Collars or Halters

What Kind of Dog Collar to Purchase

Collars or halters, which one are you to choose? What is a dog collar or dog halter and why would you want one? This article will explain briefly the use for each and the importance each one plays in the role of training your pet pooch. Personally, I find the collar and leash to be one of the versatile tools in training your pet. It can help you in so many different ways and also lets your dog know who the boss is and who is in command.

When using the collar it will either loosen or tighten, depending on what your dog is doing. If your dog is relaxed, the collar will loosen up. If your dog is all systems go and is trying to run ahead, the system will tighten up. It will not be so tight that your pet can’t breathe, but just enough to let it know that you are still in control. You will remain the alpha dog in this case (and hopefully ever case).

Many people ask what kind of dog collar to purchase. I believe that a slip collar works best as it gives you the most room to work with (just mentioned above). If you just have a straight collar it will always seem to be of the same intensity. The slip allows you that extra room and works great for teaching sit and stay commands. There are also a variety of materials to choose from. I typically see the “mean” looking dogs with a spike collar, whether this is stereotypical or not, it just so happens to always be this way.

Collars are now made out of chain or nylon. More people seem to be heading towards nylon as it is lighter, safer, and quieter. It also does the exact same job as far as I am concerned. The collars today come in a variety of shapes and colors so you will not be at a loss when trying to choose the right one. Make sure you measure the size of the dog’s neck too. You would be surprised as to how many people forget this step and simply buy the collar based on a best guess. You will only find yourself returning to the store to explain your situation nine times out of ten.

If your collar is too big it will not give you the results or sufficient training you desire and if it is too small, it will do the exact opposite. It might even make your dog annoyed and angry at you if the collar is tighter than it should be. Last but not least you have the option of purchasing a halter. I would not recommend to start with one, but if your dog becomes aggressive than it would be a wise decision to use one. Using a halter allows you to control the entire head of the dog and thus, the direction its body goes in. This really isn’t needed as a first step though. So with that, happy collar shopping and good luck to you and your pooch. -- Dog Leash