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5 Best Breakaway Dog Collars

Written by: Arlene D.
| Published on August 14, 2023
iHeartDogs is reader supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you. 

Dog collars are essential for displaying your contact information if your dog gets lost, but unfortunately, collars can also get caught on things, putting your pup in danger. If you want to leave a collar on your dog while they’re unattended, a breakaway dog collar could be the perfect solution.

Breakaway dog collars, designed to automatically release under force, prevent potential entanglements and hazards. Even though breakaway collars are more common for cats, there are still some options that work for dogs. Keep reading to find out how to choose the best dog breakaway collar.

Puppy wearing collar

What is a Breakaway Dog Collar and Why Do Dogs Need One?

A breakaway dog collar is a specialized type of collar designed for dogs’ safety and comfort. Unlike traditional collars, which remain fastened unless manually opened, a breakaway collar can snap open under certain conditions, particularly if the collar gets snagged or the dog is in distress. This feature significantly reduces the risk of strangulation or injury if the dog becomes entangled in something, such as a fence, branch, or household object. If you ever leave your dog unattended while wearing a collar, one of these products can ensure your dog stays safe.

Best Breakaway Dog Collars

Petsafe KeepSafe Break-Away Collar
  • Sturdy buckle opens if excessive pressure is applied
  • Includes a separate buckle for manual removal
  • Made of durable polyester
  • Available in several sizes and colors

The Petsafe KeepSafe Break-Away Collar is the most popular option for dogs. It features a patented buckle that releases quickly if the collar becomes caught or snagged, preventing choking or injury to the pet. The collar is adjustable and compatible with using a leash, making it suitable for walks, playtime, or just hanging out around the house. It’s available in a variety of colors and sizes, making it excellent for all breeds. It’s the best option for large dogs since most breakaway collars are for small dogs and puppies.


Puppy ID Collar Identification Soft Nylon Adjustable Breakaway Collars
  • Set of 12 collars of unique colors
  • Safety buckle breaks if a puppy is in danger
  • Made of vibrant nylon
  • Comes with record cards to keep track of puppy behaviors

This is a set of 12 collars designed to help identify newborn pets, making it perfect for someone raising a litter of puppies, such as a foster parent. Each collar comes in a different color, making it easy to distinguish between puppies. Made from a soft nylon material, the collars are washable, colorfast, and reusable. They also feature a breakaway buckle for added safety and convenience. Additionally, the set includes six record keeping cards to help track important information such as feeding schedules, weight charts, health records, and new owner details.


LAFAYI Safe 18-Piece Puppy Collars
  • 18 puppy collars of different colors
  • Made of lightweight, breathable nylon
  • Safety buckle protects puppies
  • Two sizes available

This is another great set for someone who’s looking after a litter of young puppies. There are 18 nylon collars, each with a unique color so you can easily tell the puppies apart. Puppies often get into trouble, so each collar has a breakaway feature to keep the pups safe if their collar gets caught on anything. Plus, these are lightweight, breathable, and adjustable, making them comfortable for puppies to wear for long periods.


Frisco Nylon Breakaway Collar with Bell
  • Ideal for cats or small dogs
  • Made of high-quality nylon webbing
  • Breakaway design saves pets from choking
  • Available in four different colors

While technically a cat collar, this product can work well for puppies or small dogs. Unfortunately, breakaway collars are more common for cats than they are for dogs. The buckle on the collar is secure, but it can break open if the collar gets caught on anything, preventing your dog from choking or getting hurt. It’s made of high-quality nylon webbing that works well for everyday use.


YOULY The Classic Purple Reflective Rope Breakaway Collar
  • Ideal for cats or small dogs
  • Reflective stitching for increased visibility
  • Breakaway design releases pet if they get stuck
  • Available in several colors

The YOULY Classic Collar is another product designed for cats that can also work for small dogs and puppies. It has several color options, all of which come with a buckle that can easily become undone if your dog gets caught in a dangerous situation when you’re not around to help them. It even has reflective stitching to improve your pet’s visibility at night.


What Are The Benefits of Breakaway Dog Collars?

Safety

The primary advantage is the prevention of accidental strangulation. Whether your dog’s collar gets caught on a fence, branch, or even playfully tugged by another pet, the breakaway feature ensures they can free themselves from dangerous situations.

Peace of Mind

Knowing that your dog has an added layer of protection can provide significant peace of mind, especially if your dog is often unsupervised in an area with potential hazards.

Dual Functionality

Many breakaway collars come with a dual D-ring feature. This allows the owner to attach a leash without compromising the breakaway function. When a leash is hooked to both D-rings, the collar acts as a regular collar, and the breakaway function is bypassed.

Durability

Despite the breakaway feature, these collars are designed to be durable. They can withstand the daily wear and tear of active dogs, yet still function correctly during emergencies.

Ease of Use

Breakaway collars are easy to put on and take off, ensuring that dog owners can use them without any hassle.

Versatility

Many breakaway collars are adjustable and available in various sizes, making them suitable for dogs of all breeds.

Rottweiler puppy with green collar

Frequently Asked Questions About Break-Away Dog Collars

What is a breakaway dog collar?

A breakaway dog collar is a specially designed collar that automatically releases when subjected to significant force. The purpose is to prevent strangulation or injury if the collar gets caught on something.

How does the breakaway mechanism work?

The collar features a safety buckle or mechanism that disengages under pressure. When tugged forcefully, the collar will “break away” or unfasten, allowing the dog to escape without being choked or trapped.

Are breakaway collars suitable for all dog breeds and sizes?

Yes, breakaway collars come in various sizes with adjustability features, making them suitable for dogs ranging from small breeds to large ones. However, breakaway collars for small dogs and puppies and the most common.

Can I use a leash with a breakaway collar?

Many breakaway collars come with a dual D-ring feature, allowing owners to attach a leash without compromising the breakaway function. When hooked to both D-rings, the collar behaves like a regular one, bypassing the breakaway feature.

Are breakaway collars durable?

Despite their safety mechanism, breakaway dog collars are designed for durability. They can withstand daily wear and tear but will still function correctly during emergencies.

How often should I replace a breakaway collar?

It’s advisable to inspect the collar regularly for signs of wear, tear, or damage. If the breakaway mechanism shows any sign of malfunction or if the collar material is overly worn, it’s time to replace it.

Can breakaway collars be customized or personalized?

Yes, you may be able to find some custom breakaway collars, such as ones where you can add your dog’s name and contact information. However, there aren’t as many personalized breakaway collars as there are for traditional collars.

How do I know if a breakaway collar is fitting correctly?

A correctly fitted collar should allow for two fingers to slip comfortably between the collar and the dog’s neck. It should be snug but not too tight, ensuring the breakaway mechanism works while preventing the collar from slipping off.

Are breakaway collars more expensive than regular dog collars?

While breakaway collars might be slightly pricier than standard collars due to their specialized mechanism, the price difference is usually minimal, and the added safety feature justifies the cost.

Can breakaway collars be used for training?

Breakaway collars are primarily designed for safety and not for training. If you’re looking to train your dog or correct behaviors, it’s best to use training-specific collars or consult with a professional trainer for guidance.

Conclusion: Best Breakaway Dog Collars

Choosing the right collar for your dog goes beyond aesthetics; it’s an essential decision impacting their safety. Breakaway dog collars offer peace of mind, knowing that your dog has an added layer of protection against unforeseen entanglements. As we’ve navigated the best options available, it’s evident that investing in a quality breakaway collar is a testament to the care and love we hold for our four-legged family members.

iHeartDogs is reader supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you. 

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