Recovery Collar Size Guide
BENCMATE Recovery Collar Size Guide
Getting the right size is the most important step. A collar that's too small won't protect effectively; too large and your pet can pull it off. Follow the two steps below and you'll get it right the first time.
How to Measure
- Use a soft tape measure (or a piece of string measured against a ruler).
- Wrap it around your pet's neck at the base, where the collar will sit — not up by the ears.
- Keep it snug but not tight — you should be able to slip one finger underneath.
- Add 0.5 inch to your measurement.
- Match the resulting number to the chart below. When in doubt, size up.
BENCMATE Size Chart
| Size | Neck Circumference | Typical Breeds / Cats |
|---|---|---|
| XS | Up to 6” | Most cats, kittens, Chihuahua, Toy Poodle |
| Small | 5”–8” | Cats, Shih Tzu, Maltese, Yorkshire Terrier |
| Medium | 8”–12” | Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, French Bulldog, Miniature Poodle |
| Medium+ | 11”–14” | Border Collie, Shetland Sheepdog, Corgi |
| Large | 12”–18” | Labrador, Golden Retriever, Boxer, Standard Poodle |
| Large+ | 14”–18” | German Shepherd, Doberman, Husky |
| X-Large | 18”–25” | Great Dane, Rottweiler, Saint Bernard |
| XX-Large | 25”+ | Mastiff, Newfoundland, extra-large breeds |
Measurements are neck circumference at the base. When your pet falls between sizes, always choose the larger size.
Tips for Getting the Best Fit
- Cats: Use XS (neck up to 6”) or Small (neck up to 9”). Cats have finer necks than their body size might suggest — always measure.
- Puppies: Measure as adults — puppies grow quickly. If you're purchasing for a dog that's still growing, size up.
- Thick-coated breeds: Measure over the coat for the most accurate fit.
- The collar should feel snug when fastened: you should be able to slip two fingers underneath, but no more.
Fitting After Inflation
- Thread your pet's everyday collar through the inner ring loops of the BENCMATE collar.
- Inflate via the air valve using the included straw until the collar is firm and fully rounded.
- Fasten the velcro strap. The collar should sit snugly at the base of the neck.
- Check fit: your pet's head should not be able to pass through the inflated collar. If it can, size down.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sizing
- My dog is between a Medium and a Large — which do I choose?
- Always size up. A slightly larger collar is safer and more comfortable than one that's too tight.
- My cat's neck is 7” — XS or Small?
- Small (5”–8” range). XS is designed for necks up to 6”; at 7” you need the Small.
- The collar seems too big — should I deflate some air?
- No. The fit is adjusted using the velcro strap, not by changing the inflation level. If the strap at its tightest is still loose, size down.
Questions about sizing? Contact us and we'll help you find the right fit.