Dog Collars
Collars are used on dogs to both control and identify them. This article discusses the basic uses of the dog collar, the importance of choosing the correct size and the types of dog collars available to owners that may be applied to dog breeds with specific needs.
Dog collars - size and control
Control of the dog using a collar is by the use of a dog lead attached to a D ring on the collar by a clasp or at times by using the collar to take hold of the dog by hand. It is important when choosing a traditional style dog collar to ensure there is sufficient space between the collar and dogs neck to insert at least two fingers. This gap provides sufficient room to take hold of the collar when needed and also prevents the collar restricting the dogs movement and breathing.
Certain dog collars such as dog check collars, half checks and check chains need in some cases (those without buckles) to be large enough to slip over the dogs head before they are finally adjusted, this is particularly important when choosing a solid check chain with no buckle available to facilitate direct attachment around the dogs neck.
Dog Collars - Identify your dog
The use of the dog collar to identify the dog can either be carried out by attaching a hand written or engraved dog tag to the collar or alternatively choosing a dog collar with an integral metal plate that is suitable for engraving the collar itself. It is strongly recommended that all responsible dog owners have their dogs identity chipped as soon as possible to ensure their pets safe return should they accidentally stray and loose their collar.
Types of dog collar
Traditional Style dog collars
The traditional dog collar consists of a length of leather or fabric and incorporates a buckle at one end to facilitate adjustment and fastening. These dog collars come in a huge variety of types and designs to suit both the personal preference of dog owners and the direct needs of the dog. Common variations include traditional leather dog collars which may be plain or studded together with fabric dog collars in an endless selection of colours and designs. Securing this style of collar around the dogs neck can be carried out by either a pin type buckle as found on trouser belts or push fit connection like fasteners found on rucksack straps.
Whippet and Greyhound collars
Dogs with long slender necks, for example, the Whippet and Greyhound require a special dog collar that is much wider than conventional dog collars. This extra width provides the normal functions of the traditional dog collar whilst supporting the dogs neck with minimal pressure exerted on the vertebrae.
Rolled or round dog collars
Dogs with long fur and thick coats can benefit from rolled or round dog collars as some people call them. This type of dog collar is normally leather and has the edges rolled together and stitched to form a ring like collar. Rolled dog collars make minimal contact with the dogs fur thus preventing the dog fur becoming flattened or entangled and damaged. The rolled dog collar is a great favourite amongst dog owners that show their dogs.
Chain link dog collars
These dog collars consist of anything between two and five rows of chain link that form the main body of the dog collar. The collars are finished with a leather or fabric section where the adjustment and buckle meet to facilitate the fastener. This type of collar is attractive in appearance but not really practical for longer coated dog breeds where there is a risk of fur becoming trapped or entangled between the links.
Full check dog collars or check chains
The full check collar for dogs or check chain as it is otherwise known is generally used to help control dogs that pull owners when out walking. These very simple check collars consist of a length of chain with a large ring at each end. By threading the chain section through one of the larger rings a running loop of chain is created that can be slipped over the dogs head. The dog lead is then attached to the larger ring at the other end of the check chain to complete the dog collar and leash. These check collars will continually tighten around the dogs neck as they pull against the dog handler and should therefore only be used with caution and a clear understanding of correct technique. Dog collars of any kind that consist of a chain link section should always be made using welded links. This adds strength to the collar and reduces the risk of trapping fur between the links and joints.
Half check dog collars
Many dog handlers and dog trainers have now turned away from the full check collars in favour of the half check dog collars. The half check dog collar works on a similar principle as the full check. The difference between the full check and the half check is that the half check dog collar is adjusted to set limitations which control the extent to which the collar can tighten. Half checks are normally manufactured from nylon or leather and available to fit dogs from tiny puppies to the largest of dog breeds.
Dog training collars and head harnesses
To try and discuss the vast array of dog training and controlling collars and harnesses available in the current market would be quite at task. Most commonly used head collars now include the Gentle Leader and Halti with many similar products now being improvised and introduced to the retail industry. Most work on a similar principle which involves offering resistance to the dogs nose rather than the dogs neck. Many large animals such as Horses and bulls are controlled by this area of the head to overcome their great strength and power. This principle is now widely implemented in the development of dog training collars such as the Gentle leader and Halti.
Dog slip leads
Whilst this article is fundamentally about dog collars one should not leave out the inclusion of the diverse and superbly useful dog slip leads. These unique tools provide the answer to many dog handlers issues by providing the most simple solutions. The dog slip lead is basically a dog lead with a running loop at one end. The loop is used as the collar section of the lead and is attached to the dog by simply slipping the loop over their head. The running loop will fit any size dog and provides a simple check collar solution that is extremely quick and easy to fit. This type of dog lead and collar combination is highly favoured by many gundog enthusiasts and professional dog walkers.
Slip Leads - find slip leads for sale
Leather dog collars - find leather dog collars for sale
Fabric dog collars - find fabric dog collars for sale
Padded dog collars - find padded dog collars for sale
Check collars for dogs - find check collars for your dog today
Dog training collars - find training collars for sale to fit all dog breeds
