There are 4 aspects to consider when choosing collars:
Style & Configuration
The style and configuration of your dog's collar can make a big difference in their comfort. For instance, dogs with thick and/or fluffy necks, they might prefer to wear a martingale or slip collar.
Flat Collar
For dogs who don't slip out of their collars easily or have any other special requirements with a collar.
Braided Collar
Another version of a flat collar. It is rounded at the edges and has double thickness to be more supportive.
Martingale Collar
For dogs who slip out of their collars or need extra room to be more comfortable. Helpful for dogs with thick necks or dense coats (husky, golden retriever). Or dogs with narrow heads (greyhound, dachshund).
Slip Collar:
Similar to the martingale collar, but with a different closure design. Not meant to be used as a choke collar.
Buckle Closure & Hardware
Closures and hardware can affect the safety and function of your dog's collar.
Side Release Buckle
Some side release buckles open easily with a small amount of pressure when you are holding your dog's collar. Look for closures that stay closed and aren't really easy to open.
Center Bar Buckle
(post and hole)
This is one of the most secure designs for collar closures.
Adjustable Slide
Adjustable slides can move and shift, depending on the construction and material of the collar. If the slide keeps moving, use a strong needle and thread to put a stitch through all layers of material at the slide - to hold it in place.
Width
Finding the right width for your dog is important. Something too thin will create excess pressure along your dog's neck. Something too wide will feel uncomfortable and make it difficult for your dog to lay down, etc.
Not too thin for the neck:
Wide enough to be comfortable and provide supportive:
Material (comfort, support & rigidity)
The material of your dog's collar makes a difference in how they experience pressure on their collar. When you have to hold them still or hold them back, they should be wearing a collar with comfortable and supportive material.
NOTE: the material also impacts your ability to effectively handle your dog. If the material is too flimsy, it will be difficult for you to maneuver your dog well. A material with stiff edges can cause you discomfort when you are handling your dog and holding them by the collar.
Novelty collars and alternative material collars aren't always designed with your dog's comfort and support in mind.
Some materials, such as biothane or rubber, can be very stiff and have very rigid edges, which can create pressure and irritate the neck.
Some collars have stitched on embellishment. The stitching can create an itchy or irritating surface on the inside of the collar where it sits against your dog's skin. This can be uncomfortable, particularly with short haired dogs or dogs with sensitive skin.
Some materials are lightweight, supportive and comfortable - a very difficult combination to find in a collar. This collar has a neoprene lining and rounded edges, which provides air flow support and comfort.
Many leather collars are the ideal combination of strong support and comfort for both your dog as they wear it and for you as you handle your dog by the collar.
Suggested resources:
Ezydog Neo Collar
This strong and thick collar is also lightweight and very comfortable for your dog to wear. It provides support and rigidity and its rounded edges aren't stiff or abrasive. This collar is made by Ezydog and can be found in retail stores and online.
Handmade Leather Collars by Tamryn ♥
Tamryn can make you a custom made collar just for your dog. All the leather collars shown on this page are made by Tamryn. You can choose from a variety of styles, sizes and colours. Contact Tamryn to find out more.
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