Dogs are a man’s best friend and they fill our lives with so much joy and happiness. Most people who have pet dogs literally care for them like their own child, right from feeding to bathing to taking them on walks. One of the most important accessories you purchase for your beloved pet dog is its collar.

It may sound easy to purchase one, but when you enter a pet store, you’ll definitely get confused by the wide range and options available. Some people prefer nylon while some opt for leather dog collars for their furry friend. The following post will guide you on how to choose the right collar for your dog, ensuring its safety, comfort, and style.

Guide to Choosing the Right Collar For Your Dog

There are several things you need to consider when purchasing a collar for your dog. First and foremost, your dog’s breed and growth will play a major role in making your choice.

The type of material that is comfortable for its fur, size, style, color etc. should also be considered. Keep the following things in mind when you visit a pet shop to buy a dog collar.

Consider Your Dog’s Breed & Measure Its Neck

The most vital factor that you need to consider when buying a collar is the breed of your dog and its neck size. Large breeds like Pitbulls and Great Danes need a stretchable and wide collar, while small breeds like Pugs and Poodles prefer narrow and lightweight collars. 

The circumference of your dog’s neck will help choose a collar with the right and comfortable fit which is neither too loose nor too tight.

Choose the Right Width & Collar Size

Again, choose the right collar width and size depending on the breed of your dog, its growth, and comfort. A wide collar is great for bigger dogs and it also adjusts itself when such breeds grow rapidly.

A narrow, small-sized collar fits perfectly on small dog breeds, ensuring comfort and free movement without pain. With the right collar size, your dog won’t feel discomfort and will be happy to wear it.

Opt For the Right Collar Material

The most common materials used for dog collars include lightweight nylon, soft and durable leather, padded neoprene, etc. Braided leather dog collars age well and are highly durable. Nylon is versatile, easy-to-clean, and ideal for most small dog breeds. 

If your dog has a narrow neck, then neoprene collars provide cushioning and padding. Just make sure that the collar material you choose does not irritate your dog’s skin and is not hypoallergenic.

Look For Stylish Colors & Styles

Every dog has a unique personality and you can choose a collar that matches it. White or black dog collars are simple and look good on most breeds. You can go for vibrant, bright shades that match your dog’s coat and provide a coordinated look. 

Other than color, you’ll also find many classic styles and trendy patterns that will make your dog look super stylish and cute. Just make sure you don’t compromise safety and functionality no matter which color or style you choose.

Look For Modern Safety Features 

Nowadays collars come with a plethora of safety features that enhance safety and protection for your dog. Some of them feature LED lights or reflective strips that offer visibility when walking your dog in low-light conditions.

Most of them have name tags where you can add contact information so people can get in touch with you if your dog ever gets lost. Some collars are scratch-resistant, some are waterproof, and some have anti-odor properties.

Different Types of Dog Collars

The following are some different types of dog collars that you can choose from for your pet :-

Flat Collars –  Flat leather dog collars are the most common, available in many different patterns and colors. They are easily adjustable making them ideal for everyday use and walking.

Body Harness –  A harness is not a collar technically and is wrapped around a dog’s body. Perfect for dogs who pull a lot, harnesses distribute pressure evenly across the chest and reduce neck strain.

Choke & Prong Collars –  When a dog pulls excessively, a choke collar tightens around its neck to stop the pulling. Similarly, the prong collars have plastic or metal prongs that put more pressure and inflict pain on the neck when a dog starts pulling. Some professionals use them for training but they are not recommended for your pet dog.

Martingale Collars –  Perfect for narrow-headed dogs like Whippets and Greyhounds, these collars tighten when the dog pulls so that they don’t slip out.

Head Collars –  This type is wrapped around a dog’s muzzle and behind its ears. The owner gets better control of the dog’s head and it helps train dogs that pull excessively.

Conclusion

With such a huge range available, it is hard to find the perfect collar for your dog. Right from simple and flat black dog collars to colorful ones with high-tech features like GPS and LED lights, you have lots of options to choose from. 

Your dog’s breed and its neck size should be the first thing you consider before purchasing a collar. Also, check out the different types, and keep the above-mentioned tips in mind when buying a collar for your beloved, adorable pet dog.