Choosing the Correct Collar for your Dog

If you own a dog or, more correctly, if a dog owns you, one of the items that you are going to need is a dog collar. In choosing one of these, it is best if you not simply pick up the first thing that you see at the pet store. After all, the collar that is worn by your dog is often going to define him or her in many different ways. Here are some options that are available for you, regardless of whether you are purchasing a collar for your own animal or if you want to give this item as a gift.

The material of the collar is something that does need to be considered. Although you have many different options available to you, one choice that is always going to be the good choice is choosing leather. Leather is comfortable against the dog's skin and also gives the ability for the collar to be decorated so that it can be something that is a bit more unique. Various charms and jewels can be added to the dog collar to help dress it up and to give your dog a little bit of bling.

The size of the collar is also something that needs to be considered as well. You would not want a collar that was too tight for obvious reasons, although some people do make the mistake of thinking that the collar needs to be extremely tight on the dog. As a rule of thumb, you should be able to insert two or three fingers under the collar comfortably. When choosing a collar for a puppy, you should make sure that you are checking it regularly perhaps setting up some type of reminder so that you do it on a weekly basis. Unfortunately, some people have not done this and as the dog grew, the collar ended up growing into the neck. This is excruciatingly painful for the dog and it is an unkindness that is avoidable.

While we're on the subject of getting a collar for your puppy, you may also want to take it a bit slow if the dog seems uncomfortable with the idea. With a little bit of patience on your part, it will grow accustomed to having the collar on regularly.

Although there are many different unique dog collars that are available which can be pleasing to look at, you may also want to consider purchasing one that is specific for training. This could be a harness or a leather collar that is comfortable around the neck. If you're going to use one of these items, it is important that you don't keep the training collar on your dog at all times. Have a comfortable collar for them to wear at other times when they are not being walked or training.

Finally, you may want to consider the manufacturer of the collar. This will not only help you to narrow down the possibilities a little bit, it will also ensure you that you are getting something that is quality. Martingale dog collars are a good choice in this regard, but it really depends upon your personal preferences.


John Jay Booth is the author of this article on unique dog collars such as the Martingale dog collars designed for larger pooches.