As the days grow shorter and the weather turns cooler, our thoughts turn to celebrating everything autumn has to offer. This is the perfect time for long walks through crisp leaves, cozy sweaters, and anything with pumpkin spice. And, of course, there’s no one better to enjoy fall fun with than your dog!    

If you’re contemplating your own autumn wardrobe upgrades, don’t forget that fall is also a great time to update your dog’s gear, too. A fresh fall collar is the perfect way to bring some seasonal cheer wherever your fall activities take you. 

Looking for a fun-yet-practical Halloween collar that won’t annoy your dog like a full-on costume would? How about a gourd-geous new collar that will make your pup the talk of the pumpkin patch or Thanksgiving feast?

For a festive fall fashion statement, there are plenty of great autumnal dog collars to choose from.   

Our List

Choosing a Fall Dog Collar: Tips and Trends

Dog standing on bench autumn afternoon

While safety is the most important consideration for any dog collar, fun is a close second when it comes to selecting the perfect dog collar for fall. No matter what seasonal trends or fall fashions you’re into this year, it’s easier than ever to find a collar to match.

Some key styles to watch out for: 

Fun Fall-themed Dog Collars – Whatever you love most about autumn, there’s probably a dog collar out there to match! Look for stylish printed or embellished collars featuring everything from a classic autumn leaf motif to trendy accents like pumpkin spice lattes!

Dog Collar Costumes – If your pup is not a fan of playing dress-up, but you still want to include them in your Halloween fun, a dog collar that doubles as a costume can be a great solution. These types of collars tend to be a bit more elaborate than your standard dog collar, but not as restrictive as a full-on costume. For example, you may see dog collars or harnesses featuring a pair of dragon wings or an elaborate pumpkin-shaped collar your dog can wear like a ruff.

Though these collars are typically worn for a single day rather than the whole season, and many are designed to be worn over or added to your dog’s existing collar, safety is still key. If you’re hunting for a costume collar at a Halloween store, be sure to double-check the quality. Does all the stitching look firm, with no loose threads? Are there any elements that could fall off and become choking hazards? No matter how temporary the collar or accent, it hould be designs to keep your pup safe.  

Colorful Fall Dog Collars – If you’re looking for a festive fall collar upgrade that will last long after the season ends, consider a standard collar in rich fall hues like gold, rust, or plum. That way, you can stretch your pet budget further and still give your pup a festive look for fall!   

Best Fall Dog Collars

Your pup doesn’t need to be a furry fashionista to rock a great-looking seasonal collar. From functional collars (with a stylish fall twist, of course!) to decorative options designed for Halloween fun, the choices are endless! So we’ve rounded up eight of our top picks to get you started.  

All featured products are chosen at the discretion of the author. However, Vetstreet may make a small affiliate commission if you click through and make a purchase.

Best Overall Fall Dog Collar

Our Pick: TagPup Personalized Autumn Floral Dog Collar

K and M fall leaves dog collar
Buy at Etsy

If you’re looking for a collar for your dog to wear throughout the season, you might not want something that’s covered in pumpkins, ghosts, or turkeys. (Although if you do, you’ll find some other cute options in TagPup’s Etsy shop!) This stylish, unique collar is a slightly more subtle nod to fall, featuring a whimsical floral pattern in pretty autumnal tones. We love that it’s completely customizable, so you can choose a your pattern, colors, and hardware. There’s even an option to add your pet’s name to a leather patch or metal plate for an additional cost.

Highlights

  • Handmade to order 
  • Choose from three different seasonal colors/patterns
  • Customizable hardware and pet name options
  • Available in multiple sizes

Things to Consider

  • Make sure you follow the ordering and sizing instructions very carefully
  • More expensive than an off-the-shelf option
  • No returns/exchanges

Best Halloween Dog Collar

Our Pick: Thrills & Chills Glow-in-the-Dark Halloween Two-Tone Skeleton Dog Collar

Thrills and Chills fall dog collars
Buy at PetSmart

This is the perfect choice if you’re looking for an extra cute, extra-durable collar for your dog to wear all Halloween season. The black collar is covered in a spooky skull and bones design — and the skulls even glow in the dark! It also comes complete with a decorative bow covered in contrasting orange skulls. What’s not clear is whether the bow is detachable or adjustable, so bear in mind it may not always be visible if the collar slides around your dog’s neck. 

Highlights

  • Available in multiple sizes 
  • Adjustable for the perfect fit 
  • Also comes in other designs 
  • Great price point

Things to Consider

  • Made from very thick webbing that can be hard to adjust  
  • The bow section may slip around your dog’s neck where it’s harder to see

Best Dog Collar Costume for Trick or Treating

Our pick: Rubie’s Pet Shop Superman Cape with Light-up Dog Collar

Superman dog collar
Buy at Baxter Boo

If you plan to bring your dog out trick-or-treating with you, then you definitely need a wow-worthy costume/collar…and this is it! Your pup will look super in this heroic Superman cape. Plus, it comes with an included leash and light-up collar, which is great for safety, visibility, and pure Halloween head-turning style! 

Highlights

  • Officially licensed DC pet accessory
  • Non-restrictive, three-piece costume includes cape, collar, and leash 
  • Fun design 
  • Safety-tested

Things to Consider

  • May not fit pets of all sizes
  • Pricier than other costume collars
  • To be safe, use in conjunction with your dog’s standard collar 

Best Dog Collar Costume for Halloween

Our pick: Midlee Pumpkin & Spider Web Decorative Halloween Collar

Pumpkin spider web dog collar
Buy at Amazon

There’s not much cuter than a dog in a Halloween costume — but if you’re looking for something lighter than a full costume, then this collar is perfect for any Halloween party or outing. The elastic collar is covered with a black tulle mesh ruff, which is decorated with sparkly cobwebs, tiny jack-o-lanterns, and bats. Simply slip this over your dog’s regular (or Halloween-themed!) collar and you’re good to go. This is also available in orange tulle with black witch decorations. Just remember not to attach your dog’s leash, as this is purely for decoration only.     

