Choosing the Right Collar for your Dog
My-Dog.info > Getting a Dog or Puppy
There are many restraints available for dogs from your
veterinarian or pet store. The equipment should be sturdy enough
so that it will not break if the dog lunges suddenly. It should
also be comfortable for the pet, and only apply sensation when
pressure is applied. They should be fitted and sized
appropriately. Avoid oversized collars that will slip off or that
have long dangling ends, or tight narrow collars that apply
continuous pressure around the neck.
Common materials used in the manufacture of these products
include synthetics (like nylon), leather, metal chain, or vinyl.
If the dog will wear the restraint around at all times, like a
regular buckle collar, it should be easy to clean, soft and
flexible, and break if snagged on a fence, branch or other
prominence. Leather is still a first choice because it meets
these criteria, but leather products tend to be a bit more
expensive. Leather is a bit less durable, but with proper care
and cleaning a good quality collar and leash will last for years.
Some leather collars even come in snazzy colors like the nylon
sets, but watch for potential dye washout into the haircoat in
white or light coloured dogs.
With puppies, pay regular attention to the fit because they
grow so quickly. Remember to let out the collar or replace it
with a larger model, because especially in dogs that have very
thick, long fur it may not be obvious. A couple of fingers should
slip in between the collar and neck, but when pulled towards the
head, it should not slip off over the ears.
Halters are an excellent product, and recommended over choke
collars for dogs that are inclined to pull or head for the hills
when you (or your child) are at leash-end. The halter apparatus
fits snugly over the head and when pressure is applied, it
tightens around the muzzle. Controlling the dog by muzzle
pressure mimics their mother's control methods, and is highly
effective and very humane. They are not left on, but for big
strong energetic dogs, these are definitely the first choice for
walk time. Halti™, Promise™, and Gentle Leader™
are some sample products in the North American market.
Choke collars are the type of collar that slides on a metal
ring so that when pressure is applied on the leash, the collar
tightens. Though this is helpful for a dog that pulls, they are a
strangling risk if it is left on when the dog is unattended. They
should be fitted so the collar does not pinch the skin during
traction. Chain collars are more likely to pinch than nylon.
Collars with metal extensions that press on the neck during leash
pressure are the most severe collars, and are not generally
recommended. Properly leash training the dog will usually
circumvent the need for extra control. Obedience classes are a
great place to refine the response of the dog to commands.
Harnesses that place pressure on the back and chest area
rather than the neck are often used for working (sled) dogs, and
for dogs that have neck problems (like disk disease). These
sturdy harness products sometimes are fitted with side packs for
those who take their dog on hiking excursions and want their dog
to pitch in and carry a little load too! For those dogs that are
well leash trained and not inclined to run off after squirrels or
other dogs, these provide good control and protect the neck from
pressure. Many people place these on toy dog breeds to prevent
pressure on the windpipe that can lead to coughing.
Consult with a dog trainer, breeder, or your veterinary health
care team for specific recommendations.
Reprinted with permission from www.animalhealthcare.ca
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