Dog Collars come in so many different types and styles that deciding on the right one may be almost as difficult as voting for your favorite canine breed. The first consideration is your pet's safety.
Next come specifics such as durability. This factor varies according to your dog's activity level and also its breed or size. A sturdy collar for a Chihuahua would not last long on a Chow. Keep in mind any specific uses for the collar. If you are buying a collar mostly for show, you will want a different kind than one used for training purposes.
Safety factors to keep in mind when shopping for dog collars include their being structured to make them escape proof and yet release when caught on something that might strangle your dog. Many companies manufacture safety collars. An additional safety element is night time visibility. You can find collars that glow in the dark to help cars see your pet if you happen to be taking them for a walk out in the dark.
Matching the dog's activity level to the strength of the collar is important. Super strong collars for larger animals and those that try to lead on the leash can be found across the internet and at many local pet stores. They are often made of leather, but strength can also come in heavy webbing and other materials. While not needed for more docile animals or those whose size lets their humans maintain control, very strong collars are a blessing for people with powerful dogs.
Show collars are most often made of metal. They give greater control to dog handlers who must obtain immediate responses from the animals they are showing in the ring. For pet owners who simply want their dogs to look their best, there are many different colors and materials available. Some owners choose favorite colors of their own. Others like the collar to coordinate well with the dog's coat and eye colors. Collars with extra bling such as ornamental rhinestones will dress up your dog with a little more flair and fun.
Training collars include everything from the interlocking metal-ringed ones of the show ring to bark collars, tracking collars, beeper collars, and other electronic varieties. Choke chain collars will help you control older pets, but are not advised for puppies. Nylon is a good choice of material for a puppy's first collar since it is lightweight and washable. Older dogs who enjoy the water may be good candidates for nylon collars as well. With so many choices of dog Collars available, a caring pet owner can have a lively time making the right decision.
