Sarah Mitchell 
If you’re the proud owner of a Bernese Mountain Dog, you already know that these gentle giants are a special breed, full of energy, strength, and love. But with that size and personality comes a unique set of needs, particularly when it comes to choosing the right collar. In this guide, we’ll explore the best collars for Bernese Mountain Dogs, so you can find the perfect one for your furry friend.
Why Choosing the Right Collar for Your Bernese Mountain Dog Matters
Importance of Fit and Comfort
Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, muscular dogs, which means comfort is key when choosing a collar. A poor fit can cause chafing, discomfort, and even injury. The collar needs to be snug but not too tight, ensuring that your dog can wear it for extended periods without irritation.
Safety Considerations
Collars aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re also a critical safety feature. A good collar will help keep your dog secure during walks and adventures while also making sure they don’t slip out. For larger breeds like Bernese Mountain Dogs, the collar must be strong enough to handle their strength, especially if they pull.
Style and Personalization
Your dog’s collar can also be a fun way to express their personality. Many collars come with options for personalization, such as engraved nameplates or reflective designs for better visibility during night walks.
Understanding the Unique Needs of Bernese Mountain Dogs
Size and Strength of the Breed
The Bernese Mountain Dog is a big, strong breed, often weighing between 70 to 115 pounds. Their collar needs to withstand this size and strength, especially during outdoor activities.
Active Lifestyle and Outdoor Adventures
Bernese Mountain Dogs love the outdoors and are known for their adventurous spirit. Whether you’re hiking, walking, or playing in the yard, their collar should be durable enough to handle these high-energy activities.
Managing Thick Fur and Shedding
With a thick double coat, a Bernese Mountain Dog’s fur can get caught in certain collars, leading to discomfort or even skin irritation. It’s crucial to select a collar that won’t tangle or pull on their fur.
Types of Dog Collars for Bernese Mountain Dogs
Flat Collars
Flat collars are the most common type of collar and work well for Bernese Mountain Dogs. They’re easy to use and can come with added padding for comfort. Look for flat collars made from durable materials like nylon or leather.
Martingale Collars
These collars provide extra control without choking your dog. They tighten slightly when your dog pulls, offering gentle correction while still being safe. This type of collar is especially good for Bernese Mountain Dogs who tend to pull during walks.
Harness vs. Collar Debate
Some owners prefer using a harness over a collar for walking their dogs, especially larger breeds like the Bernese Mountain Dog. Harnesses distribute the pressure across the dog’s chest and back, reducing strain on their neck.
Training Collars: When Are They Appropriate?
Training collars, such as prong or choke collars, should be used with caution and only for short-term training purposes. These collars can be effective tools in professional hands but are not recommended for everyday use.
How to Measure Your Bernese Mountain Dog for a Collar
Neck Size and Adjustability
To ensure the collar fits properly, measure your dog’s neck with a soft measuring tape. Add two inches to the measurement to allow for breathing room. Look for collars that are adjustable to accommodate changes in size, especially for growing puppies.
Avoiding Choking Hazards
Be mindful of collars that are too tight or too loose. A tight collar can choke your dog, while a loose one can lead to escape. The rule of thumb is to leave two fingers’ width of space between the collar and your dog’s neck.
Top Features to Look for in a Bernese Mountain Dog Collar
Durability
Given the strength of a Bernese Mountain Dog, the collar must be built to last. Nylon and leather are two materials known for their durability and can withstand daily wear and tear.
Padding and Comfort
Extra padding can prevent chafing, especially for long walks or adventures. A padded collar will be more comfortable for your dog and reduce the risk of irritation.
Buckle and Fastening Type
Look for collars with secure, easy-to-use fastenings like metal buckles or strong plastic clips. Metal buckles are more durable, especially for a dog as strong as a Bernese Mountain Dog.
