Choosing the right dog collar for your pet isn’t the most important thing you’ll ever do, but it may make your life easier!
One of the first things that you need to buy for a new dog is a collar. This inexpensive accessory plays an important role in your pet’s training.
It will provide you with:
- A means to control your dog
- Correct their actions
- Keep them within your line of sight
- Prevent them from getting into places you don’t want them
Here are a few tips on choosing the best dog collar for your specific pup!
Choosing The Best Dog Collar
Adopting a furred companion is a big responsibility.
In addition to caring for and disciplining your dog, you also need to make sure that all their needs are provided for.
This can require a significant investment. You’ll need to set aside money for pet food, vet bills, as well as items and accessories that your canine companion might need to live a safe, healthy, and happy life.
Using custom dog collars can help you give a detailed description of your dog in case they go missing.
Alternatively, you can attach an ID tag to your dog’s collar so that anyone can contact you should they spot your lost dog.
That said, though dog collars are adjustable, they are not one-size-fits-all. These accessories come in different sizes, shapes, colors, materials, and designs.
How do you choose one that’s perfectly suited to your dog?
Here are a few factors you should consider.
1. Types of Dog Collars
Flat collars are the standard option for most puppies and dogs, no matter the level of training that the canine may have undergone.
It’s easy to see why, as flat collars are easily adjustable and come in all shapes and sizes.
However, take note that this type of collar is ideally used for pups that have been trained out of instinctively pulling on their leash and those that are disciplined enough to go off-leash where it’s safe to do so.
The dog collar pictured on the right is one of the Amazon bestsellers, having sold over 32,000 units. This design stops dogs from pulling and choking while on their lead.
It comes in a range of sizes and colors.
Some dogs, on the other hand, may be better off using different collar designs while training, such as one of the following types of collar.
Martingale collar
This collar is designed to prevent dogs from slipping and tightens around the dog’s neck when they start to pull.
Chain slip collar
With this model, the training collar features a chain loop at the end.
It is best used by experienced trainers who can exercise restraint and not damage the dog’s neck.
Halter or headcollar
Halters go on the dog’s neck and muzzle and are designed to help train dogs to walk on a leash and to heel.
Harness
Placed around the chest and abdomen, harnesses are preferred by pet owners that deal with pullers and dogs that have delicate necks and airways.
Metal prong collar
This harsh-looking training collar is often used for training strong, stubborn dogs with a tendency to pull.
2. Proper Sizing
It’s always a good idea to choose a collar size that’s best suited to your pet, even though most collar designs offer adjustable sizes.
Though your puppy will definitely grow bigger over time, it’s still important to get a collar that fits them at their current size.
A collar that’s too big can allow your pup to slip and escape and retrieving an off-lead dog can be tricky depending on its training. While a collar that’s too small can irritate the dog’s skin and impede their breathing.
When fitting, place two fingers between the collar and the puppy’s neck to ensure that there’s enough room for movement.
3. Material
Dog collars can be made of inexpensive yet sturdy materials like nylon, metal, or a combination of the two.
Some owners prefer to give their pups the deluxe treatment and order custom leather collars for them.
Personal preference is a big factor when deciding on a material for the dog’s collar.
Whatever you choose, make sure that your puppy is relaxed and comfortable while wearing its collar and that the material will remain intact even if it’s subjected to different activities and rough play.
4. Safety Features
What activities do you see yourself doing with your pet?
Are you planning on trekking, hiking, or running, or even using a dog bike lead? Will you be doing a lot of water play?
Consider these activities when deciding on a collar for your dog.
Also, try to look for models that offer additional safety features for your pet while you’re engaged in various exercises and adventures.
If you’re going to run with your pup after dark, it’s a good idea to get a collar and other dog accessories that reflect light. This can make your dog more visible to others.
If you’re trekking and going off-leash often, consider getting a collar with a tracker so that you know exactly where your dog is at all times.
5. Dog Care Training Collar
Over time, your furred companion will grow, mature, and develop better self-discipline.
These changes may require you to change your dog’s collar to a more suitable one.
When that time comes, remember these factors when shopping for a new collar.
By doing so, you’ll have an easier time picking out a model or designing a custom dog collar that reflects the current needs of your dog.
Also, don’t fall into the mindset that your dog can only be comfortable with one type of collar.
If you’re into different activities, then it’s perfectly fine to buy multiple collars and put on the one that is best suited to your pup’s agenda for the day.
Finally, if your dog has worn you out, stop thinking about what it’s going to eat.
Test out one of these great dog food delivery services. The less you have to think about the better!