Nylon Reflective Martingale Dog Collar as the overall best of the best.

Not only is this dog collar affordable, but it’s also made out of durable nylon with a heavy-duty martingale chain. There are a variety of different color options available and it can fit necks that are up to 13 inches in size.

The bright and reflective material makes it easy for you to spot your pup, even during nighttime potty breaks. There is a carbon plated D-ring for if you’re wanting to put on a name tag or leash. The comfortable plastic buckles won’t bother your puppy or the environment since they’re designed with eco-friendly plastic! The company also has matching leashes conveniently available. 

Unfortunately, some pup parents reported that the chain stained the fur of white or other light-colored dogs.

Pros and Cons of the CollarDirect Nylon Reflective Martingale Dog Collar

ProsCons
This collar is made from durable nylon material with a heavy-duty martingale chain.The chain can sometimes stain the fur of white or light-colored dogs.
It is suitable for dogs with a neck size of up to 13 inches.
It features reflective material to improve visibility during night time.
This collar has a carbon-plated D-ring for attaching a leash or name tag..
Overall Best
CollarDirect Nylon Reflective Martingale Dog Collar
  • Made out of durable nylon
  • Bright and reflective material
  • Features a carbon plated D-ring
  • Matching leashes are conveniently available
Check Chewy

2. Best Training Collar: Dog Training Collar with Remote

We all know how important training your new puppy is and a special collar design for training can help greatly. That’s why we recommend the Dog Training Collar with Remote to help your puppy learn common phrases and actions with ease.

You won’t have to worry about hurting your new dog as this collar vibrates and beeps instead of shocks. There are 10 levels of continuous or short-term beeping and vibrations. This collar is great because it’s designed for dogs of all sizes and ages. It comes complete with a remote and has a super long 3/4 mile range which makes it suitable for outdoor training sessions.

It’s weather-resistant, making it easy to train your dog even in the rain. It has a high-capacity rechargeable battery that quickly charges and has long battery life. There’s even a night light mode feature that is perfect for training during the evening hours. 

However, some customers have reported that the on/off button requires a long, firm press, which in turn means it is quite easy to switch it to bark mode if your finger slips.

Pros and Cons of the Dog Training Collar with Remote

ProsCons
This collar uses a unique combination of vibrations and beeps.The on/off button needs to be pressed firmly.
There are ten different settings to choose from.It is easy to accidentally switch it to bark mode when turning it on or off.
It has a 3/4 mile range which is suitable for outdoor training sessions.
It has a high-capacity rechargeable battery.
Best Training Collar
Dog Training Collar with Remote
  • Remote-controlled
  • The collar vibrates and beeps instead of shocks
  • Designed for dogs of all sizes and ages
  • Weather-resistant
Check Amazon

3. Best Flea Collar: Hartz Flea & Tick Collar for Dogs and Puppies

Selecting a flea collar, especially for a puppy, can feel a bit daunting. After all, you want something that’s safe, comfortable, and effective. That’s why we recommend the Hartz Flea & Tick Collar for Dogs & Puppies.

The two active ingredients used in this collar, deltamethrin and methoprene, have been proven to be safe and effective. The collar releases the ingredients slowly over the course of six months, and they come in a two-pack so your dog will be covered for a full year. Plus, the collar’s patented design is soft and flexible so it’s comfortable for your puppy. It features a dual-buckle system for a secure hold, but it’s easy to release if necessary.

However, some customers have reported that this collar does not provide the full six months of protection that it advertises.

Pros and Cons of the Hartz Flea & Tick Collar for Dogs and Puppies

ProsCons
This collar uses two active ingredients which have been proven to be safe for dogs.It does not always work for the full six months.
The ingredients are releases slowly over size months to provide long-lasting flea protection.
There are two collars in each pack to provide a full year of protection.
This collar features a dual buckle system that is secure but easy to release when needed.
Best Flea & Tick for Dogs & Puppies
Hartz Flea & Tick Collar for Dogs & Puppies
  • The patented collar is soft and flexible to the touch for the ultimate in comfort
  • Features two buckles for strong hold, yet it's easy to apply and remove
  • Active ingredients are released and protect your pet for up to 6 months
  • Convenient 2-pack provides a full year of protection
  • Active ingredients: Deltamethrin and (S)-Methoprene
Check Amazon

Choosing the Best: What to Look For

When you’re shopping for a new collar for your puppy, how do you know which one product is better than another? While the best options for puppy collars are listed above, here is what you should look for to ensure you get a high-quality product that works for your fuzzy friend. 

