Information on Leashes & Collars for Dogs

Collars and leashes come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. Collars can carry your contact information in the event your dog gets lost. Training collars offer various means of controlling your dog to encourage learning. Leashes can be purchased in any length, but some trainers recommend a particular length to promote control of the animal. There are two main materials used for collars and leashes that both have pros and cons. Retractable leashes are a new and popular item.

  1. Collars

    • A collar should fit loosely enough that you can fit several fingers between the dog's neck and the collar but snugly enough that it won't pull over his head and come off. This is important as ill-fitting collars can dig in to a dog's neck and in severe cases become embedded requiring medical attention to remove. Check the fit of a collar on a young dog regularly to avoid problems. With older dogs, checking the collar periodically is a good idea to find wear and tear before the collar breaks. If your contact information is on the collar, it won't do the dog much good if he becomes lost and his collar breaks.

    Training Collars

    • There are several kinds of training collars. The most traditional is the choke chain, so named because when pressure is applied to the lead, the collar will tighten around the dog's neck. Another popular style is the pinch collar. This collar has pronged links that lay flat but stand up and pinch when pressure is applied to the lead. The final type is the halty. This collar is actually designed more like a horses halter and is worn on the head of the dog. When pressure is applied to the lead, it simply pulls the dog's head in the direction of the pressure but does not pinch or choke the dog.

    Leashes

    • Leashes come in every length, width and material imaginable for the needs of every dog owner. The length and width of the leash most often corresponds to the size and strength of the dog it is used on. A tiny chihuahua will not need a thick heavy leash that might be ideal for a German shepard. Many trainers suggest no more than a 6-foot leash as they suggest keeping your dog closer to you for more control.

    Materials

    • The most common materials for both collars and leashes is either leather or nylon. There are distinct advantages to both as well as aspects that should be considered before purchase. Nylon does not break and can take some time to chew through, however it can become very stiff over time. Leather will not last as long as it is a natural material that wears out over time. Leather products are also far easier to chew through. Leather can be more expensive but is also seen as a little higher end to some people.

    Retractable Leashes

    • Retractable leashes are popular with many dog owners. The basic premise is that the length of the leash, for example 20 feet of cord, is coiled up in a cassette that can be extended to allow the dog to investigate at will or recoiled and locked into position to keep the dog close at hand. These come in many lengths and strengths to accommodate different types of dogs.