How To Choose A Collar And A Leash For Your Dog?

Updated on November 21. 2023

Choosing a collar and leash can be more complex than one might first imagine. In the market, there are endless models of different materials, but what are the most suitable collar and leash for each dog? If you are wondering how to pick a collar and a leash, this post is for you.

5 Tips To Choose A Collar And A Leash For A Dog

Picking up a dog's collar and leash requires you to take into account some essential issues. Here are a few key considerations when picking up a dog's collar and leash to ensure your pup's comfort and safety.

1. Buy The Collar And Leash In A Specialized Store

In a specialized store, you can get help if you need it. In addition, they can provide you with information on fair trade, manufacturing quality, durability, etc.

2. Remember That Every Dog ​​Is Different

Fashions are not important here, but the size, coat, and age of your dog.

3. Thickness Matters

A puppy does not need a thick collar or leash as a large adult dog does. Think like this: if your dog is an adult and of a medium or large breed, choose a wider and stronger leash.

4. Pay Attention To The Length

The short leashes allow you to have greater control of your dog; this is ideal if you are training him or if he is a nervous animal. Calmer dogs may enjoy a longer leash more. Check with your vet about it.

5. Pick Wisely The Materials

Choose materials that do not damage your puppy's coat. Remember that if possible, it is better to buy a harness than a collar, although this will depend on the breed of your dog.

How To Choose A Collar For A Puppy: 4 Things To Consider

When making the choice, you must consider several points:

1. The Size, Coat, And Age Of Your Furry Friend

It is not the same to have a Saint Bernard puppy at home as a Chihuahua.

For instance, a Saint Bernard, known for its large size and strength, would require a sturdy, wide collar and a strong leash to ensure control and comfort.

In contrast, a delicate, lightweight collar and leash would be more suitable for a small and fragile Chihuahua.

The right collar and leash not only ensure your dog's safety during your adventures but also facilitate effective communication.

A well-chosen collar and leash can aid in training and managing your dog's behavior, allowing for clear signals and guidance during walks and other activities. Therefore, it's essential to select these items based on your dog's unique physical characteristics and training needs to enhance your bond and communication with your furry companion.

2. Collar Or Harness

When choosing between a collar and a harness, many veterinarians now recommend harnesses, especially for dogs prone to respiratory issues or those with delicate necks.

This is due to the fact that harnesses reduce strain on the neck and throat, lowering the risk of bruising, choking, or respiratory problems.

On the other hand, harnesses are considered a safer and more comfortable option for most breeds, from robust, large dogs to smaller, more fragile breeds.

They provide better control without the associated risks of neck strain or injury, making them a preferred choice for daily walks and vigorous activities.

The market offers a variety of harness styles, each designed to cater to different needs. For instance, front-clip harnesses can help discourage pulling, while padded harnesses offer extra comfort for dogs with sensitive skin or those who require additional support.

3. The Material

Among the multiple materials with which it is made with necklaces and leashes are:

• Leather: It is a strong material that withstands traction well, although if your puppy bites and chews it, it will probably break.
• Nylon: its use is very widespread because it is very resistant. However, it can cause rubbing and rashes in short-haired dogs.
• Fabric: they are usually used with small dogs since it does not support traction well.
• Metal: In the past, it was common to see large dogs with metal collars and leashes. Today, other more dog-friendly materials are preferred, such as those mentioned above.

Discover: 4 Ways To Reduce Stress With Your Dog

4. Basic Strap Versus Extendable Strap

The basic leash has a single extension that you can choose when buying it: short, medium, or long; while the extendable ones can be made longer or shorter depending on the movement of your furry friend.

This last leash is typically common in the case of small dogs, since they are not very resistant to the strong pulls of large dogs.

Pick The Collar And The Leash According To Your Dog's Breed

If your dog is large, you will have to select a leash according to its power and the diameter of its neck. Of course, keep in mind that you should be able to put your fingers between her neck and the collar, to make sure it is not too tight.

Nylon or leather are usually recommended for dogs of great size and nervous character. In the past, a strap ending in a loop was sold for these cases. However, we do not recommend those collars as there is a risk of strangulation. Instead, go for a separate collar and leash.

In the case of short-haired dogs, we already anticipate that nylon can generate friction that irritates the skin. Better opt for leather.

Small dogs can use anything from cloth to nylon; yes: pay attention that the size is according to your four-legged friend.

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FAQ

When Should I Put A Collar And Leash On My Puppy? 

In general, it is recommended to start with canine collar and leash training from two months or two and a half months (8-10 weeks). Of course, you should start patiently and very slowly, first putting the collar on at home for short periods of time, and then the leash. Try walking on a leash indoors so that your puppy slowly gets used to it.

Is It Better To Walk A Dog On A Collar Or Harness?

The harness is more gentle with your dog, since it does not generate pressure on his neck. You should consider that your dog's neck is very delicate and pulling on his leash can cause pain. Of course, this can be solved by training him to walk with a collar and leash.

Usually, the harness is indicated instead of the collar in those dogs who, for some reason, have greater difficulty breathing or have not learned to walk properly with a collar (without pulling on the leash). 

Should You Take A Dog Collar Off At Night? 

You can take the collar off your dog at night, or leave it on all day. The choice is yours. However, we recommend you take it off so that your pup can sleep more comfortably. After all, you take off your shoes (or bra) to sleep. Using the collar 24/7 can cause fur problems that can lead to skin infection.

If you plan to leave the collar with his tag on him in case an accident happens, consider instead placing a microchip under his skin with all the information and remove the collar at night.

Are collars uncomfortable for dogs?

Dogs were not born with a collar and, therefore, it is not comfortable for them, just as a baby is bothered by clothes until he gets used to it. In the case of pups, you should also consider that when pulling on the leash, the collar creates pressure on their neck, causing discomfort and even pain. While most dogs get used to the collar, some never do. In these cases, feel free to use a harness instead.