If you have a dog, you’ll need to get him a dog collar. You will want it immediately recognizable that he has a family who loves him, otherwise your dog can get away from you and be picked up by the local dog shelter. If he’s not micro-chipped, he may actually be euthanized at that shelter before you find him, so the personalization of his collar is incredibly important. If you’re not sure where to start in your search, you’ve come to the right place. We have all the information you’ll need to pick his personalized collar below.
We reviewed dozens of personalized dog collars to identify the best of the best. We looked for the personalized collars that are reflective and those that are soft leather. We found the buckles, the clips, and the martingale styles that will let you personalize the collar to fit your dog and his training best. Whether you’re looking for a collar with a nameplate, with his name embroidered, or with it printed, we have the right personalized collar for your dog.
To go along with your dog’s personalized collar, you’ll want to find the best leash possible for him. We’ve reviewed several types, so whether you’re in the market for Hands-Free Dog Leashes, LED Dog Leashes, or Retractable Dog Leashes we’ve done the research for you on these, as well. And if you’re planning on getting a harness that will help you leash train your dog, you’ll want to take a look at The Best Dog Harnesses To Stop Pulling.
All through our research, we easily identified the Blueberry Pet Personalized Collar as the stand-out winner of the best overall personalized dog collar pick. With its unique style and durably embroidered personal touches, this is the perfect selection for a dog who needs an identifying collar.
The 5 Top-Rated Personalized Dog Collars
| Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Personalized Dog Collar Overall | Blueberry Pet Personalized Collar | 4.5 |
| Best Personalized Leather Dog Collar | Custom Catch Personalized Dog Collar | 4.7 |
| Best Budget Personalized Dog Collar | Didog Cute Padded Custom Dog Collar | 4.3 |
| Best Personalized Martingale Dog Collar | Blueberry Pet Classic Martingale Personalized Collars | 4.5 |
| Best Personalized Reflective Dog Collar | GoTags Reflective Personalized Dog Collar | 4.7 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Personalized Dog Collar Overall: Blueberry Pet Personalized Collar
The Blueberry Pet Personalized Collar features a durable and tightly embroidered stitching with your customized text. You’ll have your choice of eleven different thread colors for your text so you can match the collar pattern perfectly. And with up to 24 characters available, you’ll easily be able to identify your dog and phone number directly on his collar.
The collar itself is made with a sturdy polyester and the clasp a resilient plastic, making the collar lightweight and reasonably priced. There are a variety of accessories you may add to your purchase to make sure your pup has all matching gear, and if your dog is the fashionable sort, this is a big perk.
With nearly 2,000 customer reviews on Amazon, this personalized dog collar has plenty of support. It has an overall rating of 4.5 stars and 86% of customers that have come back to leave their rating leave a positive review.
Blueberry Pet Personalized Collar Key Features:
- Variety of matching accessories available
- 14 color choices
- 3 size options
Best Personalized Leather Dog Collar: Custom Catch Personalized Dog Collar
The Custom Catch Personalized Dog Collar is made with high-quality leather that is etched with your dog’s personal information, making it an aesthetically pleasing collar that will have him standing out among his peers. You can even choose between three different fonts to get the collar just as you like it and with up to 25 characters, you’ll have the space to display all you’ll need to get him home.
With the fun and optional heart, paw and bone design options, you can add an amusing flair to your dog’s collar without any additional cost. The buckle is a durable metal and can be adjusted within each size with its five belt holes.
This collar has a pretty big fan base if the customer reviews on Amazon are any indication. Over 4,500 people have reviewed this item to give it an overall rating of 4.7 stars. And that makes this collar incredibly tempting!
Custom Catch Personalized Dog Collar Key Features:
- 6 color options
- 4 sizes available
- Made with engraved leather
Best Budget Personalized Dog Collar: Didog Cute Padded Custom Dog Collar
The Didog Cute Padded Custom Dog Collar includes a robust metal nameplate, which will come engraved with your requested inscription. You can add up to thirty characters, so it will easily and clearly display your dog’s name and your phone number. (Depending on your dog’s name, you may even be able to get a second number or your address on there, as well.)
The collar is made with soft leather and includes a padded layer between two leather strips to form a collar that is plush and comfortable for your dog. The buckle closure is made of the same metal as the nameplate and it has multiple size adjustments for each size. So your puppy may still fit in this collar when he’s full-grown, too.
