How to Choose a Proper Collar for your Dog

When you walk into almost any pet store, one of the first things you may notice is the rows and rows of dog collars. With so many options to choose from, it can be a little overwhelming when it comes to selecting a collar that is comfortable and appropriate for your dog. 

Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a proper collar for your dog: 

 

• The size of your dog’s neck: You want to select a collar that is not too tight around your dog’s neck, but also not too loose that your dog is able to quickly escape. With that in mind, try a collar that when tightened, has enough room for at least two of your fingers to comfortably slide between your dog’s neck and the collar. This will ensure that there’s enough breathing room for your dog, but also make sure it’s not too loose that it can come off. 

• Consider what collar type you want: There are a variety of collars to choose from including: 

• Flat Collar: This is the most popular and widely used collar that you’re probably familiar with. These collars tend to be gentle on a dog’s neck when used properly, but if your dog tends to pull quite a bit, then it’s probably best to look into other types of collars.

• Head Collar: These collars slip over your dog’s snout and attach behind the ears. These are good for redirecting your dog’s attention and prevent them from pulling. However, be careful not to jerk your dog’s head around by abruptly taking control of it.

• Dog Harness: A dog harness is a great option for training puppies, and typically offers better control. It discourages pulling and doesn’t allow dogs to escape the harness, so you don’t have to worry.

• Martingale Collar: These collars are simple and are great for breeds with narrow heads like Greyhounds and Whippets. 

 

When choosing a proper collar for your dog, you want to select a collar that suits your dog’s temperament and body shape and is comfortable for your dog to wear. With proper training, any collar should work as long as you are careful with the way you use it. If you would like to speak to a vet in the Bayside / Whitestone / Flushing area, contact us at North Shore Animal Hospital and we’d be happy to answer any questions!