Strong Collars For Big Softies
They may look big and tough, but Staffies are the biggest softies out there. Despite typically weighing around 15kgs, these pooches regularly confuse themselves for lap dogs. Lying all over you as you’re trying to watch Netflix on the couch.
So it only makes sense that Staffies need a collar that’s just like them.
Tough, durable, soft and cute (the cuteness is optional).
We’ve pulled together a list of the best dog collars for Staffies. We’ve got collars in a range of sizes and materials that are strong enough to stand up to their powerful build but soft enough that they won’t rub too much as they snuggle up on the couch.
Choosing the Right Collar for Your Staffy
Staffies are a unique breed in that you very rarely get a dog that is so strong but with such sensitive skin.
That means that one of the most important things to think about is the material of the collar. It needs to be strong enough to stand up to the everyday wear and tear, yet soft enough that it doesn’t irritate their skin.
You may also want to opt for collars that have comfort padding, if you have a particularly sensitive Staffy, as that will further reduce the rubbing and irritation.
There are also considerations around strength, how secure it is and the width.
We’ve pulled together the tables below on what to look for and what to avoid when choosing a dog collar to make your life easier.
✅ What to look for:
|
Feature |
Why Choose It |
|
Strong, Durable Materials |
Staffies are powerful dogs—opt for materials like nylon, leather, or reinforced polyester that can handle pulling and play. |
|
Secure Hardware |
Look for metal buckles or D-rings (not plastic) to keep the collar secure, even during zoomies or tug-of-war. |
|
Wide Collar Width |
A wider collar (around 1.5–2 inches) helps distribute pressure and reduces strain on their neck. |
|
Comfort Padding |
Staffies can have sensitive skin—padded or lined collars help prevent rubbing or irritation. |
|
Adjustable Fit |
To accommodate muscle gain or loss, choose a collar with multiple adjustment points for a snug but comfy fit. |
|
Style and Personality |
Staffies have big personalities! Look for bold colours or patterns that reflect their cheeky charm. |
|
Reflective/Visibility Features |
Useful for early morning or evening walks—reflective stitching or bright colours improve safety. |
❌ What to avoid:
|
Feature |
Why Avoid It |
|
Flimsy or Decorative-Only Collars |
These may look nice, but they won’t hold up to Staffy strength and can be unsafe. |
|
Plastic Buckles/Weak Fastenings |
These are more prone to snapping under pressure. Always choose heavy-duty hardware. |
|
Thin, Narrow Collars |
These can dig into your dog’s neck and are uncomfortable for breeds with stocky builds. |
|
Unpadded or Harsh Materials |
Staffies have short coats and sensitive skin—rough edges or stiff materials can cause chafing. |
|
One-size-fits-all |
Staffies vary in neck size and muscle mass. A poor fit can cause discomfort or even escape risks. |
|
Choke Chains (for general use) |
These can cause injury if used incorrectly and aren’t ideal for everyday wear. Opt for martingale styles if you need more control. |
5 Best Collars for Staffies
1. Ancol Heritage Collars (Sizes 5–9)
Looking for a durable and stylish collar for your Staffy? Then you can't go wrong with Ancol's Heritage Collars. Made from tough nylon webbing, these collars are perfect for everything from a beach trip to a casual stroll around the block.
Since Staffies tend to pull on their leashes, the sturdy snap-buckle offers the ideal combination of strength and convenience. Plus, these collars are available in sizes 5-9 (accommodating neck measurements between 45 and 75 centimetres), ensuring a comfortable fit, even for your Staffy's thick neck.
Shop the collar here
2. Ancol Plain Sewn Leather Collars (Sizes 5–9)
If you appreciate the timeless look and feel of leather, the Ancol Plain Sewn Leather Collar is an excellent choice. Crafted from 100% real leather, this collar offers a blend of classic style, security and ease of use, thanks to its traditional metal buckle.
Beyond their straightforward functionality, these collars are designed with durability in mind. The sewn finish prevents fraying, making them robust enough to withstand the antics of even the most playful Staffy.
While the leather is soft against your dog's skin, it's also incredibly strong. And remember, real leather softens and becomes even more comfortable with age.
Check out the red version here
3. Ancol Tartan Collars (Sizes 5–9)
Celebrate your dog's British roots with an Ancol Tartan Collar, available in classic blue and red. Made from tough nylon, this collar is ready for anything, from brisk walks to playful swims. Plus, the classic snap-buckle ensures it's quick and easy to put on or take off in just seconds.
Available in sizes 5 to 9 (45-75 cm), there's plenty of room for growing Staffy puppies. You can also add a matching lead to complete the look.
Shop the collar here.
4. Ancol Nylon Semi-Choke Collars (Sizes 5–9)
If your Staffy tends to pull on the lead, the Ancol Nylon Semi-Choke Collar is a smart training tool. It provides a gentle correction without the harsh pressure of a traditional choke collar, making it a safer option for Staffies as they typically have sensitive skin.
To ensure the perfect fit for your Staffy's neck, choose from size 4-7, 5-9 or 7-10. You can also pick a collar that matches your dog's personality or your preference, with options in classic black or a vibrant red.
Shop the collar here.
5. Ancol Padded Collars (Sizes 5–9)
Sometimes Staffies like to test your strength. So having a collar that can withstand without irritating their sensitive skin is important. This Ancol Padded Collar has extra plush cushioning which acts as a bit of buffer between the collar and the skin, minimising any irritation.
Combine that with the robust and secure buckle design, you can rest safe in the knowledge that it won’t unexpectedly break or slip, even if you have got a bit of a puller on your hands.
Shop the collar here.
FAQs
What size collar does a Staffy need?
Generally, a medium-sized collar (measuring between 45 and 75 centimetres) is a good choice for Staffies. However, it's always a good idea to measure your dog's neck and consult a size chart before making a purchase.
Is nylon or leather better for Staffies?
While nylon and leather are both suitable collar materials for Staffordshire Bull Terriers, nylon is often the preferred choice thanks to its affordable price, durability, and ease of cleaning. Leather looks great and lasts for years, but it can be pricier and may require more maintenance.
Can Staffies wear semi-choke collars?
Yes. Also called martingale collars, semi-choke collars tighten slightly as your dog pulls, which helps with leash control and prevents your Staffy from slipping out of their collar mid-walk. Unlike traditional choke collars, they're designed to be much gentler and are considered the more humane option.
How tight should a collar be on a Staffy?
Your Staffy's collar should always fit snugly without being too tight. You should always be able to slip two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck. Just watch out for making the collar too loose, as this could end in your Staffy wriggling out.
Do Staffies need a harness instead of a collar?
Collars are great for holding ID tags and going on casual strolls, but harnesses are a better choice for long walks. Harnesses distribute the pressure to your dog's chest and back, which makes them essential for training and walking.
Strong Where It Counts, Soft Where It Matters, Stylish Too. The Collars Are Nice As Well.
Your Staffy isn’t just strong—they’re a powerhouse of love, loyalty, and a little bit of cheek. So it makes sense that their collar should be just as tough and dependable, while still being gentle enough for those sensitive spots.
Whether you’re looking for something bold, classic, padded, or built for training, the collars in this post are designed to handle all the zoomies, sofa snuggles, and all the muddy adventures your Staffy can throw at them.
Don’t forget to check out our other posts no pull harnesses that work, stylish and sturdy dog collars for Frenchies, and the best dog collars for small dogs.