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Best Collars for Australian Cattle Dogs

Posted on by Carlton Clark
31
Jul

The best collar for an Australian Cattle Dog is secure, wide, and built for high energy. Martingale, leather, and Biothane® styles offer comfort and control. Proper fit prevents escapes, rubbing, or chewing, especially on strong pullers like Blue Heelers.

If you’re shopping for the best collar for an Australian Cattle Dog, start with this: a secure, wide collar made from durable materials like Biothane®, leather, or martingale styles is your best bet. 

These dogs are strong, smart, and built to move, so their gear needs to keep up without rubbing, slipping, or falling apart mid-run.

At Mimi Green, we make handcrafted collars designed with high-drive breeds like the Australian Cattle Dog in mind. Choose from waterproof Biothane®, leather, or engraved martingales, all made to order in the USA, so your dog gets a collar that fits their strength and their style.

Want to know why these collars work, how to measure for the perfect fit, and what to avoid? We’ll break it all down, read on if you’re ready to get the paw-fect setup for your Cattle Dog.

Australian Cattle Dog Collar Sizing Guide


Most ACDs wear collars sized between 12-20 inches, but exact fit is crucial. Here’s how to measure their neck and get a paw-fect match.

When it comes to Australian Cattle Dogs, a snug, well-proportioned collar makes all the difference. These athletic pups often have muscular necks and narrow heads, so slipping out of a loose collar happens more than you’d think.

To measure correctly:

  • Use a soft measuring tape and wrap it around the base of your dog’s neck, where the collar naturally sits. 
  • Apply the two-finger rule: you should be able to slip two fingers comfortably under the tape. 

For most adult ACDs, size M or  ML (12–18″) works well. Some larger males may need XL. Puppies? Start smaller and recheck often, they grow fast. And for dogs with thick seasonal coats, adjustable collars or custom sizing help maintain comfort and control without constant slipping or shifting.

Pros & Cons of Each Collar Type for ACDs

Featured Product: Nylon Martingale Collar

From Martingales to Biothane®, here’s how each collar type stacks up for ACDs, and when to use them. Since this is a working breed, a flat collar is often the safest option during active herding.

Martingale Collars

These collars are a favorite for Australian Cattle Dogs who pull or try to escape flat collars. Martingales tighten gently when tension is applied, giving you a secure hold without choking. They’re ideal for leash training and structured walks.

Biothane® Collars

Tougher than leather, lighter than metal. Biothane® is waterproof, stink-proof, and super easy to wipe clean, perfect for Cattle Dogs who herd, swim, or dig their way through muddy trails. Bonus: it resists mold and holds up to daily wear.

Leather Collars

Smooth, classic, and comfortable, leather softens with time and molds to your dog’s neck. Just avoid stiff edges or cheap finishes.

Canvas Collars

Canvas buckle collars work well for holding ID tags or for quick indoor wear. 

Collar vs Harness for Australian Cattle Dogs

  • A strong-willed breed like the Australian Cattle Dog often does best with a dual setup: a secure collar for tags and training cues, and a well-fitted harness for daily walks.
  • Mimi Green’s Step-In Harness is designed for wide-chested, active dogs who seem to slip out of everything.
  • It’s especially helpful for deep-chested breeds like ACDs who get frustrated with front-clip harnesses that rub their shoulders or shift off-center.
  • We recommend back-clip or step-in harnesses over front-clips because front-clips can cause rubbing on the legs and underarms, especially for muscular dogs that pull.
  • A back-clip option paired with a martingale collar distributes pressure more evenly, keeping your dog (and your arm) safe.
  • Mimi Green offers matching collar-harness sets in coordinating prints, so you don’t have to sacrifice function for style.

FAQs About Collars for Australian Cattle Dogs

Featured Product: ‘Autumn’ Floral Flannel Dog Collar with Engraved Buckle

What size collar does an Australian Cattle Dog need?

Most adult ACDs fit size M or  ML (12–18″). Always measure your dog’s neck before buying, especially if they’re still growing or change coats seasonally.

Do shock collars work on Blue Heelers?

They can, but they’re a tool that should only be used under professional guidance. Many Cattle Dogs respond better to positive reinforcement and martingale collars.

Can ACDs wear leather collars every day?

Absolutely. Leather is breathable and softens with age. 

Why does my dog chew through collars?

It’s often a fit issue. If your dog can reach the collar with their mouth, it’s likely too loose or the wrong size. A snug, proper fit prevents this.

Should I use a Martingale for a puppy?

Yes, if fitted correctly. Martingales offer safe, slip-proof control while your pup learns the leash. Just make sure to adjust regularly as they grow.

