If you’ve recently welcomed a new dog to your family, one of the first things you’ll need to purchase for your pet is a collar. Every dog needs a good collar, and it’s up to you to find the right one. But with so many options, how do you know which to choose? Read on as a Grayson vet shares some valuable insight about choosing the right collar for your canine companion.
T he Importance of the Collar
Your dog’s collar is an important safety precaution. First of all, it’s what attaches the leash to your dog, giving you control over your pooch’s movements and preventing them from darting away from you, such as into the street or toward another animal. Even the most well-trained dogs should wear a collar and remain on a leash while going on walks outdoors, just to be safe.
Collars also provide a place to house your dog’s ID tags. These small items are critical for getting your pet returned to you in case they run away or become lost. Most Grayson 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 on the market today. Most common is the standard flat collar, which is usually constructed from nylon but could also be crafted from leather or other materials. There are also Martingale collars, also known as limited-slip collars, which are helpful for dogs that have 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 a number of different types of training collars, which might be needed depending on your dog’s behavior. There include such options as choke collars, prong collars, spray collars, shock collars, and more. Be sure to check with your Grayson veterinarian or a professional dog trainer before using a collar of this type on your dog.
Sizing and Fit
As a general rule of thumb, you should easily be able to fit two fingers 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 by the time he or she has grown larger. Be sure to check the fit of your dog’s collar on a regular basis to make sure it’s still comfortable.
You’re not alone in the search for the perfect collar. Contact your Grayson vet’s office for advice on the best choice for your dog.
