Choosing the Right Collar for Your Dog

Have you recently adopted a new canine pal? Congratulations! One of the first things you’ll need to purchase for your pet is a collar. Every dog needs to have a good collar. It’s important for you to find the right one. The question is, how do you know what collar you should choose? There are certainly a lot of options out there. Read on to find out more about how to pick the right collar for your canine companion. 

T  he Importance of the Collar

Your canine buddy’s collar is important for their safety. First of all, it’s what, via the leash, connects you to your dog. This gives you control over your pooch’s movements, and can help you prevent him from darting away from you, perhaps into the street or toward another animal. Even the most well-trained pups should always wear a collar and leash while going on walks outdoors, just to be safe.

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

Types of Collars

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

There are also various types of training collars, such as choke collars, prong collars, spray collars, shock collars, and more. These are best avoided, as they should only be used by professionals. Be sure to check with your veterinarian or a professional dog trainer before using a collar of this type on your dog. 

Sizing and Fit

As far as size, there’s one general rule of thumb to follow. You should easily be able to fit two fingers between your dog’s collar and their neck. If you can’t, the collar is too tight. Remember that a collar that fits a puppy will be too small by the time little Fido is grown. Be sure to check the fit of your dog’s collar frequently to make sure it’s 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 dog.