The German Shepherd is renowned for his loyalty, confidence, and intelligence. He is easy to spot with his distinctive athletic, muscular build, and an aura of alertness and grace. We all know that every dog should wear a collar for the purposes of attaching his leash, ID and rabies vaccination tags, and city/county license.
However, with the many types of dog collar, it can be hard to decide which one is best. If you own a German Shepherd, look no further than this article for an overview of the five best Collars for German Shepherd.
A Quick Look at the Best German Shepherd Collars
| Rank | Photo | Brand | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. |  | Max and Neo | |
| 2. |  | Blueberry Pet | |
| 3. |  | EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER | |
| 4. |  | OneTigris | |
| 5. |  | Mighty Paw |
5 Best Collars For German Shepherd Reviewed
1. Max and Neo Stainless Steel Collar
Martingale collars – also known as ‘limited-slip’ or ‘cinch’ collars – differ from regular flat collars in that they are specially designed for either dog where the head is of similar or smaller size than the neck, or for dogs who may slip easily out of a regular collar. In addition, they can be great training aids, as the slight corrections given with a Martingale collar can be more persuasive than with a regular collar.
This type of collar consists of a length of fabric with a metal D-ring at each end. Martingale collars have a separate loop of material or chain then runs through the D-rings. The leash then attaches to a ring on the loop. If your dog pulls, the collar will tighten to just the diameter of your dog’s neck but without choking, as long as it has been fitted correctly. In addition, as your dog grows, you will need to change up to a larger collar as needed as with all collars.
Nylon material with reflective stitching – Max and Neo’s Martingale collar is made of 2mm thick nylon which is 1” wide (¾” in small size and ½” in X-Small size), and has 2mm wide bands of reflective stitching along each edge. The stitching gives better visibility for walks in low-light conditions or at night, in particular offering more safety when compared to collars with less stitching.
Stainless steel chain and O-ring – The chain and O-ring are made of stainless steel and are therefore rust-resistant.
Sturdy nylon snap buckle – The nylon buckle has a snap mechanism with a lockable tab to prevent accidental release. Dog tags and charms can also be attached to the metal adjustment slider.
The range of options – Max and Neo offer a range of sizes from X-Small (10”-12”) to Large (19”-24.5”) and they give clear advice on how to measure your dog’s neck to ensure you order the right size collar. The fabric also comes in a choice of seven colors.
Your purchase helps a dog rescue – Max and Neo donate an identical collar to a U.S. dog rescue for every one sold.
Advantage- This is a great design for dogs for training purposes, or for those who may escape a regular collar
- It is made of quality materials and construction.
- There is extra peace of mind with the snap buckle
- There is plenty of reflective stitching for safer night walks
- Many owners view the Martingale collar as much more humane than choke and prong collars while still providing good dog control
Disadvantage- You will need to measure your dog’s neck correctly to ensure you receive the right size; many measures incorrectly and this leads to a collar too big
- It is usually advisable that dogs are not left unattended whilst still wearing Martingale collars in case they get snagged on something, causing the collar to tighten.
Summary: Max and Neo’s Martingale collar is well-designed and made of quality materials. This may be an excellent option for many German Shepherd owners. Knowing your purchase helps a dog in need could also bring a smile to your day.
2. Blueberry Pet Regular Collar
The most common type of collar is the flat (or rolled) collar and is the standard collar for dogs. It is usually made of nylon webbing or leather, with a buckle or plastic snap (also known as a ‘quick-release’). A ring is affixed for you to attach your dog’s ID and other tags, and leash.
As flat collars come in different sizes, it is important to choose one that is appropriate for your dog. It should be neither too tight that it chokes the dog, nor too loose allowing the dog to slip out of the collar. Ideally, the collar should sit comfortably around your dog’s neck and there should be just enough room for you to slip two fingers beneath the collar without it being too tight. And as with the Martingale collar, the size will need to be increased as your dog grows through puppy through to adulthood.
Durable materials – The polyester/nylon collar is made in high density webbing for durability. Chrome coating on the metal D-ring also increases durability. The buckle is stated as heavy-duty and is even made from eco-friendly plastic.
Look smarter than other dogs – Blueberry Pet also sells a range of personalized collars. They also happen sell matching leashes and harnesses if you like the idea of having your German Shepherd color-coordinated!
Customize your dog’s collar – Your dog’s name and phone number can be embroidered with a choice of 11 font colors, on a background color of which there are 32 choices at the time of writing. The visual impact of the collar may help your dog to be reunited with you should he run away or get lost.
