Choosing the Right Collar for Your Dog

If you’ve recently welcomed a new dog to your family, one of the first things you’ll need to purchase for your new pet is a collar. Every dog needs a good collar, and it’s up to you to select the best one. The question is, how do you know what to choose? There are certainly a lot of options out there. Below, a Pelham vet shares how to choose the right collar for your canine companion.

The Importance of the Collar

Your dog’s collar is essential for safety purposes. First of all, it’s what attaches the leash to your dog, providing control over your pooch’s movements and preventing them from darting away from you, perhaps into traffic or toward another animal. Even the most well-trained pups should wear a collar and leash while going on walks outdoors, just to be safe.

Collars also provide a place to house your companion’s ID tags. These small items are crucial for getting your pet safely returned to you in case they run away or get lost. Most Pelham vets recommend using collar tags and a microchip implant in tandem for maximum identification potential.

Types of Collars

There are all sorts of different collar types available. Most common is the standard flat collar, which is typically made of nylon but could also be crafted from leather or other materials. There are also Martingale collars, also referred to as limited-slip collars, which are useful for dogs with slender necks, such as Greyhounds and Whippets. Martingale collars tighten if your dog gets too close to slipping out of their collar.

There are also several types of training collars, which might be helpful depending on your dog’s behavior. There are choke collars, prong collars, shock collars, spray collars and more. Be sure to check with your Pelham vet or a professional dog trainer before using a collar of this type on your dog.

Sizing and Fit

Here’s the general rule of thumb to follow: you should easily be able to fit two fingers comfortably between your dog’s collar and their neck. If you can’t, it’s too tight! Remember that a collar that fits a puppy will be too small as they grow larger. Be sure to check the fit of your dog’s collar frequently to make sure it still fits properly.

You’re not alone in the search for the perfect collar. Contact your Pelham vet’s office for advice on the best choice for your dog.