More than 88% of Americans consider their pets to be family members! Some people take to calling their pets “fur babies,” and dote on them like children. If you have a dog, you more than likely view your pet as a part of your family.
Like any family member, you want the best for your pup. That’s why it’s vital to take care when buying dog collars. You want to find a collar that’s comfortable and doesn’t hurt or risk the health of your pet.
In addition, there are a few features that will make your collar the perfect one for both training and recreation. In this article, we’ll be discussing how to pick a collar and the best dog collar features to keep an eye out for. Read on to learn more!
1. Size and Durability
One of the most important features of picking a training dog collar is size. A chihuahua will require a different collar than a german shepherd! Your collar has to fit properly to work properly.
Larger and more stubborn dogs require more stimulation, but for smaller dogs, too much stimulation can be cruel. So, bear in mind that you should pick a collar of the appropriate size and thickness to make sure it fits properly. Check the description of all potential collars to make sure they’re suitable for your dog.
2. Safety Features
Reflective collars make a great choice for your dog, as they can prevent accidents at night. Studies have shown that reflective materials can greatly reduce the risk of car accidents, keeping your dog safe from injury or death.
In addition, your collar should be escape-proof. If your dog can sneak out of it, they could run away mid-walk and get hit by a car or get lost.
3. Waterproof Technology
Dogs love swimming, and they need a collar that’s durable enough to withstand a lot of play. Consider a waterproof dog collar, made out of heavy-duty webbing. The best waterproof dog collar won’t fray or break, even after long sessions in the water.
Similarly, in a waterproof collar, the hardware is heavy-duty so the metal won’t rust, break down, or wear away.
4. Avoid Cruel Features
Many people think that a choke collar is a mild behavior corrector, that will help with the training process. However, because there’s no safeguard to stop the collar from being pulled too tightly, they can be dangerous. Avoid choking collars and collars with spikes on the inside, as they can cause permanent damage to your dog’s neck.
In addition, shock collars can be overwhelming and dangerous to dogs, especially small dogs. While they make okay collars for large dogs, they still risk harming your pet. Opt for a collar with humane features, like gentle vibration or a tone to correct your dog’s behavior.
5. Pattern
Your dog doesn’t care what color their collar is, but you might! A stylish, clean collar looks much better in photos and on your dog than an ugly one.
Don’t be afraid to pick a collar that is both functional and stylish. Try to match your collar to your dog’s leash, harness, or any other dog training gear you have.
You can also find collars with rhinestones and bling that will really make your pup stand out in the dog park.
6. Good Reviews
When buying collars online, you’re taking a gamble on quality. Before buying one, make sure you check the reviews. Real customers will give you the full picture as compared to how dog collar manufacturers describe their products.
Do customers give good feedback about the quality of the collars? Did they wear well, or did they fray and tear? Try to keep an eye out for reviews about dogs of a similar size, so you can assess how comfortable they will be for your pet.
7. Material
The most common kind of material for dog collars is nylon webbing as it’s durable and tough. A tight cross-weave can withstand pulling, water, and even a bit of chewing.
You might have seen metal collars before as well, but these are more for show dogs and less for casual dog-walking. Show dogs need metal collars because they provide a bit more control for the handler, allowing them to navigate the show with precision. They don’t make a great choice for non-show dogs or for going on walks as they can be painful.
Hemp makes for another kind of collar for the environmentally conscious. It’s similar to nylon in terms of durability, although it will wear out slightly more quickly. But, it’s more sustainable!
8. Comfort
Your dog’s review is the most important review. Although they can’t speak, you’ll be able to tell how they feel about their collar. If your dog is shifting, scratching, or seems uncomfortable, try loosening the collar.
If your dog still seems to hate their collar, it might not be the right one for your pet. If this happens, it’s alright! Return it and buy a new one that you and your dog both love.
Start Buying Dog Collars Like a Pro
Now that you know all the best factors to look for when buying dog collars, you can pick up the perfect collar for your pet. A comfortable and stylish collar is key to a happy pet. Keep this article on hand next time you go collar shopping, so you can find the right fit and style!
If you enjoyed learning how to buy dog collars, we have lots of similar tips and how-tos on our blog. Check it out for more!
