While some dog owners cannot resist the urge to put shoes, T-shirts and other accessories on to their furry friends, many dog owners simply prefer to put dog collars with a tag around the necks of their pets while being walked on a leash. Nowadays, the designs and styles of collars for dogs are as plenty as canine breeds. Some owners who would like to make their dogs look fashionable may settle with designer dog collars that are overlayed with sparkly stones, while others who are aiming to fit their pets with an edgier look may pick collars that have spikes protruding from the band. Although the dog owner's personal style is a good factor to consider when choosing the perfect collar for their dogs, the end choice should always be based on what is safe, durable, and comfortable for the dog.
Among the variety of choices available in the market, dog collars that are made from nylon webbing are considered the safest, most durable, and comfortable for dogs. Such dog collars are great, simply because they are strong and can be easily washed if they become dirty. While leather collars are also durable, they easily get wet, soiled, or stained, and overtime will smell and deteriorate. Canvas and denim collars are also good choices as they are easy to wash, but not as durable as that of collars made from nylon webbing.
Aside from the three aforementioned factors, you must also understand that there are dog collars for specific situations. Dog harnesses, which go around the neck, shoulders, and behind the front legs are recommended for dogs with respiratory disease or throat diseases as these collars relieve the pressure on the throat whenever a dog pulls on the leash. A Halter-type dog collar is ideal if you want to have the best control over your pet since the collar is designed like a horse's halter, with the band going around the back of the head and around the nose. Chain-slip dog collars or 'choke collars,' on the other hand, are considered effective as training and retraining tools. These are suitable for strong-willed dogs, those that do respond to training when using standard collars, and those that pull when on lead. Meanwhile, pronged dog collars, which feature blunt prongs protruding inward from the links, are designed for stubborn pullers. They serve as temporary training tools to change the behavior of dogs that do not respond to any other type of collar.
Your pet's size is another vital factor to consider. Smaller, lightweight dog collars are suitable for small breeds and puppies, while wider and more durable styles are recommended for bigger dogs. Additionally, every collar you own or you intend to purchase should have a smooth and rustproof nametag that will contain the name of your pet, your name and address, and a phone number, if you desire. In the event that your dog becomes lost, it will be easier for the person who finds him or her to contact you.