We’d all like to believe our dogs (dog collar) can remain wild and free; they don’t need to be restrained. We’d like to imagine an existence without limits. Yet, it is a fact that most house pets need some restrains. It doesn’t matter if he/she is well trained and well behaved; the risks are countless. Elimination of risk is a task every house pet owner should take up, and first things first – your beloved Buster is going to need a collar.
This brings us to options. In the twenty-first century, we are bombarded by options, and it is only natural that we extend the same courtesy to our adopted family. When looking for a collar, there is more beyond the simple belted straps. Each collar has its specific uses and allows a dog to have an individualistic experience – from walks to backyards.
Why use Collars or Leashes? | Dog Collar
As primitive as it may sound, the necessity of a dog collar as well as a leash is paramount. Whether you live on a busy street, or have an expansive garden – beyond the shelter of your home your dog is as vulnerable as a child. Similarly he/she is prone to danger. A collar and a leash help keep the risk in check. Furthermore, the collar has a little nook to hang an identification tag.
The need for identification only makes itself of utmost significance, when your well-behaved puppy somehow manages to make a break for it. With their name, address, and contact information- the chances of your dog coming back home, safe and sound increase ten-folds. Some tags also include proof of vaccination against rabies, and your dog may avoid many nasty situations thanks to this little fact.
Beyond, the risk – a collar, and thereby a leash can be used while training your dog. While some collars exist specifically for training purposes, others can still be used. The use of more than verbal commands can help your dog learn faster and more effectively. However, training should not be used as an excuse to create fear in your dog.
#Regular Collars
Flat Collars
Flat collars come in different ranges and types, and are the most easily available, routine kind of collar. They are usually crafted out of nylon, stitched and use relatively stronger materials. They don’t break easy, and can be custom designed to come with flair and style. The collars are easy to slip on over your dog’s head without much effort, and include quick release closures for use.
A rule of thumb is to leave some space to give your dog space to move comfortably. The flat collar also includes a ring to attach identification. Flat collars are standard fare that can be upgraded; they allow both the dog as well as the owner leeway and space for movement, and are efficient.
Martingale Collars
Martingale Collars are a step above the flat collar, available at standard pet stores. When your dog has a slender neck and a feisty temper, he or she is more likely to slip right out of a flat collar and bound off in the other direction. A martingale collar is designed with this in mind. It has rings at both ends, attaching strong material together, and another strip of tough material running through both the rings. The leash is attached to the second ring of your dog’s collar. When your canine attempts escape, the properly adjusted martingale collar gently tightens around the dog’s neck without hurting him or her.
Head Collars
A Head collar is available at a standard pet store, and it is mostly intended for use with strong, obstinate dogs that do not listen to reason. However, the head collar is more restraining than the flat collar or the martingale, as it also has an attachment that goes around the muzzle. When the leash is pulled, the muzzle is controlled. A head collar is good for training purposes, as it will teach your stubborn dog who the boss is.
#Aversive Collars
Collars are often used as punishment, or the exact absolute control. These are called aversive collars, and come to you in these types. A word of caution – people rightly believe that these collars should be considered in the rarest of rare cases, and only when the dog in question poses threat to the well being of those around it. Otherwise, there’s no reason to even think of inflicting pain upon your dogs with any of these collars. Consider the next section more as a snapshot of the crazy dog-collars available in the market, rather than an endorsement of any sort of violence towards animals.
Choke Collars
A choke collar basically looks like a thin chain. It comprises of a strong cord looped within the rope itself. It works along with a leash, tightening itself as you tug on the leash. The difference between a choke collar and a martingale is that the choke collar lives up to its name, its purpose being to choke the dog and force him/her to relieve the tension. The choke collars should never be used on fragile breeds with slender necks and are generally only used on the larger dogs that exhibit aggression.
Pinch/Prong Collars | Dog Collar
The pinch collar is also known as the prong collar and is made up of metal links that form the chain. The links can be added or removed from the chain till it fits the dog’s neck. The links however have prongs that cause sharp pains if a dog doesn’t loosen the tension. A few silver rings attach these links to a leash. While the metal may look classy, the pinch/prong collars are rather painful and not recommended for dogs with slender, fragile necks. They should also be used only for training purposes.
The No-Bark Collars
Before we begin endorsing the no-bark collars it is important to note that none of them are humane. The no bark collars are used more to benefit the strict needs of the masters rather than the dogs themselves. None of these no-bark collars address the actual issue, instead focussing on reducing annoying elements such as barking. The actual reason for barking is not looked at. No-bark collars also work mostly in theory, as using them to punish dogs renders the canines non-functional due to the pain, both physical and emotional. We hope you’re not cruel enough to get a pair of these for your dog.
Spray Collars
Considered the most humane of the spray collars, the collar releases a non toxic substance on the dog’s face when he/she is barking. The collar has a sensor to monitor the barking. This association of spraying with barking, in theory is said to reduce his/her barking.
Sonic Collars | Dog Collar
It is common knowledge that dogs can hear far better than a human. This quality can be turned against them with the use of a sonic collar which senses barking and immediately emits a high-pitched painful noise. This high-pitched noise cannot be heard by humans. This association, also in theory, is said to reduce barking.
Shock Collars | Dog Collar
The Shock collars are a rung above all the other devices of absolute control. It sits on the dog’s skin and activates when it senses motion akin to barking. However, instead of a high-pitched noise it sends out an electrical shock. The shock levels can be adjusted, and the collar can be tested on humans. The shock-collars are considered the most atrocious of machines used on animals.
Leashes
Beyond the collars, there must always be the combination of a leash. A leash should not only fit well in your hand, but also provide mobility and ease of access. There are three types of leashes that can be attached to the collar of your dog.
The Flexi Leash
The Flexi Leash is the standard dog leash and has these iconic plastic handles. They are mostly used during walks, explorations and other relaxed activities. When a greater control is necessary, a different leash should be considered.
Leather or Nylon Leash
The leather or nylon leash is a simple leash with a clip on one end and a loop on the other. These are the kind that are easy to slip on, have good mobility as well as provide control.
Chain Leash
Chain leashes are the classiest looking leashes, but they also have their downsides. They are difficult on the dog’s teeth if chewed, and the leash itself is heavy and harsh on your hands. Other than these, specialty chains are available for the fancier crowd. They include the Hands free Leashes, Double Dog leashes, and the Reflector leashes.
