Dog Between Recovery Collar Sizes? How to Choose the Right Fit

If your dog's neck falls between two recovery collar sizes, measure again snugly, add half an inch, and pick the size whose range contains that number. If it lands on the boundary, choose the larger size, then adjust the strap until two fingers fit between collar and neck.

BENCMATE sizes run in 3-inch steps, so a neck that measures 10 inches sits on the edge of Small and Medium. This guide shows how to settle it in a couple of minutes, and how to tell if you chose wrong.

What size recovery collar do I need if my dog is between sizes?

Start with the measurement, not the dog's weight or breed. Wrap a soft tape (or a string, then a ruler) around the base of the neck, where a regular collar sits. Pull it snug but not tight, then add 0.5 inch. That number is your target neck circumference.

The BENCMATE size chart:

Small: neck 7 to 10 inches.

Medium: 10 to 13 inches.

Large: 13 to 16 inches.

X-Large: 16 to 19 inches.

XX-Large: 19 to 22 inches.

If your number falls inside one range, you are done. If it sits within about 0.5 inch of a boundary, size up in most cases. The velcro strap shortens the collar to fit a smaller neck, while a collar that is too small cannot be stretched. For the full measuring steps, see our dog neck measuring guide.

Should I size up or size down?

Size up when:

Your dog has thick fur or a ruff around the neck. Measure over the fur, and let it settle first.

The wound is on the back end, a hind leg or the tail, and your dog is flexible enough to twist around.

Your dog is still growing. A puppy may need a new size within weeks.

Size down when:

Your dog has a short or thin neck, such as a Pug or Bulldog, and a large collar presses on the muzzle. See inflatable collars for flat-faced dogs.

Your measurement falls near the bottom of the next range, say 10.1 inches, and your dog has a long snout that cannot reach the wound anyway.

When in doubt, use the reach test below, since the right fit is the one that keeps your dog off the wound.

How do I know if the collar is too big or too small?

Fit the collar, then check these four points:

Two-finger check: two flat fingers should slide between the collar and the neck. One finger means too tight; three or a collar that spins freely means too loose.

Breathing: no coughing, gagging or noisy breath. If you see it, loosen right away.

Reach: your dog should not be able to touch the wound with the tongue or teeth, even when stretching. If the nose gets past the collar, you need a larger size or a firmer strap. Read how to stop a dog licking a wound for backup options.

Stay-on test: your dog should not back out of it in under a minute. If they do, see dog keeps getting the collar off.

Check again after your dog has moved around for 10 minutes. Fur and skin shift, and the first fit is rarely the last.

Does the inflation level change the fit?

Yes. An under-inflated collar sags and lets a dog reach the incision, while an over-inflated one feels tight and pushes the collar into the throat. Inflate until the collar feels firm but with a little give when you press it, and top it up as needed, since the valve holds air for 24 to 48 hours. Our guide to putting on an inflatable dog collar shows the steps.

What if I order the wrong size?

Check the return or exchange policy on the product page before you order, and ask the store for help if the collar does not fit within the first 24 hours. BENCMATE's guarantee is simple: if your pet is not more comfortable than in a hard plastic cone within 24 hours, you can return it.

Dog recovery collar sizing FAQ

Do I size by weight or neck?

Neck circumference. Weight is only a rough guide, because a deep-chested Greyhound and a thick-necked Bulldog can weigh the same and need different sizes.

Can I use a collar from my last dog?

Only if the neck measurement fits the same range. Check the fit each time.

My dog is 10 inches exactly. Small or Medium?

Add half an inch, which gives 10.5, so Medium. Then use the two-finger check.

Do large and giant dogs follow the same rule?

Yes. Large breeds usually land in Large to XX-Large. Browse the collars for large dogs or giant breeds. For smaller dogs, see small dogs.

Still unsure? Measure twice, add half an inch, and pick the larger of two sizes if you are on a boundary. Then check the fit against the list above. Our broader dog recovery collar size guide adds breed examples.