Bulldogs are a breed like no other. They're stubborn, sweet, and a little ridiculous in the best way possible. It's one of the breeds that'll make you laugh with its goofy antics and snoring like a freight train on the couch, but it still frustrates you with its selective hearing. At the end of the day, they're the best companions you could ask for.
However, it's worth knowing that these little tanks have thick necks, sensitive skin, and a talent for turning a simple walk into a tug-of-war. The wrong collar can slip off, cause chafing, and make it harder for them to breathe.
So, picking the right one isn't all about checking the size and hitting the buy button. Let me walk you through the features to consider when choosing a Bulldog collar, as well as give you the best collars I have tested.
Choosing the right collar for bulldogs
Before we dive into collars, let's first see how unique Bulldogs are. Now, don't confuse those wrinkly faces, droopy jowls, and signature underbites for lethargy. Originally bred in England for the brutal bull-baiting sport, Bulldogs were built to be fearless, strong, and determined. Thankfully, those days are long gone, and today's Bulldogs are professional nappers and cuddle enthusiasts.
They're great with kids, surprisingly gentle for their stocky build, and don't need much exercise. A short walk and some playtime, and they're ready to snooze the day away. Maybe that's why they are so popular nowadays. For instance, according to the American Kennel Club, Bulldogs are the 7th most popular breed in the US.
But don't let their chill demeanor fool you. That tenacity is still in their DNA. If a Bulldog decides to do something or not do something, there's no changing their mind without some serious bribery. They sometimes behave like a toddler who's refusing bedtime, and that's why you need a collar that gives you good control.
Bulldogs are compact but solid. An adult weighs between 40-50 pounds. Their thick necks are almost as wide as their heads, which makes finding a well-fitted collar a bit tricky. Too tight? You risk making it harder for them to breathe, which is already a challenge for Bulldogs because of their short snouts.
If it's too loose, it'll slip right off. I've seen my Bulldog, Gus, slip out of a loose collar mid-walk more times than I care to admit, turning a simple outing into a game of chase. Then there's their coat. Bulldogs have short, fine fur that doesn't offer much protection. A rough collar rubs their skin raw, especially around those neck folds.
I learned this the hard way when my Bulldog ended up with an irritated neck after just a few days with a cheap collar. Another thing: even if Bulldogs aren't marathon runners, just don't underestimate their strength.
If your Bulldog spots a squirrel or decides it's time to explore, you'll feel it. They're surprisingly strong for their size, and a flimsy collar just won't cut it. You need something sturdy, secure, and comfortable enough that they'll actually wear it without protest. The same applies to training collars. Make sure the collar is safe and comfortable.
Anything that causes discomfort will just make them dig in their heels. So, what does all this mean when it comes to collar features? Bulldogs need a collar that fits snugly but doesn't choke, is gentle on their skin, and is tough enough to handle their strength and stubbornness. Here are some of the features to consider when choosing a Bulldog collar.
Material
Bulldogs have sensitive skin, and that adorable, wrinkly face isn't the only place prone to irritation. Avoid cheap, scratchy materials. I vouch for high-density nylon collars as they are durable, reliable, and lightweight. But a nylon webbing can rub against a Bulldog's skin if not lined properly. So, when going for nylon, make sure it has a neoprene or fleece lining to prevent chafing.
The advantage of neoprene is that it's also odor-resistant, so you won't deal with bad odors after drooling. Alternatively, go for leather collars. Leather is durable, looks sharp, and softens over time, which is perfect for these rough-and-tumble dogs. On the downside, leather collars easily absorb drool and become damp, smelly, and breeding ground for bacteria.
Width
If you've ever had a Bulldog on a leash when they spot another dog, you know they can pull like a freight train. Considering that about 55% of Bulldogs suffer from hypoplastic trachea, you don't want a collar that exerts excessive pressure on the trachea when the dog pulls.
So, Bulldogs need wide collars, around 1.5 to 2 inches. A wider collar distributes pressure more evenly across their neck. This prevents the collar from cutting into the skin and breaking the trachea cartilages when the dog pulls.
Closures
Bulldogs are tough dogs, strong enough to snap cheap hardware and tear the seams, and that's the last thing you want happening during a walk. Always look for heavy-duty buckles and hardware.
Metal buckles are sturdier than plastic ones, though if you're worried about weight, you can opt for a tough, quick-release plastic buckle. Just make sure it's hardened plastic. D-rings should be welded and the stitching reinforced.
Best Dog Collar for Bulldogs
We have explored the unique physical and behavioral attributes of Bulldogs, and trust me, not all collars are up for the job. But don't worry. I've done the research, and here are the best ones.
Beach 2-inch Luxe Martingale Training Collar
The Beach 2-inch Luxe Martingale Training Collar is a must-buy after adopting a Bulldog, especially if you're dealing with that classic Bulldog stubbornness on walks. This collar uses a martingale design, which means it tightens slightly when your Bulldog pulls, but never to the point of choking.
I can't tell you how many collars I've tried that either slipped right off Gus's thick neck or made him cough and wheeze—and here are the reasons. One, Bulldogs are brachycephalic, which means the trachea is small and the nostrils narrow. This causes breathing problems. So, using choke collars for these dogs is a no-no, regardless of how much they pull. Choke collars only worsen the problem.