There are nearly 400 customer reviews for this collar on Amazon with an overall rating of 4.3 stars, and while that’s probably excellent news if you’re looking to buy it, the real selling point is the price. You can get this collar, customized to your specifications, for under $10!
Didog Cute Padded Custom Dog Collar Key Features:
- Engraved customization on a metal nameplate
- 7 color options
- 3 sizes available
Best Personalized Martingale Dog Collar: Blueberry Pet Classic Martingale Personalized Collar
The Blueberry Pet Classic Martingale Personalized Collar is a sturdy nylon collar that has your personalization tightly embroidered onto it with your choice of font and colored thread. You’ll be able to add your phone number and your dog’s name onto the collar using up to 24 characters so he’ll have all the information he needs to get safely home to you.
There is no buckle, due to the nature of a martingale collar; you’ll need to adjust the collar each time you take it off or put it on. This extra step could help you remember to take the collar off to make sure your dog is getting some downtime, and will probably make the leash training process go a bit more smoothly.
Sitting with just around 4,000 customer reviews on Amazon, this personalized dog collar has an overall rating of 4.5 stars. While that’s certainly nothing to scoff at, a quick look through those reviews will be what really has you sold.
Blueberry Pet Classic Martingale Personalized Collar Key Features:
- 11 text color options
- 6 sizes available
- 30 color choices
Best Personalized Reflective Dog Collar: GoTags Reflective Personalized Dog Collar
The GoTags Reflective Personalized Dog Collar includes a durable plastic side buckle that will withstand frequent use and ensure that putting it on and taking it off comes easily for human hands (and not for paws). You can choose from a variety of collar colors and thread colors to make the collar just what you’d like and with up to 25 characters, you should be able to identify your dog’s name and your phone number. (Unless of course your pet’s name is Abraham DeLacey Guiseppe Casey Thomas O’Malley. In that case, you’re going to have to get him a few collars.)
The collar has a reflective tape sewn along the entire length and your personalization will be embroidered along that length, as well. Keep in mind that the longer your text, the more likely that the plastic adjustment buckle will cover parts of it, but in all likelihood, you’ll still be able to easily read the text.
Just over 2,000 customer reviews on Amazon have earned this collar an overall rating of 4.7 stars. That’s plenty to build credibility, we think; and enough to build your confidence in your probable satisfaction.
GoTags Reflective Personalized Dog Collar Key Features:
- 14 text color options
- 5 color choices
- 3 size widths and lengths available
Who Should Buy a Personalized Dog Collar
Your veterinarian will very likely recommend you get your dog micro-chipped to make sure that no matter where he goes, he can be identified by shelters and vet offices. Anyone who has a microchip reader will be able to identify your dog as yours once you have him chipped. Realistically, though, the people who find your dog after he’s been lost or has run away, probably won’t have a microchip reader. And while your dog may be a lovable ball of fluff, most people don’t feel comfortable taking a strange dog in their car to the shelter or local vet office. They are far more likely to be comfortable getting his name and your phone number from the collar without taking him anywhere.
If you have an aggressive dog, then you won’t want to be held responsible for anyone who gets too close. Even for the dog who isn’t known to be aggressive, you don’t know what he’s liable to do when he’s lost or scared, and because you’re his parent, his actions are your responsibility, whether you’re there or not. A collar that prominently displays your number without a stranger needing to touch him is definitely best in this scenario.
For dog parents that move a lot, a microchip is only useful if you update it every move. The phone number may not change, but the address will and you’ll want to make sure your pup has the most current information to ensure a fast return home for him. And while changing the address and number on the microchip is relatively easy, it’s only easy if you remember the online login information. Moving means the potential for losing any paperwork you may have on that, too, so a personalized collar may still be easiest way to find you, even with a microchip.
Important Features to Consider
A personalized dog collar should have a few important features. Here’s what to consider when selecting a personalized dog collar:
- Shipping time. Something you may not consider when buying a product on Amazon is the shipping time. After all, over 100 million people have Amazon Prime which boasts faster shipping and therefore you may not be accustomed to checking shipping times anymore. However, fast shipping occurs because Amazon ships your merchandise out from one of their factories. Customized items can’t remain stocked in their factories (Otherwise it wouldn’t’ be personalized). If you’re ordering a collar that has “Fido” embroidered on it, you can expect it to take at least a week to get to you. Often times, the shipping will take even longer; look out for items shipping from the other side of the world.
