Choosing a Dog Collar

If you're like most people, you've probably never given much thought to your dog's collar. I don't know about you, but I certainly don't follow dog fashion! As long as it fits, right?

However, there are some factors to take into consideration that will let you choose the most effective collar for your needs.

The traditional dog collar, made out of nylon or leather, suffices for most purposes. These can be found in a variety of colors and styles to fit any taste, and in most cases are all you need.

When selecting a collar, be sure to get one that fits properly; it should be snug enough that it will not slip off, but loose enough so it does not restrict the dog's breathing. The collar should sit high on the dog's neck without sliding down to his shoulders. A loose rule of thumb is that you should be able to fit two fingers between the dog's neck and his collar; when deciding what size to get, you can also use a tape measure on Fido's neck, then buy a collar that is two to three inches longer.

Warning: puppies grow! I know, dumb sentence...but remember to check as your puppy gets bigger and ensure that his collar isn't becoming too tight!

A dog harness is helpful when you have a dog that pulls on his leash and may have throat problems, as it avoids putting pressure on his throat and trachea as a normal collar would. It can also be easier than a regular collar to hold on to, when needed.

A dog halter is useful with stubborn dogs, as it makes them much easier to control. It consists of two bands, with one going behind the head and the other going around the nose. If the dog tries to pull, it causes his head to go to the side, stopping him; while it doesn't hurt the dog, it does annoy him!

The author's mother uses two of these on her morning walks to control two dogs who collectively outweigh her by 60 pounds. In other words: they really work!