Choosing the Correct Dog Collar
When shopping for a dog collar you can be bombarded the excessive amount of options available. Many coming in different colors and sizes, some even having extra details like gems or even spikes. With so many choices it can be difficult to choose which is the right one. Besides basic appearance, other variables like the sizing and what it will be used for. The way a collar fits your dog is one of the most important elements, the collar cannot be to small otherwise it can cause discomfort or even harm. On the contrary it also cannot be too large, or else the dog can slip out of it defeating the purpose of a collar.
The size of the collar should be the number one thing to keep in mind when shopping for a dog collar. Firstly, you should always measure the circumference of your dog’s neck. To aid in buying the best dog collar, it’s recommended that you add 2-2 ½ inches to the measurement of their neck. This ensures that there will be more room if necessary and also helps you have control when putting the collar on your dog. Besides the length you also have to consider the width of the collar. Depending on the dog size you will want to either get a thinner one or thicker one. Make sure that the width is in proportion to your dog. You wouldn’t want to put a ½ wide collar on a Great Dane nor place a 5 inch collar on a chihuahua that would completely restrict their movements and make activities like eating and drinking difficult.
The different uses should also aid in determining which collar is right. Aside from the traditional collars, other ones such as harnesses, chain slip, halter, and prolonged collars have specific uses. A harness wraps around the dog’s neck and legs, this limits the amount of pressure on a dog’s neck and gives the owner more control. They are especially recommended for dogs with respiratory problems. Chain-slip or choke collars are used for training as a retaining tool. They are most used in dogs who like to pull and take the lead or used on dogs that do not respond well to traditional collars. Halter dog collars give owners the most control and resembles that of a horse halter. The collars allow you to have control of the dog’s head by wrapping around the its head, snout, and chin. This can be one of the most uncomfortable collars for dogs and are not recommended unless dealing with an aggressive canine. There are also prolonged collars also known as pinched collars are used for stubborn pullers. They are not meant to be used long term but rather as a temporary training tool.
Overall it is best to choose what is best for your dog despite the designs that look the best to you. Once again, the collar needs to be comfortable and correctly fitting. Collars need to be comfortable because they will be wearing it continuously.