Fashion Has Gone To The Dogs: Designer Dog Collars Express Personality

Is it just me or has a dog's life gotten progressively better over the last 20 years? Growing up, things were much different. Dogs slept in the backyard, not on the living room sofa. They ate table scraps, not organic, vitamin-enriched kibble. And, they wore a simple strap of nylon around their necks instead of fancy dog collars. Oh, to be a dog in today's society!

Somewhere over the last two decades, our thinking about pets has been radically altered. Instead of something we own, dogs are part of the family. Americans, especially, appreciate the individual personalities each pet has, and we long to give them the best of everything from food to fashion.

Fancy Dog Collars Trade Plain for Panache

Designer dog collars burst onto the pet landscape several years ago in answer to a cry from pet parents who wanted choices. Tired of ordinary leather, rough nylon or chain collars, K-9 companions needed something downright fancy. Dog collars crafted from handmade silk, French jacquard ribbon and other specialty materials were just the ticket for owners and their dogs to stand out and be unique. Dog collars made of such fabric allowed greater expression of both the dog's and the owner's personalities because of the endless variety of available colors and patterns.

Designer dog collars began to spread throughout the pet community until every pooch wanted something cute and creative. Don't be fooled. These unique dog collars are functional in addition to being fashionable.

Types of Designer Dog Collars

Just because you look good doesn't mean you can't perform well, too. Better-made designer dog collars are created from first-quality materials and have an anatomy suited for long-term wear and reliability. These collars are available for every aspect of a dog's life from everyday wear up to serious training exercises.

Martingale collars (humane choke collars) were originally created for breeds whose heads were smaller than their necks. Due to their humane aspect, they've increased in popularity with owners of all breeds.

Side-release collars (the typical type of collar found in pet stores) are also widely available in designer patterns and colors for pet parents who want their babies to look good and be safe. And, for those occasions where fashion is everything, slip-on collars are great bling!

Safety and Comfort Rule

Lightweight webbing is the hidden core of better-made collars and adds strength to these fashion statements. The application of satin lining is an important step that greatly improves comfort. Superior hardware (buckles), bonded nylon thread and various stitching techniques make collars dependable and strong enough to hold even the largest breed safely, even as he lunges forward to greet his friends walking by. But, it's the fabric that makes designer dog collars unique.

Prissy? Sociable? Adventuresome? Sassy? Whatever your dog's personality may be, you'll find designer collars to match. While you're shopping for that new heated, orthopedic bed, don't forget to pick up designer dog collars for every occasion. Your K-9 kid will be the talk of doggie daycare and the bell of the ball.