When you are a pet parent, safety is a major concern. You will prefer to give them everything for their safety. So, if you have a dog or are planning to bring one, make sure to be aware of wearables such as dog collars. This is the foremost thing to be considered for your pet's identification and safety.

Dog collars are made of different materials and are available in different styles, colors, and features. With multiple choices, picking up the right one is not as easy as it looks. So, here we some important tips to help you choose a suitable collar and understand the importance of dog collars.

Tips to Choose the Right Dog Leashes and Collars

Go through the below tips to purchase the best dog collars and leashes;

Get the Right Collar or Leash Fit

You need to ensure that the collar fits properly on your dog’s neck. Make sure it is comfortable because an ill-fitting collar with stiff material can cause discomfort. Keep in mind that the collar must not restrict your dog’s movement. It must not cause any kind of scratch or irritation to them due to improper fit. Moreover, wrong collar fit can lead to injuries. Dogs left outdoors may face strangling or choking if their collars get caught on objects such as fences while trying to escape.

Meanwhile, loose collars can entrap a dog’s teeth or limbs, potentially causing serious injuries. Tight collars can stick to the neck skin, causing irritation, fur loss, and even infection. Therefore, it is advisable to remove collars at night as it will let the skin breathe. Therefore, you need to choose the right fit for Dog leashes and collars with the necessary adjustment features.

Consider Breed and Temperament

It is very important to consider your dog’s breed and temperament to choosing a dog collar. Breeds that have slender necks and smaller heads, for example, greyhounds, must go for a martingale collar. This collar type prevents anxious breeds from slipping away. If you own a German shepherd, a head halter collar will be the best, as they are huge and energetic.

A body harness is a common option for small breeds or dogs that have sensitive throats. However, a harness can make dogs more likely to pull on the leash since they do not experience tension around their necks. In such cases, front-hook harnesses can be beneficial and will be an ideal choice. With the leash attached at the front, they provide better leverage for the handler and require less strength to control the dog. Make sure to keep your dog’s body built and follow walking etiquette to make the perfect choice.

Training Your Dog Is Necessary

Check out Does your pup walk nicely on a leash, or does it tend to struggle and pull to get its way? Some dogs often pull their collar or leash, and they may not like it when they are newly introduced to it. This is why they require training. You can go for training collar options, such as a harness or martingale. Before purchasing, consider your training objectives and challenges. Always remove training collars and harnesses when your dog is unattended or left alone at home. This is because it may result in injury.

After you get the new dog safety collar, train them to use it for a few days. See how they are responding to the collar and considering it in their everyday life. Especially during outdoor activities, notice their movements with the collar. Accordingly, you can go for the new type.

Go for Water Resistant Dog Collars

A water-resistant dog collar offers several advantages for both pets and their owners. First, it ensures durability, preventing damage from moisture, whether from rain, swimming, or everyday activities. This feature is especially beneficial for active dogs that love outdoor adventures or water play. It maintains the collar's integrity and appearance. Additionally, water-resistant collars are easier to clean, reducing odors and dirt buildup. They also provide peace of mind during walks or hikes near water sources, knowing the collar won't suffer from exposure to moisture.

Moreover, many water-resistant dog collars are made from breathable materials, ensuring comfort for your dog in various conditions. Overall, investing in a water-resistant collar enhances your dog's safety and comfort while prolonging the collar's lifespan.

Make Sure the Collars Don’t Cause Neck Injuries

Even when correctly fitted, collars can still pose a risk of neck injury if your dog pulls on the leash or is tugged along. The pressure exerted by the collar on the neck during pulling can lead to injuries such as 'whiplash' or nerve damage, affecting different organs such as the thyroid gland, trachea, lymph nodes, and esophagus.

This pressure can also exacerbate respiratory issues in brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds and cause abnormal increases in eye pressure. A recent study using a simulated neck model found that no collar type can effectively prevent pressure injuries in dogs that pull on the leash. This highlights the recommendation for ‘loose-leash walking’ using a front-attaching harness.

Training your dog to walk on a loose leash or making them not get pulled harshly is safest when using a front-attaching harness paired with a double-ended leash. This connects to both the front and back. These harnesses are highly recommended as training aids and are preferred over traditional ‘head collars’ that cover the muzzle, leading to neck discomfort and injury.

Final Thoughts

Dog collars are an essential everyday accessory for your dog. One of the primary functions of a collar is identification. Apart from identification and training, they also make a great fashion statement. If you want to move a little further, you can add a microchip to maximize safety. It also increases the chances of being reunited if they get lost. Collars can also provide a quick way for others to access their name and contact information. This is helpful for emergencies.

You can teach your little pup to walk and explore the outdoors with leashes and collars. So, if you are looking for the right place to shop for dog collars, check out the DOCO Pet® store online. The store has the best quality collars with diverse options.