How to Adjust a Front Range Flex Collar for a Secure Fit
By Performance Dog Gear | Ruffwear | Published: 2026-11-01
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to adjust the Front Range Flex Collar for a secure, comfortable fit. Follow these simple steps to check tightness, position the V-ring, and keep the collar from slipping.
Quick answer
To adjust the Front Range Flex Collar, slide the buckle to change the length, then check that you can fit two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck. A secure fit stays in place without being too tight.
Why the Flex Collar's knit webbing changes the fit check
The Front Range Flex Collar uses engineered knit webbing that conforms to your dog's neck, so it may feel snugger at first than a stiff nylon collar. That flexibility is comfortable, but it also means you should check the fit after a few minutes of wear, not just right after buckling. The knit can settle slightly as your dog moves, so a collar that felt perfect initially might need a small tweak.
When a two-finger check isn't enough
The two-finger rule is a starting point, but it doesn't work for every dog. For dogs with very thick or very thin necks, or for puppies still growing, use the two-finger check as a guide and then watch how the collar sits during activity. A secure fit should not slide over the head when your dog pulls backward, and it should not leave red marks or rub spots after a walk. If you see either, adjust the buckle one notch at a time.
Step-by-step collar adjustment
- Unbuckle and measure: With the collar off your dog, use a soft tape measure to measure the widest part of your dog's neck, then add about two finger-widths (roughly 1–1.5 inches) for comfort. Compare that to the collar's size range. Write down the measurement so you can recheck it as your dog grows or its coat changes.
- Set the initial length: Slide the buckle along the webbing to set the collar to your measured length. The Front Range Flex Collar uses a traditional buckle and strap, so you'll see the excess webbing after buckling. Make sure the strap lies flat and isn't twisted before buckling.
- Bucke and check tightness: Fasten the collar and try to slide two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck. You should feel slight pressure but not tightness. If you can't fit two fingers, loosen one notch; if you can fit three or more easily, tighten one notch. Check the fit at the back of the neck, not just the side, because the knit can sit differently there.
- Position the V-ring: The aluminum V-ring should sit at the back of the neck or slightly to one side, depending on your leash habits. Make sure the ID attachment point is not under the chin or where it could catch on something. Attach tags to the separate ID point, not the V-ring, to keep the leash ring free.
- Test during activity: Take your dog for a short walk or play session and watch for slipping, rubbing, or excessive loosening. The collar should stay in place without needing constant readjustment. If the collar slides over the head when your dog pulls backward, it's too loose—tighten one notch.
- Recheck after a few days: The knit webbing may settle slightly with wear. After a few days, repeat the two-finger check and adjust if needed. For puppies, check weekly as they grow. A secure fit is one you don't have to think about during walks.
Product facts
- Front Range® Flex Collar: The collar has an aluminum V-ring for leash attachment and a separate integrated ID attachment point. The separate ID point keeps the collar streamlined and reduces bulk, so you can attach tags without interfering with the leash ring.
Front Range® Flex Collar