- The right personalization for each collar type. A standard dog collar can handle any number of personalization types, but you’ll need to make sure you’re getting the right type for the right collar. A flat and durable nylon woven collar, for example, will take an embroidery especially well without any fraying or loose threads. A leather collar won’t withstand the embroidery machine quite as well but will take a branding or engraving, unlike the nylon. You can have a plate that can be etched and sewn onto the collar, but you’ll need to keep in mind that may not work for some collar types. The martingale, for example, may not be comfortable for your dog with the plate positioning in relation to the martingale loop. Decide what fits your dog and his needs and find the right personalized collar for him.
- Closures. If you get a standard collar for your dog to have personalized, there are still a few options for how to close that collar and each have their own benefits you’ll want to consider. A plastic clip will be the easiest to put on and take off and the most likely for your dog to be able to remove. This can be either a pro (when your dog gets his collar stuck and needs to pull it off for his own safety) or a con (when your dog pulls on his leash and it snaps open, for example). There are varying degrees of security with the plastic clasp, though and you may find a few that have a safety lock that will protect your dog from escape. A clip like this will work best for a well-behaved dog. The buckle type will latch more securely and is more durable; they are primarily made of metal, which is more chew-proof for puppies who love to find something to chew. (Although he would need to remove it to do so, and with it fit properly on his neck, that’s not too worrisome.)
- Reflective. If you’re planning on walking with your dog then he’ll absolutely need a reflective collar. But even if your dog doesn’t spend much time on walks or on the road, you still can benefit from a reflective collar, just in case. If he runs off, there’s a good chance you weren’t planning it, and in anticipation of the unexpected, a reflective collar will make him more visible if he’s wandering the streets at night. And if you have a big yard, the collar will help you find him at night to make sure he isn’t getting into trouble.
- Embroidered vs. printed. Having your dog’s information printed is typically the least expensive option and often faster to ship, since it takes slightly less time to print than to embroider; but the printing can wear over time or even fade with too much sun. The embroidered option may take more time but, if done properly and sewn tightly, will last longer. You’ll be able to pick the color and font of both printed and embroidered personalization, but the printed color has more give and is more flexible for your dog’s neck. The embroidered text can make the collar stiffer and less comfortable for him, so weigh your options before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size collar should I get my puppy?
To find the right size collar for your dog, you’ll want to start by measuring his neck. – The same goes for a puppy. Take a soft tape measure (like the kind used for fabric) and wrap it so it fits snugly but not tightly around your dog’s neck. When you’re looking for a collar, make sure you’re finding one that will fit his size, but loosely. That is, find one that is approximately that size, erring on a bit bigger. When you put the collar on, you’ll want to be able to slide two of your fingers in between his neck and the collar.
When you’re purchasing for a puppy that will grow, the wider range of adjustments the better. Make sure you’re finding a collar that is, at its smallest adjustment, a proper fit for your puppy. As he grows, you’ll be able to increase the adjustment to make sure it always fits him. You may need to buy a replacement for his larger neck once he’s full-grown, but with enough forethought and proper planning, you may also be able to find one that will adjust from his puppy neck to his adult neck.
What is a martingale dog collar?
A martingale collar will provide you with a bit more control over your dog while you’re leash training him. It has a loop connected to the standard collar that the leash will hook onto and, if your dog pulls too tightly, it will pull snugly on his neck, as well. There is only so far that he’ll be able to pull before the collar reaches full tightness and it will never be tight enough to harm your dog, just make him uncomfortable. They’re also referred to as humane choke collars or a whippet or greyhound collar. With the proper fit, it will be loose while your dog walks and only tight if he tries to pull away. They’ll slip on and off with adjustments and without a clasp closure. They are not the slip collars or chock chains you may have seen before that have gone out of favor, as the martingale collar cannot constrict his airway, as long as you have it fitted properly.
What should you put on your dog’s tag?
