The collar is very thin. I guess I just never really bothered putting one on him and that is why he feels constricted. I think I am going to stick with trying a harness on him - - have heard too many horror stories about collars for these little pups. In the next couple of months we are going to travel with him and I just want him to sort of get used to the fact that he has to wear one for safety reasons. Thanks for your input.