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A dog collar is used mainly for control of your dog but other purposes include identification and fashion. Some people put their own medical details on a tag attached to their dog’s collar in case of an emergency. It is normal to have a leash attached to the collar for better control. Training collars help to teach a dog good behaviour and polite manners while out walking. If used incorrectly these collars can cause serious injuries or even the death of a dog. When your dog already knows the basic training and responds well to your commands, then the simple,  everyday flat leather or nylon collars work very well. The type of dog collar you pick depends on the breed, size and temperament of your particular dog.

There is a huge variety of dog collars made from different materials which come in many wonderful colours. It is very important to fit your dog’s collar correctly. If you are unsure how to do it, then ask in the pet store, a veterinarian or a professional dog handler. For the correct fit, measure your dog’s neck with a measuring tape just below his head. The tape should lie comfortably close to your dog’s neck but not tight. Allow another two inches for a big dog and one inch extra for a small dog. With a correct fitting collar you should be able to easily fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck and only one finger for a small dog. Bring the tape measure with you when choosing a collar, as dog collar manufacturers often measure their collars differently.

Collars for dogs:

The leather dog collar can be worn daily. It comes in lots of beautiful designs which are very comfortable for your dog and you get great value for your money. There is the flat collar which is suitable for most dogs or the rolled leather collar for dogs with thick fur on their necks. Be aware, if your dog spends time with other dogs they may have a tendency to chew on the leather so inspect the collar on a regular basis. Usually comes in a buckle type.

The nylon dog collar is hardwearing and inexpensive. It is a comfortable, everyday collar and comes in a choice of colours and designs. For the fashion conscious, there is a designer dog collar, pink dog collar, rhinestone collar, spiked collar, personalized dog collars, themed collars and even reflective collars for walking at night. There seems to be an almost endless choice. These collars can be buckle or plastic snap type.

The break  away collar allows a dog to break free of his collar when a certain amount of force is applied. It is a good collar for dogs running through fields alot, as they could get strangled if caught or snagged in branches. 

The stretch collar is much the same as an everyday nylon collar. It has an elastic panel inserted which stretches enough to allow an entangled dog get free from danger. It is used in the normal way with a leash attached.

Dog tracking collars are mainly used for locating hunting dogs but other uses include Search and Rescue or when owners like to take their dogs camping or hiking. This collar works well on dogs that like to roam alot. There is a transmitter on the dog’s collar and the owner carries the receiver.

The Gentle Leader and Halti are head collars which fit behind the dog’s ears with a strap going across his muzzle. A dog can easily drink or eat while wearing these collars. They give great control of the dog’s head which controls his body. Used correctly, there is no pain or discomfort for the dog. When using either of these collars for the first time it is strongly recommended that proper instruction is obtained from a qualified dog trainer. Most dogs find the head collar strange and uncomfortable at first but with patience and positive reward he will wear it with no objections.

The prong collar is used alot on large, hard to handle dogs with attitude. It is made up of connecting links with metal prongs which pinch a dog’s neck when pressure is applied. This collar requires little effort to operate. It can do harm and cause pain if fitted or used incorrectly. The collar must always be removed when the dog is not being supervised. For the comfort and safety of your dog, get the help of a professional dog handler on how to use it. Always give your dog time to get accustomed to this collar and reward with treats.

The choke chain or slip collar is the most common training collar. A length of leather, nylon or chain with rings on each end makes up this particular collar. The handler gives the dog a correction by pulling and tightening the collar and very quickly releasing it on the dog’s neck. Some people practice on how to use it by putting it onto their own arm. A person can learn how it feels and how much pressure to apply. Never leave a dog unsupervised while it is wearing a choke chain. Small dogs can develop neck and trachea problems from this type of collar. If it is not fitted properly the collar will not release which will cause the dog to choke. Get correct fitting advice from a dog trainer or veterinarian.

A martingale collar is a form of choke collar. It is comfortable for a dog and lies flat on the dog’s neck. When pressure is applied it will only tighten to the size of the dogs neck so it has limited constriction. It will not choke the dog and will not slip off over his head. Like all training collars they must be fitted correctly with the advice and instruction of a professional dog trainer or veterinarian.

A dog harness is fitted onto the dog’s body, around his chest and abdomen, then part of it crosses over the dog’s back. A leash is then attached to it. Harnesses cause less discomfort for dogs with neck or breathing problems. There is less control on a dog using the harness and it can encourage pulling.

What ever collar you decide to buy, get expert advice from a professional dog handler and have it fitted correctly, for your dog’s safety and comfort.