How to Get Your Dog Used to a Collar

If your puppy or dog won't wear a collar without trying to remove it, you do have some options.

Steps

1
Take it slowly at first. Consider whether your pet has had any time in a collar. If the dog is a rescue, there is no way of knowing, but you can assume that it hasn't worn a collar before. Treat it as such, and be understanding that this new experience might be offputting for your dog.
- If they are new to the house, don't start leash training right away, unless you have to. Everything is new to them right now.
2
Make sure the collar is comfortable for the dog. The collar is a type of restraint, so it can't be loose, but it can't be tight either. You should be able to slide two fingers under it.^{[1]
X
Expert Source

Melissa Muñoz
Animal Trainer
Expert Interview. 3 September 2021.}

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3
Put the collar on your pet when you are ready to spend some time with him. You will want about 10 or 15 minutes dedicated to him.^{[2]
X
Expert Source

Melissa Muñoz
Animal Trainer
Expert Interview. 3 September 2021.}
4
Play with your pet. You want the collar to be related to a positive experience. Use this practice period to play with them, offer them lots of love, and support them through the new experience.
5
Consider doing some clicker training with her. This will help build more positive associations to the collar-wearing.
6
Repeat practice sessions regularly, for a few minutes at a time. After a few days, your dog should be fine with a collar.^{[3]
X
Expert Source

Melissa Muñoz
Animal Trainer
Expert Interview. 3 September 2021.}

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