Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Collars & Harnesses
It’s best to measure the neck circumference snugly directly against the skin—especially for long-haired dogs, so the fur isn’t included in the measurement. For dogs with loose skin (e.g., Labradors), please include the skin folds in the measurement. For harnesses, measure the chest circumference directly behind the front legs.
No measuring tape handy? No problem! Simply take a piece of string, wrap it snugly around the neck or chest, tie a knot, and then measure it with a ruler or yardstick.
Our sizes are chosen so your dog feels comfortable and the collar or harness isn’t too tight. If your dog falls between two sizes, we recommend choosing the larger one—for a comfortable fit.
Yes, our collars are made from soft, skin-friendly materials that are also ideal for sensitive dogs. They do not cause chafing or irritation, are especially comfortable—and are suitable for allergy sufferers because they contain no nickel.
No, our collars and harnesses are not suitable for machine washing, as this could damage them.
How to clean them:
- Leather collars: Do not wash these with water. Instead, care for the leather with special leather cleaners and our Tapir leather grease, applying it thinly and then polishing it.
- Rope collars with leather fittings: You can carefully hand-wash these with a mild detergent for delicates or wool. Treat the leather parts with leather care afterward.
- Brass fittings: You can remove light patina with apple cider vinegar or a silver polishing cloth.
- Harnesses: Please hand-wash them in warm water with a mild detergent for delicates or wool, without fabric softener, and leave them to air-dry.
You can also find detailed care instructions and information for each product under “Care/Use.”
Our SABRO collars come in various sizes—from small to large—so there’s a suitable option for many dogs. They are ideal for everyday use. However, for particularly strong, heavy, or hard-pulling dogs, we recommend using a dog collar specially tailored to your needs that is especially robust and durable.
Puppies generally need softer, adjustable collars that grow with them and are gentle on their sensitive necks. We do not offer special puppy collars. Our collars are adjustable and available in various sizes, so they may also be suitable for young dogs—provided the collar fits comfortably and snugly without pressing. Please pay particular attention to ensuring that it is not too heavy or too tight for a puppy’s sensitive neck, and check the fit regularly.
The basic equipment for your four-legged friend
Dog leash, collar, dog bowl & dog bed: These are the absolute basics for your dog. Like the other items, you will need the dog collar and leash several times a day. They connect you with your four-legged friend when you go for walks. To ensure your loyal companion feels comfortable, you need the right collar or dog harness.
Collars & harnesses—comfort meets safety
Collar or dog harness—which is right for you
Whether you choose a harness or a collar depends on several factors.
If your dog is already easy to handle and walks on a loose leash, a collar is the right choice. A collar gives your furry friend plenty of freedom of movement because there are no straps around the body that can, for example, restrict shoulder movement or chafe in the dog’s armpit, as can happen with a poorly fitted harness. When buying a collar, make sure it fits well, is comfortable to wear, and suits your dog’s type and needs.
Important: If you want to use a long line, be sure to use a dog harness, as the sensitive cervical spine can suffer serious injury if your dog suddenly runs off and is stopped by the collar. Likewise, a well-fitting harness must be used when walking your dog alongside a bicycle.
There are various types of collars, such as classic buckle collars, limited-slip collars, and slip collars, each offering different functions and benefits.
A collar is unsuitable for some dogs. This applies to all short-nosed dogs, such as English and French Bulldogs, German Boxers, and Pugs. Their breathing is often impaired. If a collar constricts the animal, it may react with an epileptic seizure.
This also applies to all dogs: The outdated training method of jerking the leash—also known as “signaling” or “correction”—poses a health risk. The cervical vertebrae are subjected to significant strain by a sudden jerk. The dog’s windpipe can be compressed and its larynx injured. This is also the case if your dog pulls constantly.
Martingale or training collars are pulled over the head and tighten to a certain point when the leash is pulled. A slip collar is a special type of collar that can be pulled over the dog’s head particularly easily and adjusts around the neck when pulled.
At SABRO, we believe dog owners should ideally have both at home: a suitable collar and a well-fitting harness—so they can choose the right one for every occasion.
What materials are SABRO’s dog collars and harnesses made from?
