Choosing the Right Collar for Your Dog

If you’ve rec ently adopted a canine companion, one of the first things you’ll need to purchase for your pet is a good collar. But how do you know what to choose? There are certainly a lot of options out there. Read on to find out more about choosing the right collar for your canine companion. 

The Importance of the Collar

Your dog’s collar is very important for his or her safety. First of all, it’s what attaches the leash to your dog, giving you control over your pooch’s movements and preventing them from darting away from you, perhaps into the street, or running toward another animal. Even the most well-trained dogs should wear a collar and leash when going on walks outdoors, just to be safe.

Collars also provide a place to house your pups’s ID tags. These small items are crucial for getting your pet returned to you in case they ever run away or get lost. Most vets recommend using both collar tags and a microchip implant for maximum identification potential. 

Types of Collars

There are all sorts of different collar types out there to choose from. Most common is the standard flat collar, which is usually made of nylon, but could be made of leather or other materials. There are also Martingale collars, which are also known as limited-slip collars, which are useful for dogs with slender necks like Greyhounds and Whippets. Martingale collars tighten if your dog gets too close to slipping out of their collars. 

There are also various types of training collars, which might be needed depending on your dog’s behavior. There are choke collars, prong collars, spray collars, shock collars, and more. Be sure to check with your veterinarian or a professional dog trainer before using a collar of this type on your dog. In general, these should be used by professionals, or in extenuating circumstances.

Sizing and Fit

Here’s the general rule of thumb to follow: you should easily be able to fit two fingers between your dog’s neck and collar. If you can’t, it’s too tight! Remember that a collar that fits a puppy will be too small by the time little Fido is all grown up. Be sure to check the fit of your dog’s collar frequently to make sure that it is comfortable.

You’re not alone in the search for the perfect collar. Contact your vet’s office for advice on the best choice for your canine pal.