The range of options – There is a range of sizes on the regular collars, X-Small (7.5”-10”) to Large (18”-26”); the customized collars range from Small (12”-16”) to Large (18”-26”). Blueberry Pet also provides a size chart so you can use your dog’s weight as a guide to choosing the right collar.
Customer service – Blueberry Pet encourages you to contact them for queries on customization. The embroidered personalized lettering is done in the USA.
Advantage- This collar is made of sturdy materials. Blueberry Pet state the collar does not stretch, which means less need for adjustment
- There is a huge range of colors to choose from
- It is great to be able to customize this collar
- The customer service sounds friendly
- It is good to know that eco-friendly materials have gone into the collar
Disadvantage- There is a risk that your dog’s name or phone number will be partially obscured by the clasp, so check with the company for details
- As with Martingale collars, dogs should not be left unattended whilst still wearing a flat collar due to the risk of snagging/getting caught
Summary: Blueberry Pet has a range of fashionable options with an eco-friendly feel. The ability to customize your dog’s collar can be very useful as well as looking cute. Their customer service sounds friendly and approachable.
3. EXCELLENT ELITE SPANKER Dog Collar
What makes dog gear tactical? Definitions vary but you could summarize it as high quality vests, harnesses, and collars which are made from thick, durable waterproof materials that may be reinforced and have additional accessories. Despite the sturdiness of construction, the gear needs to be breathable and comfortable for the dog.
More specifically, tactical dog collars often provide a handle to give the owner more control whilst holding their dog, and Velcro patches for attachment of ID etc. They can be used by anyone for military, hunting, training or recreational purposes.
Durable Material – The collar is made of high quality, durable nylon with neat stitching. The collar is said to not stretch, which can be a problem with some collars. It is available in three sizes and four colors with a size chart provided and is easily washable e.g. mud and water.
Adjustability – Use the slip/lock adjust mechanism to change the length of the collar.
Comfortable – There is padded lining to reduce chafing and to help with a more comfortable fit.
Magic sticker and closure – The magic sticker is the name given to the Velcro panel. Upon closure of this section, the buckle can then be locked, giving a double layer of security. You can then place your favorite patch on the magic sticker ID panel.
D-ring – There is a D-ring for attachment of your dog’s leash and ID and other tags.
Control handle – The handle helps you hold your dog with more control, which can be useful in many situations. For instance, the handle can be useful for walking your dog in crowded public areas, during training sessions, or bringing your dog closer for attaching his leash.
Large and medium dogs – This collar is aimed at large and medium-sized dogs including German Shepherds. The sizes range from Medium (13.3”-17.3″) to X-Large (20-24″).
Advantage- This collar is made of strong, durable materials. The manufacturer states the collar does not stretch, which means less need for adjustment.
- The magic sticker is provided for attachment of your own personalized patch
- The handle gives you more control of your dog
- This padded and lined collar may be more comfortable for your dog
- Many owners view the Martingale collar as much more humane than choke and prong collars while still providing good dog control
Disadvantage- The manufacturer does not state the exact material used for the metal D-ring, so corrosion and durability may be a potential issue
- Again looking at quality, many customer reviews were very positive, but there were a fair number of customers experiencing buckle breakage
Summary: This collar has many redeeming qualities durable and comfortable materials with a Velcro panel and control handle. This may be a highly appropriate purchase to many German Shepherd owners.
4. OneTigris Military Adjustable Dog Collar
This smart, military style durable flat collar is adjustable and comfortable for your dog. It has a patch panel for you to add your own name patch or morale patch, and a D-ring for attaching your dog’s ID and other tags and leash.
Military Style – The hook and loop (Velcro) panel allow you to customize your dog’s collar with a patch for added flair.
Durability and comfort – Made of thick nylon, this non-stretch collar is also a cushion pad for your dog’s comfort and reduces the risk of skin irritation. The 1.49” wide collar also avoids dog choking, something that is sometimes an issue with thinner collars. The D-ring and buckle are stated to be made of a heavy duty metal.
Adjustable points – There are five adjustable points for the double pronged buckle, adding extra sturdiness to the design.
Size and color options – The collar comes in Medium (14.6”-17.7″) and Large (17.7”-20.9″) sizes. The five color options are black, coyote brown, gray, Ranger Green and OD green. If you are looking to buy a gray collar, you could also opt to buy OneTigris’ matching gray bungee leash.