In general, a dog collar should be sturdy, lightweight, and supple. That is why we use the following materials:
- Scandinavian moose and cowhide leather
- High-quality and sturdy outdoor rope
- Soft material
Genuine leather is a natural material that looks simple yet elegant. For our collars, we use only high-quality cowhide and moose leather from Scandinavia. There, species-appropriate animal husbandry with daily access to pasture is required by law—so by choosing a leather product from SABRO, you support a particularly animal-friendly form of husbandry. Only Grade 1 moose leather is used for the soft padding underneath. Thanks to careful processing, the leather is especially comfortable to wear and extremely durable. With regular care, such as our Tapir leather grease, it will last for many years.
The outdoor rope is gentle on hands and fur and is “made in Germany.” It impresses with its high stability and does not absorb moisture.
The soft material used for the harnesses consists, among other things, of highly tear-resistant Cordura webbing and thick fleece padding. The soft inner side provides extra comfort and protects your dog’s sensitive neck area. These collars are gentle on the coat and also feature a beautiful pattern.
Our dog collars and harnesses are available in various sizes for small to large dogs. You can choose from a wide range of colors to find the right option for your dog.
Find the perfect dog collar
Before choosing a collar, you need your dog’s neck circumference. Measure snugly around the middle of the neck—this is especially important for long-haired dogs. If you don’t have a tape measure handy, you can measure with a piece of string and tie a knot at the measured point. You can then determine the length using a ruler.
To find the right collar from our range, you can use the filters on our website to narrow down the products by price, material, or color. This way, you can quickly find the right option for you and your dog. On the respective product page, you will find more information, images, and selection options for our products. Our range includes a large selection of dog collars in various collections, allowing you to choose from an extensive assortment of high-quality products.
You don't need to worry that the measurements are too tight. We have already measured our collars to fit, so there is still room for 1 finger of clearance even with the martingale function. The sizes are listed for all our collars; simply refer to the measured centimeters.
Please note: Every dog has an individual build. Fur characteristics, neck shape, and body structure can affect the fit. We therefore recommend trying on the collar calmly after purchase and checking the fit.
Martingale Collar – For Special Requirements
A martingale collar is the ideal choice for dogs that like to pull on the leash during walks or for those who need an extra level of safety. Unlike conventional collars, a martingale collar ensures that the pressure on the neck is limited and that the dog collar does not tighten uncontrollably. This helps prevent the dog from choking itself by pulling hard or the collar from sitting too tightly around its neck. A martingale collar provides additional safety and control, particularly for breeds known for pulling strongly or for dogs that are still in training.
It is important to measure the neck circumference precisely so that the martingale collar fits optimally and ensures wearing comfort. A properly fitted martingale collar allows you to lead your dog safely without putting unnecessary strain on the dog's neck. This makes every walk more relaxed and safer for both dog and owner. Make sure that the collar is made from high-quality materials and sits comfortably around your dog's neck—this combines safety, comfort, and functionality in one product.
Our Classic Dog Collars
We offer various Classic versions so you are sure to find the right one for you and your four-legged friend. The absolute classic is our CLASSIC Leather Dog Collar made from genuine moose leather with a buckle. The classic buckle collar also offers practical adjustment options, allowing it to be individually adapted to your dog’s neck circumference within a certain range. The CLASSIC Light Dog Collar is also suitable for almost all types of dogs thanks to its comfortable cut and light tension.
Long-haired dogs will love the CLASSIC Round Slip Dog Collar made from soft moose leather. It fits especially gently around the neck and coat without leaving pressure marks and protects the sensitive neck ruff. Thanks to its round shape, it visually “disappears” into the coat and prevents broken hairs or unsightly matting around the neck. This keeps your dog’s coat intact while the collar provides maximum comfort.
OUTDOOR Round Slip Dog Collar
Leather is very comfortable to wear, but it tends to become hard when wet. Unlike leather, which often becomes hard when wet, our OUTDOOR Round Slip Collar remains pleasantly soft and flexible even in rain and damp conditions thanks to its special PES fiber. It is the perfect companion for all your outdoor adventures with your dog – robust, weatherproof, and especially comfortable. Its round shape rests gently against the neck and protects the coat, so even long-haired dogs do not develop broken hairs or mats. High-quality leather fittings and the lightweight, flexible material make it a barely noticeable collar that gives your dog maximum freedom of movement.
