As a nation of pet lovers, we like to think we are always giving our pets the best care. From belly rubs, treats, and products such as Big Dog pet food, to regular check-ups and grooming, we are always doing what we can to keep our dogs happy and healthy, but what about dog collars? Many pet owners actually believe that their dog is not required to wear a collar, especially if they are microchipped. However, it is in fact a legal requirement for your dog to wear a collar with a tag whenever it is in a public place. Below we explore the benefits and drawbacks of collars and why it is important to choose the right type for your pet.

Benefits of dog collars

The main benefit of dog collars is that they allow dogs to be identified in public. This means a lost pooch can be safely returned to its rightful owner. It also means that the dog’s owners can be contacted in the event of an emergency. However, you must understand that not all dogs are meant to be collared, especially the ones who have medical issues such as glaucoma or a history of neck injuries. For a case such as this, it is best that you consult an expert veterinarian (like the ones here), to know the best alternative for your furry four-legged friend.

Also, you would find dog owners who do not have the practice of putting collars on their dogs while indoors. This could either be because they are highly trained and do not need a leash, or to grant them some amount of freedom when it comes to their comfort and movement. Should the unfortunate circumstance befall them where they would lose them in a public place, or if they would run away, they would have to conduct a widespread search for them. In addition, many people may not have the practice of microchipping them. This would require them to manually conduct a search for them. They would have to approach printing houses to do a same day print of fliers, in order to distribute them and fasten that search.

Using collars, in conclusion, would prove to be an effective way to keep your dogs close and prevent them from getting lost.

Collar Do’s and Don’ts

Do attach a tag to your dog’s collar including your name/phone number and home address.

Don’t put your dog’s name on the collar. This will make it easier for dog thieves to call and keep your dog should they ever go missing.

Do choose the correct collar style for your dog:

As we all know, no two dog breeds are the same and just as humans of different shape and sizes require different clothing styles, dogs of different breeds need different collars. Sighthound breeds for example such as greyhounds, whippets and lurchers require special sighthound collars. Said collars are specially designed as not to harm the sight hounds delicate neck, should they make sudden movement while on a lead. Some sighthound collars are also designed to prevent the collar slipping off, as sighthound breeds have narrower heads than they do necks.

For other breeds, it’s important that you pay attention to what your dog is comfortable with. Some dogs will happily wear almost any style of collar, while others may need something wider or with padding to feel comfortable. collars designed to cause your dog discomfort or even hurt your dog are advised against by all animal welfare charities and organisations. If you feel swayed to use a prong, choke, spray, or electric collar to correct your dog’s misbehaviour, speak to a trusted dog trainer or your vegetarian for alternative and non-harmful advice. You could find reliable Dog Training In West Sussex or wherever you live from a number of pet services. A dog collar is a good thing, but it should not be torture for your dog.

Don’t make your dog’s collar too tight

For a comfortable fit, you dog’s collar should be tight enough so that you can’t fit your hand through it, but loose enough so that you can fit your thumb underneath.

Do take your dog’s collar off once in a while

When you and your dog are at home in a safe, secure environment, take their collar off for a while and give them a good neck scratch! Just remember to put it back on before you leave the house.