About Dog Collars

Function

• A dog collar is an accessory that enables owners to take their dogs out of the house. It is worn like a necklace around the dog's neck and should be secure but comfortable. The collar is also an important training device. When used with a leash, it teaches dogs how to behave in public. If a dog has a habit of running whenever he is taken outside, a collar and leash can be used to keep it within range of its owner. Also, dog collars display dog tags, which should include the dog's name and her owner's contact information, as well as proof of vaccinations from the veterinarian's office.

Types

• Several types of collars are available, and the type of collar a dog wears should depend on his or her size and its amount of activity. A buckled collar consists of a flat strip of nylon or leather that connects around the dog's neck with an adjustable buckle, exactly like a belt. These do not tighten around the dog's neck once they are fastened. Quick-release collars are similar, but they consist of a clasp that snaps into place and is quicker to take on and off. Slip collars and choke chains are used as training tools and they will tighten around a dog's neck if pulled on. These collars can be effective for training, especially if a dog tends to pull his owner when out for walks, but they should never be used on puppies.

Features

• A dog collar should be simple and functional, and it should include a few basic features. A collar will be ineffective unless it has a metal hoop for connecting the leash. This hoop is also used for attaching dog tags. Collars should securely fasten around a dog's neck, either with a buckle or clasp, or a slip ring. Buckle and quick-release collars should be adjustable to fit a range of different size dogs.

Identification

• To meet the needs of fashion savvy dogs and owners, collars come in an assortment of colors and patterns. The most common material used to make collars is a nylon blend, which is soft and comfortable for dogs. Leather is also frequently used and is a good option for large, strong dogs since leather collars will be more resilient to wear and tear. Metal chains are also a common choice for big dogs, especially when they are being trained. Collars can be found with many different patterns, from pirate skulls to princess crowns, and they sometimes have attached accessories. Use caution when purchasing a collar with rhinestones or other such decorations on it, since if they are not attached securely they can be a choking hazard to the dog.

Benefits

• Collars, when used with leashes, are one of the most beneficial items a dog owner can have. An increasing number of shops and even cafes are allowing people to bring their dogs inside with them, as long as the pet is on a leash. Public parks are a great place for dogs to exercise and have fun, but most also have collar and leash requirements. Dog collars enable dogs to visit different places and to run around more freely than they could if confined inside. This helps keep dogs healthy and youthful and provides an opportunity for owners to exercise as well. Also, a dog collar is used to hold tags with owner contact information. If a dog ever gets lost or runs away, it is more likely for him to be returned to its owner if the collar has its name and contact information with him when he is found. Though they are simple, collars add to the overall health and safety of dogs.