Reasons to choose a dog harness
The point of tension is on the chest rather than, as with a collar, around the throat and neck. A collar used incorrectly on the sensitive neck can cause serious damage to the cervical spine or larynx. For example, if your dog runs off on a long line and reaches the end, the collar pulls directly on the neck. The force cannot be distributed across the chest and upper body, a much larger area, which would significantly cushion the jolt.
But the right size and fit are essential so your pet can move freely in the harness at all times. A harness that is too tight and digs in feels to a dog much like a poorly fitting backpack with constricting straps feels to us.
Situations in which a dog harness is suitable
Unlike a collar, a harness consists of more connecting pieces that fit around the neck and rib cage.
- Your dog still doesn't walk calmly or pulls on the lead.
- You work with a long lead.
- You go jogging with your dog or let them run alongside you while cycling.
- You can intervene quickly in dangerous situations.
Comfortable and durable material
The dog harness should be easy to care for and tear-resistant. That's why most models are made of webbing or nylon. The material is durable and relatively weather-resistant. You can also buy the models in various colors and designs.
The width of the strap is important. This helps distribute the tension more evenly across the dog's body. Straps that are too narrow can cut in uncomfortably when pulled.
We focus on high-quality materials so your dog feels comfortable in their harness. Our practical everyday harness is available as the V2 COMFORT WALK PRO dog harness for all sizes and the COMFORT WALK GO dog harness specifically for smaller breeds.
Why a well-fitting dog harness is so important
A dog harness must be neither too tight nor too loose. The size depends on the individual dog. We offer options for small and large dogs.
The models are flexibly adjustable, but for an ideal fit you need a size that is roughly closest to your dog's measurements. You need to consider the following criteria:
- Chest circumference,
- Neck circumference and
- Your dog's weight.
At home, be sure to let your dog go without a harness so they can fully relax and lie comfortably in their dog bed or on their dog mat.
Dog's chest circumference
To determine your dog's chest circumference, measure just behind the front legs at the widest part of the rib cage. The measuring tape should fit snugly without restricting your dog.
You always need your dog's chest circumference for a dog harness.
Dog's weight
It's easy to find out how much your dog weighs. Simply ask your veterinarian to weigh your dog during a checkup. Weighing is often part of the annual checkup as well. If you have a small dog, you can also try weighing it on your bathroom scale.
Dog collars & harnesses for training and education
Dog collars and harnesses are indispensable tools for training and raising your dog. They help you gently get your dog accustomed to the lead and minimize pulling. A properly fitting collar or harness ensures that your dog feels comfortable during training and can concentrate on the exercises. The selection of dog collars is extensive: whether classic leather collars, robust rope collars, or easy-care Biothane dog collars—for every dog and every training requirement, there is a suitable solution.
A soft, lightweight, and adjustable puppy collar is especially important for puppies, helping them get used to wearing a collar early on and have positive experiences. Investing in a high-quality collar or harness that fits perfectly and supports the dog during training is also worthwhile for adult dogs. Choosing and using the right dog collars and harnesses makes training more effective, reduces pulling on the lead, and makes training together even more enjoyable. This lays the foundation for a harmonious relationship between you and your dog.
Perfectly paired: Dog leads from SABRO
The perfect collar naturally needs the right lead—and at SABRO, you’ll find both! Our dog leads are just as high-quality as our collars. They offer safety, comfort, and an appealing design. Whether you prefer a classic leather lead or an easy-care rope lead, you’ll find the ideal solution for every everyday situation with us. Combine your SABRO collar with one of our robust and stylish dog leads and enjoy relaxed walks with your four-legged friend!
Conclusion: The right equipment for every dog
The right equipment, consisting of high-quality dog collars and leads, is a must. It not only ensures safety and comfort during walks but also adds style and individuality to everyday life. Thanks to the wide selection of materials such as leather, rope, or nylon, as well as the variety of designs, every dog owner can find the perfect collar and lead for their dog. When choosing, pay attention to the collar’s quality and fit so that your dog feels completely comfortable and is optimally protected.
The right combination of functionality, design, and safety makes every walk a special experience. Whether for training, daily walks in the park, or exuberant play in the woods—with the right dog collars and leads, you and your dog are perfectly equipped for every adventure. Invest in high-quality dog accessories and make the most of your time together with your four-legged friend!
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