Highlights

  • Fits up to an 18” neck
  • Non-restrictive 
  • Fun design 
  • Stretchy and comfortable

Things to Consider

  • May be too large for smaller breeds
  • A bit expensive for single-use, but a bargain compared to most pet costumes

Best Thanksgiving Dog Collar

Our pick: Airing Pet Thanksgiving Dog Collar

Thanksgiving dog collar
Buy at Amazon

Celebrations like Thanksgiving are the perfect excuse for swapping out your dog’s collar for something more seasonal. And if your pup isn’t the biggest fan of those adorable turkey or pilgrim costumes, then a Thanksgiving collar for dogs is a great way to let them have some fun without feeling uncomfortable. Covered in a turkey motif and a “gobble ‘til you wobble” motto, your dog will look extra cute wearing this while they enjoy their Thanksgiving dinner.     

Highlights

  • Choose from five sizes 
  • Includes a detachable bow tie 
  • Good value for money 
  • Made from high-quality cotton with rose-gold hardware

Things to Consider

  • Made from light-colored fabric that may show dirt and wear more easily
  • A bit pricey for something your dog is not likely to wear too often 

Best Pumpkin Dog Collar

Our pick: Blueberry Pet Fall Dog Collar

Blueberry pet dog collar
Buy at Amazon

Pumpkins are a quintessential part of fall for everyone! (Not convinced? Try making these yummy pumpkin dog treats and watch your pup go wild!) So what better way is there to celebrate the season with your dog than with an adorable, pumpkin-themed collar? The webbing of this collar features a pretty design with pumpkins and leaves. Bright orange hardware will help your dog stand out in the park, while the detachable pumpkin adds a touch of whimsy.  Blueberry Pet also offers lots of other autumn dog collar designs to choose from — including candy corn, maple leaves, turkey, and jack-o’-lanterns to name a few.  

Highlights

  • Buckles made from eco-friendly plastic 
  • Available in three sizes
  • Detachable pumpkin accent 
  • Washable 

Things to Consider

  • Can be difficult to adjust the size 
  • Pumpkin accent is quite flimsy and may not last as long as the collar

Best Value Fall Dog Collar

Our pick: Mirage Halloween Witches Brew Dog Collar

Halloween dog collar
Buy at BaxterBoo

If you love all things witchy (or you’re a die-hard fan of Hocus Pocus!), this fun collar will make you smile every time you catch a glimpse of it. The durable webbing of this Halloween-themed dog collar is covered with a fun ribbon overlay featuring witches’ feet on an eye-catching orange background. Not only is this collar a great value, it’s also made in the USA with high-quality materials and a hard-wearing buckle. Perfect for any Halloween hijinks your dog gets up to…except chasing black cats. You never know when a cat might just turn out to be Thackery Binx! 

Highlights

  • Made in the USA 
  • Great value for money 
  • Fun design 
  • Choose from two sizes

Things to Consider

  • May not fit small dogs 
  • You’ll probably want to switch this collar out after Fall is over 

Best Fall Fashion Dog Collar

Our pick: PawesomePups Fall Pumpkin, Leaves, and Latte Collar

Fall pumpkins dog collar
Buy at Etsy

If fall is all about golden leaves, pumpkin spice lattes (yes please!), and cozy nights in front of the fire, then this stunning fall-themed dog collar is perfect for the fashionista furball in your life. The decorative fabric features all your favorite fall motifs, and the adorable peach flower embellishment will make sure your dog is the best-dressed pup in town. The seller of this collar on Etsy consistently gets positive reviews for their combination of a great product plus excellent customer service — making for some very happy pups, and their owners!  

Highlights

  • Choose from five sizes 
  • Detachable embellishment 
  • Eye-catching and unique design
  • Lots of positive reviews from previous customers 

Things to Consider

  • Not designed for heavy use 
  • Light-colored fabric may get dirty quickly 

How to Fit Your Dog for a Fall Collar

While it can be tempting to choose fall collars for dogs based on style alone, it’s also important to make sure it fits your dog properly. After all, keeping our pups comfortable, safe, and happy is always the number one priority! 

Most collar manufacturers provide sizing details to help you choose the right size for your dog, and it’s worth remembering that these can vary wildly between brands. Just because your dog is a size medium in their current collar doesnt mean they’ll be the same in another brand. 

To get an accurate fit, you’ll first need to measure the circumference of your dog’s neck. The easiest way to do this is by using a soft measuring tape placed around your dog’s neck where their collar sits. Most dog collars will be adjustable from a minimum to maximum size, so check to make sure your dog’s measurement falls within this range. 

Once the collar is placed around your dog’s neck, adjust it until you can comfortably fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. Most collars have a slider to adjust the size, while others have a buckle.  Before you head out the door with your dog’s snazzy new seasonal dog collar, remember to transfer over any ID tags! 

One final note: Once autumn is over, if you’re putting your dog’s seasonal collar away for storage, give it a wipe or wash first and allow it to dry fully before storing. And when you get it out for next year, make sure to check the fit carefully as your dog’s neck size may have changed, especially if they’re young and still growing.