How to Tie a Christmas Ribbon Bow for Your Dog's Collar
By UPCO Pet Supplies | Small Business Pet Shop in St. Joseph MO | Published: 2026-10-23
Category: How-to Guides
Learn to tie a festive ribbon bow on your dog's collar this holiday season. Step-by-step instructions with tips to keep it secure and comfortable.
Quick Answer
You can tie a simple, secure ribbon bow on your dog's collar using a basic loop-and-knot method that won't slip or choke. Choose a festive ribbon like the Red Valentine’s Day Ribbon with White Heart Outlines for a cheerful holiday look.
Choosing the Right Ribbon for Safety and Style
Not all ribbons are pet-safe. Look for a ribbon that is at least 9/16 inch wide so it holds its shape without being too bulky. Avoid ribbons with loose wires, small beads, or sharp edges that could irritate your dog's neck or be chewed off and swallowed.
The Davis Red Valentine’s Day Ribbon with White Heart Outlines is a great choice for the holiday season. It comes on a 50-yard spool, so you can make multiple bows, and the deep red color with white heart outlines adds a festive touch without being overly flashy.
When to Skip the Bow
Skip the bow if your dog is a heavy chewer, prone to swallowing fabric, or if the collar will be worn unsupervised. A bow is a decorative accent for short, supervised wear — not a permanent accessory. Always remove it before your dog goes to sleep or plays with other pets.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Cut a Length of Ribbon: Cut about 20 inches of ribbon. This gives you enough to form a bow and tie it securely around the collar. A common mistake is cutting too short — you can always trim excess, but you can't add length back. Aim for 20 inches; err on the side of longer.
- Step 2: Form the First Loop: Hold the ribbon horizontally. Bring the right end over the left to form a loop about 3 inches in diameter. Pinch the center where the ribbon crosses. The loop should be even on both sides — an uneven loop makes the bow lopsided. Check that both sides of the loop are equal in size.
- Step 3: Make the Second Loop: Take the left tail and fold it back over the center to create a second loop on the opposite side. You now have two loops and two tails. Keep the tails about 4 inches long for a balanced look. A common mistake is making the tails too short, which makes the bow look stubby. Tails should be roughly 4 inches for proportion.
- Step 4: Secure the Center: Wrap a thin piece of matching ribbon or a twist tie tightly around the center where all four ribbon segments meet. This holds the bow shape. Do not use wire or string that could scratch your dog's neck. A common mistake is wrapping too loosely — the bow will fall apart. Wrap tightly but use a soft material.
- Step 5: Attach the Bow to the Collar: Slide the center of the bow under the collar's D-ring or between the collar and your dog's neck. Tie the two tails in a simple knot around the collar, then trim any excess ribbon. Make sure the bow sits flat against the collar and doesn't dangle. A common mistake is tying it too tight — you should be able to slide two fingers between the collar and your dog's neck. Check for two-finger clearance after tying.
Product Used in This Guide
- Red Valentine’s Day Ribbon with White Heart Outlines 50 YD Roll: 9/16 inch wide x 50 yard spool, deep red color with white heart outlines. The width is ideal for a neat bow that stays put, and the long spool gives you plenty of ribbon for multiple bows or future projects.
Red Valentine’s Day Ribbon with White Heart Outlines 50 YD Roll