Key Features to Look For in an ACD Collar

A collar is a daily-use tool for your high-energy herder. Whether you’re navigating trails, training in the yard, or walking around town, the right design helps your dog stay comfortable and secure.

Look for these core features:

  • Reinforced Stitching High-tension areas (like the D-ring) should be double-stitched and reinforced. Mimi Green’s collars use strong thread and premium materials to withstand years of daily use.
  • Strong Buckles (Plastic vs Metal) Surprisingly, military-grade plastic buckles often outlast metal ones. They don’t rely on springs, won’t rust, and weigh less, ideal for energetic breeds.
  • Custom Embroidery or Engraving Skip the noisy, snag-prone ID tags. Mimi Green offers engraved buckles or embroidered names that stay put and keep your dog’s ID visible.
  • Soft Webbing for Sensitive Skin Cattle Dogs may develop skin irritation from low-grade nylon. Look for soft materials or collars with rounded, waxed edges, especially around the neckline.

Collar Care & Replacement Tips

Featured Product: Dandelion Floral Dog Leash – Canvas Dog Lead

No collar lasts forever. Here’s when to swap it out, and how to keep it fresh longer.

Active dogs like Australian Cattle Dogs put gear through serious wear and tear. A well-made collar will last longer, but even the best designs need routine checks.

  • Inspect Monthly Look for fraying, stretched fabric, rusted hardware, or bent buckles. High-impact play or strong pulls can degrade gear quickly.
  • Biothane® Maintenance Just wipe clean with soap and water. It won’t absorb moisture or smells, so it’s a perfect match for muddy hikes and lake dips.
  • Leather Care Clean with a damp cloth and apply leather conditioner every few months. Avoid soaking it in water to preserve softness and shape.
  • Replacement Timeline For most ACDs, plan on replacing collars every 6–12 months, depending on activity level. If your dog’s size changes or the fit shifts with coat growth, size up earlier.

Matching Leashes & Add-Ons for Heelers

A coordinated setup isn’t just for aesthetics, it creates a seamless experience for both you and your pup.

  • Leash Length Stick with 4–6 feet. This gives you enough room for movement without sacrificing control. Longer leashes can create momentum that’s hard to manage with strong pullers.
  • Avoid Retractables They’re risky for powerful breeds like the ACD. Retractable cords offer little braking control and may snap under sudden tension.
  • Biothane® Leashes Waterproof, odor-resistant, and made to handle whatever mess your dog finds. They pair perfectly with a Biothane® collar for dogs who live outdoors.
  • Add-On Options from Mimi Green. Match your collar with:
    • Coordinated harnesses
    • Embroidered poop bag holders
    • Custom key fobs or gift-ready sets

Every piece is handcrafted in the USA, so the fit and style feel intentional, not mass produced.

Checklist: What You Need for Your Australian Cattle Dog

Here’s your go-to gear list for a secure, stylish, and adventure-ready heeler.

  • ✅ Martingale collar (or leather/Biothane®)
  • ✅ Matching leash (no retractables)
  • ✅ Harness (Step-In or Easy On)
  • ✅ Engraved buckle or embroidered ID
  • ✅ Collar conditioner or cleaning wipes
  • ✅ Training treats for reward-based walks
  • ✅ Flexible measuring tape (for monthly fit checks)

Having the right setup helps prevent escapes, rubbing, and frustration on both ends of the leash. It also means your gear keeps pace with your dog’s energy, without slowing them (or you) down.

Ready to Upgrade Your ACD’s Collar?

Featured Product: Fi Compatible Leather Dog Collar with Optional Nameplate

When you’ve got a dog who works as hard as an Australian Cattle Dog, you need collars and harnesses that stay secure, don’t irritate their skin, and match their energy, day after day.

That’s exactly what we build at Mimi Green.

  • Custom Martingale Collars Slip-proof, stylish, and made for control. Our martingales are ideal for dogs who pull or slip regular collars, and yes, we make Fi-compatible versions for smart tracking, too.
  • Waterproof Biothane® Sets Whether your pup herds in the mud or hikes through creeks, Biothane® keeps up. It looks like leather, lasts longer, and wipes clean in seconds.
  • Handmade in the USA Every collar, leash, and harness is made to order by our small team. That means custom sizing, personalized embroidery, and materials chosen for strength and comfort, not bulk manufacturing.

If your current setup is rubbing, slipping, or just falling short, we’re here to help you find the right fit, one your dog can wear with confidence and comfort. Most of our collars have been tested by Fox, the red heeler mix and in-house adventure expert featured throughout this article.

Explore our custom collar collections and see why so many herding dog owners trust Mimi Green for style, strength, and secure design.

Carlton Clark