The second issue is their shape. Their necks are almost as wide as their heads. As a result, Bulldogs easily escape from regular collars. The martingale design fixes both problems. It's snug enough to stay on without slipping but gentle enough that it doesn't hurt or restrict breathing.
Here's how it works: when your Bulldog pulls, the collar cinches just enough to apply light pressure, encouraging them to stop. The moment they ease up, the collar relaxes. It's a simple yet effective tool for training Bulldogs who think they're in charge of the leash. Gus used to pull like he was leading a sled team—until we switched to this collar. Within a week, our walks became less of a battle and more of a bonding time.
This collar is 2 inches wide, and trust me, that matters for Bulldogs. Because of their thick necks and sensitive skin, a narrow collar digs in and causes irritation. A wider collar distributes the pressure evenly, which makes it more comfortable and safer for Bulldogs.
Think of it like wearing a backpack: wide straps feel way better than thin, digging ones. So, if you've been struggling to find a collar that stays on, doesn't choke, and gives you better control, this is it. But remember, this is a training collar. So, don't use it for tie-outs.
Gold Camo 2-inch Tacti Luxe Dog Collar
If you're looking for a collar that's as tough as your Bulldog but still gentle enough for their sensitive skin, the Gold Camo 2-inch Tacti Luxe Dog Collar is the one. This collar combines rugged durability with comfort, which is what Bulldogs need. Let me explain why.
First, it's made of 1050D nylon, and if you're not familiar with that, let me break it down. The D stands for denier, which measures the thickness and durability of the fabric. At 1050D, this stuff is military-grade. It's the same kind of material used for heavy-duty gear like tactical backpacks, harnesses, and body armor.
It has an impressive warp tensile strength of 1020 pounds, meaning it can withstand a serious amount of pulling force without fraying or snapping. If you've ever had a Bulldog yanking on the leash, something that Gus once did when he spotted a pizza delivery guy and nearly dragged me across the street, you know how important a strong collar is. The Tacti Luxe holds up.
On top of that, the collar is triple-sewn and features a machine-welded, hot-rolled D-ring loop. That might sound like overkill, but with Bulldogs, it's not. Bulldogs are deceptively strong for their size, and a weak D-ring is a recipe for disaster.
I've had collars where the D-ring bent or snapped under pressure, leaving me holding an empty leash while Gus trotted off to make friends at a neighbor's barbecue. With the Tacti Luxe, you don't have to worry.
The D-ring is welded for extra strength and hot-rolled to prevent any sharp edges that could wear down the fabric or hurt your Bulldog. In terms of comfort, this collar is 2 inches wide, just like the above collar. That means a big surface area and minimal pressure per square inch, resulting in higher comfort.
Olive Double-Pin Expedition Dog Collar
When you have a Bulldog, you know their gear needs to be as sturdy and stubborn as they are. That's where the Olive Double-Pin Expedition Dog Collar comes in. This collar combines a sturdy construction of 1050D nylon with reliable dual-pin closures. If you've ever had a collar slip, loosen, or straight-up fail under pressure, you'll appreciate this closure.
It locks the collar in place, so there's no chance of it slipping. It's like a heavy-duty work belt. The collar is also adjustable, which is a must for Bulldogs. Their thick and sensitive necks make sizing tricky.
Plus, Bulldogs aren't exactly known for their svelte figures. Gus has a knack for putting on a little extra holiday weight every winter, and being able to adjust the collar without buying a new one has saved me time and money. The Expedition collar comes with a set of holes, so you have the flexibility to find the perfect fit.
Another feature that I must mention is the handle at the top. This simple feature gives you instant control over your Bulldog when you need it most. Just last week, Gus decided he absolutely had to greet a neighbor's Labrador. A quick grab of the handle, and I had Gus under control in seconds.
Now, durability and control are great, but Bulldogs also need comfort. That's where the neoprene lining comes in. The inside of this collar is padded with neoprene, a soft and flexible material that's often used in wetsuits.
Why neoprene? For one, it's gentle on the skin, which is a big deal for Bulldogs. Their short fur and sensitive neck folds make them prone to chafing, and a rough collar causes irritation and sores. The neoprene lining prevents that by creating a cushioned barrier. It's also moisture-resistant, which means it won't soak up drool.
How to Properly Fit a Collar on a Bulldog
Bulldogs have thick, muscular necks, around 18 to 24 inches in circumference for an adult. But here's the kicker: their necks are almost as wide as their heads. That means if the collar isn't fitted properly, it'll slip right off. Always measure your Bulldog's neck snugly and add about 1-2 inches for comfort.
You want the collar tight enough that it won't slide over their head, but loose enough that you can fit two fingers underneath. Remember that Bulldogs can bulk up fast or shed a few pounds if you're careful with treats, so go for adjustable collars. I recommend clip on collars so you won't have problems trying to slide the collar over your Fido's head.
Final Thoughts
Bulldogs are one of the best dog breeds to own, from their adorable smushy faces to their sweet and a little unpredictable temperament. However, you need to keep in mind that comfort and safety go hand in hand for Bulldogs. They're a brachycephalic breed, meaning their short snouts make them prone to breathing issues.
So, you must always avoid putting unnecessary pressure on their necks. But still you have to maintain good control over these little tanks. That's why I recommend the above collars as they balance safety, comfort and reliability. They are made of 1050D nylon, which makes them sturdy and reliable. They are also wide and padded for maximum comfort.