The Wide Leather Sighthound Collar is a leather collar with a wide profile and buckle closure, shaped for long, elegant necks. It is designed for greyhounds, Italian greyhounds, whippets, lurchers, deerhounds, Afghan hounds and dachshunds, spreading contact more comfortably than a narrow strap. If you are looking for a wide leather sighthound collar in the UK, it comes in five colours and three sizes from £11.99.
Anyone who shares their home with a sighthound knows they are built differently. Long necks, fine coats and slender heads make them beautiful to look at, but they also mean an ordinary collar is not always the best fit. This guide explains why wide collars are so popular with sighthound owners and how to choose and care for one.
Why sighthounds suit a wide collar
Long necks need more coverage
Sighthounds such as greyhounds and whippets have long, slender necks. A narrow collar concentrates contact on a small strip of the neck, while a wider collar spreads that contact over a larger area. That is the main reason wide collars have become a favourite among sighthound owners.
Heads that are narrow compared with the neck
Many sighthounds have heads that are not much wider than their necks, and sometimes narrower. Fitting the collar correctly, snug but comfortable, is especially important for these breeds. Owners of nervous or rescue sighthounds often choose to use a martingale collar or a well-fitted harness for walks as well; if you are unsure what is best for your dog, ask your vet or a sighthound rescue for advice.
Fine coats and thin skin
Sighthounds typically have short, fine coats. A smooth leather collar with a wider profile is a popular choice for these dogs because it sits neatly against the coat.
Which breeds is this greyhound collar for?
The collar is designed for long-necked breeds, including:
- Greyhounds, including retired racing greyhounds settling into family life
- Italian greyhounds
- Whippets
- Lurchers, a much-loved British crossbreed
- Deerhounds
- Afghan hounds
- Dachshunds, whose longer necks also suit a wider collar
Because the collar comes in sizes S, M and L, there are options across many of these breeds, though it is always worth measuring your own dog rather than going by breed alone. Individual dogs vary a great deal, particularly lurchers.
How to choose and fit a whippet or lurcher collar
Measure first
Use a soft tape measure around the widest part of your dog's neck where the collar will sit, usually in the middle of the neck. Allow room for two fingers to slide comfortably underneath. Compare that measurement with the sizing shown on the product page before choosing S, M or L.
Check it will not slip over the head
Once fitted, gently try to ease the collar forward over your dog's ears. If it slides off easily, tighten it by a hole. Comfortable but secure is the goal.
Choose a colour you love
- Black: classic, smart and suits every coat colour.
- Pink: soft and pretty, lovely on brindle and fawn coats.
- Green: a countryside favourite.
- Red: bold and easy to spot at a distance.
- Sky Blue: fresh and bright, striking on black or blue coats.
Think about the whole walking setup
Sighthounds can reach impressive speeds in seconds, so a reliable lead matters as much as the collar. A simple leather lead such as our Braided Leather Training Lead pairs naturally with a leather collar. Keep sighthounds on lead in unfenced areas unless you are confident in their recall.
Specifications at a glance
- Product: Wide Leather Sighthound Collar
- Material: Leather with a wide profile
- Closure: Buckle
- Designed for: Greyhound, Italian greyhound, whippet, lurcher, deerhound, Afghan hound and dachshund
- Colours: Black, Pink, Green, Red or Sky Blue
- Sizes: S, M or L
- Price: From £11.99 (S from £11.99, L £13.99, M £15.99)
- Delivery and returns: Delivered across the UK, with 30-day returns
Caring for a leather sighthound collar
Leather is durable and handsome, but it lasts longest with a little care.
- Wipe after walks. Remove mud and moisture with a damp cloth.
- Dry naturally. Never dry leather on a radiator or by the fire, as it can crack and stiffen. Leave it at room temperature instead.
- Condition now and then. A small amount of leather conditioner every few months keeps the leather supple and comfortable against your dog's neck.
- Avoid soaking. If your hound loves a swim or a muddy ditch, take the collar off beforehand where it is safe to do so.
- Check regularly. Look at the buckle, holes and edges for wear. Replace the collar if the leather is cracked or a hole is stretched.
Sighthounds in the UK winter
With their thin coats and low body fat, many sighthounds feel the cold, and dark winter walks call for extra visibility. A reflective accessory can help your hound be seen on early-morning and evening walks. If you jog with your whippet or lurcher, a waist-worn option such as our Hands-Free Dog Lead with Waist Bag adds reflective detailing and keeps your hands free.
Frequently asked questions
Why do greyhounds and whippets wear wide collars?
Their long, slender necks suit a wider collar, which spreads contact over a larger area rather than concentrating it on a thin strip.
Which breeds is the collar designed for?
Greyhounds, Italian greyhounds, whippets, lurchers, deerhounds, Afghan hounds and dachshunds.
What colours and sizes are available?
Black, Pink, Green, Red and Sky Blue, in sizes S, M and L.
How much is the sighthound collar?
Prices start from £11.99, depending on size and colour.
How should a sighthound collar fit?
Snug enough that it will not slip over your dog's head, with room for two fingers underneath. Check the fit regularly, especially with a new rescue hound who may gain weight as they settle.
Give your hound a collar made for their shape
Elegant, comfortable and designed for long necks, the Wide Leather Sighthound Collar is a natural choice for greyhounds, whippets, lurchers and their long-necked cousins. Choose your colour and size, and enjoy UK delivery with 30-day returns.