When you’re thinking what you need to have on your dog’s personalized collar, keep in mind efficiency. You’ll probably want his name, yes, but that’s not going to help anyone locate his home if he’s lost. You’ll absolutely want to include a phone number where you can be reached at all times (likely your cell phone number). That’s probably all you’ll have room for if you’re printing or embroidering it directly to his collar, and that should be enough to make sure he’s going to get where he needs to be. If you have space to stamp or etch it onto a metal plate, you may want to include your address and your own name, too. That way whoever finds your dog will know what your name is when they call you, and if he’s located nearby, they may even be able to bring him right to your front door. If it’s at an inopportune time, depending on your community and relationship with your neighbors, they may be able to put him back into your yard without bothering you at all. For example, if it’s late and the gate just hadn’t latched, slipping your dog back in and closing the gate safe and sound will be a huge help – but only if they know your address.
Is it OK to leave a dog’s collar on?
While you want to make sure your dog’s collar is on him at all times when he’s not inside the comfort of his own home, the truth is that he could use a break from time to time. In fact, if you don’t ever take the collar off, he could suffer some negative, long-term side effects. He could suffer skin and coat damage, and if you’re not around, he could get it caught and hurt himself. If your dog is crate trained, for example, you should get into the habit of taking his collar off and putting it back on when he goes into and comes out of the crate, respectively. The collar could get caught on something in the crate while he’s doing his sleepy circles and he could harm himself.
It likely won’t be a concern if he goes a night or two without removing the collar, but it’s a good practice to give him a long break every once and a while at least. You don’t want to wear a necklace all the time, and he probably doesn’t either. You do need to make sure the collar is on him every single time he exits your home, though. If you’re worried about forgetting to put it back on after taking it off for the night, try hanging it somewhere you’re definitely going to notice in the morning. Hang it by the door where you let him out or by the food where you feed him every morning. He’ll definitely remind you of those two things, and by doing that, he may remind you to put his collar back on, too.
Other Personalized Dog Collars We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other personalized collars for dogs. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best personalized dog collars list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your dog. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- Personalized Dog Collars with Buckles
- Personalized Dog Collars with Clips
- Personalized Martingale Dog Collars
Personalized Dog Collars with Buckles
Key Features:
- 3 sizes available
- 2-pack
- Reflective tape
Cost: $10
Key Features:
- 4 size options
- 15 colors available
- Made with double-layered leather
Cost: $30
Key Features:
- 5 size options
- 4 colors available
- Maximum of 22 characters, 2 lines
Cost: $10
Key Features:
- Water-resistant
- Flea collar; protects from fleas, mosquitoes, and ticks
- Money-back guarantee
Cost: $10
Key Features:
- 3 size options
- 6 color choices
- Matching leashes available for purchase
Cost: $15
Key Features:
- 4 sizes available
- 18 collar pattern choices
- 10 plate color options
Cost: $25
Personalized Dog Collars with Clips
Key Features:
- 6 patterns available
- 3 size choices
- 100% quality guarantee
Cost: $15
Key Features:
- 6 size options
- 7 color choices
- Additional matching leash available for purchase
Cost: $30
Key Features:
- 4 pattern options
- 5 sizes available
- Up to 30 characters
Cost: $30
Key Features:
- 4 size options
- 9 colors available
- Made with 2 layers durable nylon webbing
Cost: $15
Key Features:
- 5 color options
- 4 size choices
- Up to 25 characters
Cost: $20
Key Features:
- 5 color options
- 4 sizes available
- 11 text color choices
Cost: $15
Key Features:
- 2 font options
- 4 sizes available
- 12 color choices
Cost: $10
Key Features:
- 16 thread color options
- 17 collar color choices
- 8 sizes available
Cost: $20
Key Features:
- 7 color choices
- 4 sizes available
- Up to 25 characters
Cost: $15
Key Features:
- 21 color choices
- 5 sizes available
- Up to 1 optional art icon + 24 characters
Cost: $25
Personalized Martingale Dog Collars
Key Features:
- Brass nameplate and embossed name included
- Nameplate can include up to 17 characters on 2 lines
- 16 color choices for the embossing
Cost: $25
Key Features:
- 6 font options
- 3 sizes available
- Up to 12 characters on each of 2 lines
Cost: $10
Key Features:
- 3 size options
- 2 font choices
- Matching leash available for purchase
Cost: $35
Key Features:
- 3 color choices
- 1″W x 16″L(closed) to 32″L(open)
- Removable nameplate
Cost: $15
Featured Image Credit: Brady Wakely, Unsplash
