The canine world is increasingly evolving as are the accessories and necessities that go along with it, and one of the most important purchases you will make as a responsible pet owner is buying a collar for your dog.
Many people see a collar for their furry family member as a hindrance to their freedom but they’re actually essential for most dogs.
Dog collars were first introduced as early as 8000 years ago when Egyptians would wear them as decoration and as a way of identification. However, it wasn’t until later that the Ancient Greek farmers would add spiked collars to their farm dogs to protect them from wolves biting at their throats. This then led to the domestication of collars for pets.
Why should your dog wear a collar?
Collars are not there to serve a simple decorative function but have an important role in that they help owners and others to identify their pet, but it also has their details attached. A collar will have all relevant vaccine records, an owner’s contact number, name, and license attached to the collar at all times.
If your dog runs off or, in the worse case gets involved in a fight, he can easily be traced back to his owner. This is particularly true if he’s wearing one of the best GPS dog collars which allow you to track them on your phone.
Another main reason why dogs need collars is so their leash can be attached to them while out in public. It allows you to better train your pup and adjust their behavior when needed with gentle tugs and releases of pressure on the collar. You can keep them close to you in stressful situations.
While wearing a collar when outdoors in public spaces is the general rule, it does not mean they should wear it non-stop. Time off the collar and leash is recommended so the dog becomes familiar with times that require better behavior and begins to associate the collar with obedience.
A dog should never be allowed to sleep with a collar to prevent any mishaps, also constantly wetting the collar from washing or playing in the sea or pool can lead to chafing and the fur rubbing off, ultimately leading to infection.
Choosing the right collar
As a pet owner, it is important to know what is needed for proper care of your canine, and choosing a collar is not as simple as going to the shops and purchasing a great color. Ideally, a few factors should be taken into consideration before, and at the time of purchase to help determine which collars for your dog are best, let’s see what they are;
- Width – Even if your dog is a smaller breed a wider collar is always recommended as it is safer, more comfortable, and won’t dig into your dog’s neck.
- Flat – There are essentially 3 types of collars: Flat, Rolled, and Standing. Most vets will recommend the flat version, this adds to comfort but most flat collars come with quick-release, easily adjustable buckles for saving removal or putting on.
- Layers – A double-layered collar (most without added cushioning) can add unnecessary pressure to your four-legged friend’s neck, rather choose a single-layered collar.
- Size – It is important to measure your dog’s neck regularly for the correct size collar, even more so if they are a new pup growing quickly. You can easily do this by loosely measuring their neck with a two-finger space gap between their neck and the collar to allow some movement, freedom, and flexibility.
Choosing quality
Spending a fortune on a collar does not necessarily mean it is the best, but you do want something of substance that will last longer than a month and is a bit higher quality. Opt for a material that is not stiff, has a decent level of flexibility, and is most importantly lightweight. The last thing your dog needs is to carry extra, unwanted pounds, and certainly not on their necks.
Another point is to pay that little bit extra for a leather collar. Leather is a more durable, breathable material, whereas others such as nylon have abrasive edges that are stiff and can cause a lot of friction on the skin.
A final thought
At the end of the day you have taken on the responsibility of becoming a pet owner, and your furball deserves the best of treatment as a member of the family. So, making the effort to do your research and buy the most suitable collar for your dog is a small part to play for their unconditional love.
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