Top 5 Best Collars for Bernese Mountain Dogs
Heavy-Duty Nylon Collar
Nylon collars are durable, weather-resistant, and affordable. They’re perfect for outdoor-loving Bernese Mountain Dogs.
The Military Grade Tactical Dog Collar is crafted from durable, double-layer nylon with reinforced stitching, making it strong yet lightweight for active dogs. Featuring a rustproof metal buckle, adjustable fit, and soft neoprene padding, it ensures maximum comfort and security during outdoor adventures. Its simple, functional design is perfect for daily use without irritating your dog’s skin or fur.
Leather Collar
A classic choice, leather collars are durable and stylish. They’re also great for dogs with thick fur, as they are less likely to cause tangles.
The PET ARTIST leather dog collar is made from 100% genuine full-grain leather, offering durability and style. Its soft, handcrafted design ensures comfort for your pet, while the unique rivet and sturdy zinc alloy buckle provide a cool, medieval-inspired look that’s both elegant and functional.
Martingale Collar for Training
For dogs that pull, a martingale collar offers gentle correction. It’s a great tool for training your Bernese Mountain Dog.
Mikivery martingale dog collar is made from durable, breathable nylon and features strong nickel-plated steel hardware for added safety. Designed for gentle training, it tightens when pulled, providing effective control without discomfort. Available in various sizes for small, medium, and large dogs, it’s perfect for both training and everyday use.
Personalized Reflective Collar
For added safety, a reflective collar ensures your dog is visible at night. You can also add your dog’s name and contact information for personalization.
GoTags Reflective Personalized Dog Collar enhances visibility and safety with durable nylon webbing and smooth, comfortable edges. It features your dog’s name and phone number embroidered for lasting durability, along with a secure plastic buckle and stainless steel D-ring. Perfect for day or night use, it offers both comfort and peace of mind.
Tactical Collar for Extra Control
Tactical collars are designed for working dogs and provide additional control during walks. These collars are often padded and come with heavy-duty buckles.
KCUCOP Tactical Dog Collar is made from high-quality 1680D nylon with soft padding for comfort. Featuring a sturdy handle for quick control, a metal buckle for durability, and an adjustable fit, it can withstand up to 661 lbs of pulling force. Ideal for training, patrolling, and outdoor adventures with large, strong dogs.
Maintaining and Caring for Your Dog’s Collar
Regular Cleaning
It’s important to clean your dog’s collar regularly to remove dirt and bacteria. Most collars can be hand-washed with mild soap and water.
Inspecting for Wear and Tear
Check your dog’s collar regularly for signs of wear, such as frayed edges or a weakened buckle. Replacing the collar before it breaks ensures your dog stays safe.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Collar
Choosing the Wrong Size
Always measure your dog’s neck before purchasing a collar. A collar that’s too small can choke your dog, while a collar that’s too large can slip off.
Using the Wrong Collar Type for Training
Using a prong or choke collar without proper training can cause harm. Stick to flat or martingale collars for everyday use and consult a professional if you’re unsure about training collars.
Frequently Asked Questions
You should inspect your dog’s collar regularly and replace it if you notice signs of wear, such as fraying or a damaged buckle. Typically, collars last between 6 months to a year, depending on usage.
Harnesses can be a better choice for walking if your dog tends to pull, as they distribute pressure more evenly across their body. However, a collar is still useful for ID tags and everyday use.
Choke collars should only be used by professionals or under the guidance of a trainer, as they can cause injury if not used correctly.
Nylon and leather are both excellent choices. Nylon is durable and weather-resistant, while leather offers a stylish and long-lasting option.
A properly fitting collar should allow you to insert two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. It should be snug but not too tight.
Conclusion
Choosing the right collar for your Bernese Mountain Dog is essential for their comfort, safety, and style. Whether you prefer a durable nylon collar or a personalized reflective option, always prioritize a good fit and quality materials. By considering your dog’s unique needs, you can find the perfect collar that will keep them happy and safe on all their adventures.