Dog Collars Explained!

There is a great variety of dog collars available on the market - almost as many as there are breeds of dogs! But how do you know which collar is best for your dog? This article examines some different types of collars.

Buckle collars, as the name suggests are tied by means of a buckle. These dog collars are usually made of nylon, cotton, or leather. They are either flat or rolled collars and are adjustable. However they don't tighten on the dog's neck after they are tied. Rolled leather collars help to avoid chafing and hair damage caused by flat designs.

Quick-release collars are flat nylon buckle collars that have a plastic fastener that enables you to slip the collar on and off easily. These dog collars are adjustable and won't tighten around your dog's neck once tied.

Break-away collars are quick release dog collars. When the collar is given a sharp tug it will come loose. However the collar won't come loose when attached to a leash. One aim of this collar is to prevent choking in the even that your dog's collar becomes hooked on any object.

Nylon slip collars come in a variety of styles. They are also called 'chokers' or choke chains. These dog collars are made of braided nylon, cotton or leather and 'o' rings. The collar is looped through one ring forming a 'P' shape. A leash can be attached to the ring beneath the P so the collar can be loosened or tightened depending on the pressure from the lead.

Metal show collars are thin slip collars often used in the show ring. These dog collars are often made of braided nylon, cotton, or leather, or hex or serpentine metal chain.

Limited slip collars are like slip collars and quick-release collars rolled into one. They are fully adjustable dog collars and will tighten around a dog's neck within safe limits. If your dog tends to pull out of his collar this is a good design.

Martingales are like limited slip collars without a buckle. These dog collars slide over the dog's head and a piece of plastic tubing can be slid down until it is as tight as you need.

Choke chains are metal training slip collars. They are often used in the jerk & praise training methods - but have been shown to cause neck, back, and tracheal injuries in dogs. These dog collars should be used with care and proper technique during training.

Prong or pinch dog collars are used like choke collars but are a safer alternative. Since these collars can wear and become stretched it is recommended that a second collar be worn. It should never be used on puppies.

Other dog collars you may consider using are head halters, harnesses and electronic collars. Whichever collar you choose make sure you know how to use it properly and that it cannot injure your dog in any way.