Price

Believe it or not, puppy collars can get expensive quickly. While there are some on the market for under $10, there are others that are well over $100. The price is going to reflect what you want in the collar. If you’re looking for something with more features, such as training vibrations, you can expect to pay more. 

Durability

There’s no denying that adorable puppies love playing outside. They like biting and grabbing at just about anything they can get their teeth on. Having a collar that is durable is essential. Even though they won’t be able to grab at it when it’s on, you never know what your puppy will get into! 

Size

Just like human babies, puppies grow quickly! Get a collar that is adjustable and can last throughout their entire life! Most collars are adjustable, even if they’re designed for special training or barking needs. If your puppy grows past the adjustable sizing, you may need a new collar in six months.

Features

Some dog owners are looking for specific features. As you read above, there are specific types of collars out there for dogs of all ages. These can branch into further features. For example, if you’re looking for a training collar, you’ll find options such as martingale or no pull collars. 

The Different Types of Collars: Pros and Cons Compared

Standard Collar

ProsCons
They are usually inexpensive.They can be low-quality.
There are a lot of size and color options.
They are made in a variety of materials.

Flea Collars 

ProsCons
They are easy to apply.Some companies use toxic ingredients.
They can be used for an extended length of time.They can take several weeks to work.

Training and Bark Collars

ProsCons
They have an instant reaction.Some types hurt animals.
They can correct behavior.They are often more expensive.
They often come in a variety of styles.

Our Criteria: How We Chose the Best

When it comes to finding a puppy collar that works for your dog, it’s a great idea to look at the experience of people who have already used the product. In our experience, we found that many people opted for more affordable collars. 

Our #1 choice is a perfect starter collar. The best thing about this collar is that it is not only quality-made and durable, but also very reasonably priced. Plus, the bright colors and reflective stitching make it easy to see at night.

We included on our puppy collar list training collars because we know most owners will start teaching their pups at an early age. Our #2 choice uses vibration to help train your pup. They help with minimizing unwanted behaviors such as excessive barking, running out of the door, and jumping on guests.

Most pups will need protection from fleas, so we also included a flea collar that is safe for puppies. If you aren’t already using a flea preventative measure, a flea collar is a must in our opinion.

When it comes to your puppy, you don’t necessarily see something flashy. Collars that train your dog may be optional if you’re finding training elsewhere. People love the reassurance that flea collars bring, especially for those that have dogs that enjoy the outdoors. 

Up Next

  • The Best Double Dog Leashes — Two is better than one, right? Not always while talking a walk with your dogs. Make walking your two pups easier with a double dog leash! No more tangled tug-of-war!
  • The Best Leather Dog Collars — Leather is both stylish and durable, so why not check out our recommendations for the best leather dog collars here.
  • Reviewed: The Best Dog Harnesses — If you fancy a harness for your new pup then take a look at these top-rated harnesses.

About the Author

Hannah is a writer at A-Z animals where her primary focus is on reptiles, marine life, mammals, and geography. Hannah has been writing and researching animals for four years alongside running her family farm. A resident of the UK, Hannah loves riding horses and creating short stories.

The Best Puppy Collar: Reviewed and Ranked FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

What size collar should I get my dog?

  1. If your dog is under 10 pounds, get a collar that is 12 inches or smaller. For dogs that are 11 to 25 pounds, use a collar that is between 11 and 15 inches. Dogs that are 26 to 55 pounds should have a collar length of 13’’ to 18’’. Any dog bigger than 56 pounds will need a collar between 16 and 24 inches long.

Do puppies need a harness?

When you’re taking your dog on a walk, using a harness in combination with a collar is a great choice! It’s just an extra step to keep your dog safe when you’re out and about with your pup.

At what age can puppies start wearing collars?

You should wait until your new furry friend is around 10 weeks old. This allows them to get settled into life and explore your home without the restraint of a collar.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.