Decoding the Double-D-Ring

The double d-ring feature tends to be one of the more complex choices we see folks make when shopping for a collar. So, we decided to help out by writing a bit about the pros & cons.

What is an extra d-ring? This is a feature we offer where a secondary d-ring is placed at the center/back of the collar, which ends up being at the top/center of the collar when the collar is being worn by your dog. This d-ring is in addition to the primary d-ring that is made into the collar by the buckle like any traditional dog collar. Double d-rings are added by affixing the d-ring in between the base collar and top layer with Chicago screws on our double layer collars. On our single layer collars we use a small piece of leather on the inside of the collar riveted into place to hold the second d-ring (example = Princess Collar).

PLEASE NOTE: We can add or remove the extra d-ring feature from any collar design!

The PROs of adding an EXTRA D-RING:

You paid for bling, so keep it front and center! The extra d-ring feature allows you to keep your collar "forward facing" while using a leash. This means you do not have to spin the collar around to use a leash, the buckle will stay down under your dog's chin and the bling will stay on top where you can show it off!

If you use a training tool such as a prong collar, Halti, Gentle Leader or other head harness device, we suggest "backing-up" your gear in case your training tool gives out. We have a whole blog post about this topic; BABY GOT BACK-UP. We also make a few leashes to help with backup - Easy Backup Leash & Double Ended Leash.

The CONs of adding an EXTRA D-RING:

On smaller sized collars/dogs we suggest skipping the extra d-ring because it just takes up too much room. Again, you are paying for bling, so the more space we have for the collar design the better. Some of our smaller collars have been designed to accommodate the extra d-ring, such as our Prana and Princess collars, but for most smaller collars we say SKIP IT!

Multiple dog homes my want to consider dropping the extra d-ring in the name of safety. While we have never heard of a dog getting caught up on another dog's extra d-ring, it seems like it could happen. Just something to think about if you have multiple dogs. Again, our dogs wear double-d collars and have never had a problem, but you know your dogs best and should consider your dogs' activity trends when choosing the right gear.

Safety first! If you have a ranch dog or dog that spends a great deal of time outside unattended we suggest NOT adding an extra d-ring. With working breeds it is best to keep things low profile to mitigate any possibility of the collar becoming caught on something while your dog is working or running around outdoors.

Form over function... We try to work the extra d-ring feature into the design on most of our collars, but sometimes it is just nice to see a design without that big fat d-ring at the top of your collar. Extra d-rings are a great tool, but if your dog spends most of the time off leash while wearing the collar, we say skip the extra d-ring and rock the full design!