Advantage- This is a collar with swag
- The collar has a Velcro area for attaching your personal patch
- OneTigris have produced a collar that is both durable and comfortable. The manufacturer states the collar does not stretch, which means less need for adjustment
- The collar is made with a double-pronged buckle for extra strength
- There are five points giving good adjustability options
Disadvantage- There is no quick release mechanism to remove the collar in an emergency
- OneTigris does not state the exact material used for the metal D-ring, so corrosion and durability may be a potential issue. However, it appears strong and durable
- There is no control handle as there are on other military style collars
Summary: This collar is not only durable and comfortable for your German Shepherd but looks the part too.
5. Mighty Paw Martingale Training Collar
Mighty Paw has been run as a family-owned and operated business since 2015 out of Rochester, New York. Their Martingale-Style Limited Cinch Collar is made of nylon and iron, and they market it as a durable collar which can be used as a training aid and a regular (non-cinch) collar by the optional addition of a single D-ring.
Nylon material with reflective stitching – The collar is made from premium quality nylon and has reflective stitching along its entire length. That means it is good for both durability and nighttime walks.
Iron chain – Mighty Paw states the chain is made of 100% iron. This might not be technically completely correct as 100% iron is usually softer than iron alloys. In any case, the chain appears aesthetically pleasing and looks strong.
Additional single D-ring attachment option – Mighty Paw’s Limited Cinch Collar also doubles up as a standard collar by use of a clever optional D-ring attachment.
Size and color options – The collar is 0.75” wide for small collars, and 1” wide for large collars. The small collar size ranges from 11”-13.5” and goes up to the large size which is 17”-22”. A sizing table is provided. Collars are available in black or gray.
Guarantee – Mighty Paws offers a 90 day 100% Customer Satisfaction Guarantee (limited to consequential and incidental damages).
Advantage- This collar is a great design for dogs for training purposes, or for those who may escape a regular collar. The reflective stitching for night walks is a good safety option
- The collar is made of quality materials
- The customer satisfaction guarantee is reassuring
- Many owners view the Martingale collar as much more humane than choke and prong collars while still providing good dog control
Disadvantage- You will need to measure your dog’s neck correctly to ensure you receive the right size; many measures incorrectly and this leads to a collar too big
- According to several sources, dogs should not be left unattended whilst still wearing Martingale collars in case they get snagged on something causing the collar to tighten
Summary: This collar is a great option for owners looking for quality, functionality and even a customer satisfaction guarantee.
How to Choose a Collar for German Shepherd
Durability and strength – Ideally, a collar will be both corrosions- and waterproof. It is likely that your dog will come into contact with puddles, mud, rain and other materials whilst wearing his collar, so one that is reasonably washable is a must. In addition, you don’t want the collar to fall apart with normal day-to-day use. There are reports of collars breaking in various ways, such as a buckle breaking altogether or a becoming detached from the collar.
As German Shepherds can be very strong, they may exert forces on their collar especially if they are pulling on a walk, so a collar needs to be suited to the dog’s training needs too. In that case, a Martingale collar may be better than a regular flat collar.
Control – When buying a collar, you need to consider what the training needs might be for your dog. Whether he is a puppy, or an adult with some behaviors that need a little more work, a Martingale collar may be preferable. The option of a control handle can be attractive in some situations.
Comfort – The wider the collar is (to a point), the more comfortable it will be versus a thinner collar because it is less likely to chafe and irritate the dog’s skin. Wider collars are also less likely to cause inadvertent choking e.g. during play with other dogs.
The material making up the collar is also a factor in your dog’s comfort. If your dog is spending long periods in his collar, padded and lined nylon collars could be more comfortable than a Martingale collar that has a chain.
Safety – It is essential for a collar to have a D-ring for attachment of your dog’s ID and other tags. Reflective stitching is an extra option that might make for safer walking at night. For added peace of mind, you may wish to opt for your dog’s name and phone number to be embroidered in the clear font on your dog’s collar. This may be easier for some people to see than trying to read a small tag.
Looks – Most dog owners like their dog to look good too, so the color and style are important, such as fashionable versus military, for example. There are also some manufacturers who can offer a matching leash and range of other accessories.
Customer service – It is worth checking if there is an option to communicate with the seller. Also, consider whether there a guarantee in case of any problems.
The Final Words (Summary)
There are many factors to consider when buying the best collar for German Shepherd, from the material, design (flat versus Martingale), looks, comfort, and safety. This review of the five best german shepherd collars in 2019 is here to assist you in making that choice.
Other Articles You Might Also Like:
