If you look around the dog collar aisle at a pet shop or check out collar selections on the web, you’ll probably see an overwhelming amount of choices available. Different designs, colors, sizes, materials, and widths create an assortment of dog collar options.
Unfortunately, a lot of pet owners commit various mistakes when purchasing a collar for their new puppy, especially when it comes to custom-made collars. Pet owners make mistakes because they simply have no knowledge of which collar suits their dog best. Even sizing the collar properly and using it safely creates confusion and incorrect purchases.
Choose a Collar Type
The sort of collar you select for your dog needs to fit with their age, breed, and energy level. If you are training your puppy through loose-leash walking, the ideal option is a head collar or harness. If you’re unsure about the best choice for your puppy, taking into account their medical condition and breed, you can consult with your local veterinarian. If you’re trying to fix a training/behavioral problem, you can either talk to a professional dog trainer, a veterinarian, or a certified vet behaviorist.
There are numerous kinds of dog collars you can choose from for your puppy. Ensure that you select a collar that is the ideal fit for your dog. The most common type of collar is a flat collar. A lot of dog owners and veterinary experts consider flat dog collars as standard collars that your dog can use daily. You don’t have to remove the collar every now and then because they are incredibly comfortable to wear. Flat collars usually make use of nylon or plastic.
Choose a Collar Material
After you choose a collar type for your dog, you now need to select a collar material. The collar’s material will positively determine its looks, durability, and comfort. You also need to keep in mind your puppy’s skin condition and choose a material that won’t irritate its skin.
Nylon
A lot of dog collar manufacturers use nylon as their primary material. It’s typically cheaper and provides you with a ton of choices regarding color and design. It can also twist easily, so it is ideal for smaller dogs or puppies with sensitive fur. Nonetheless, nylon isn’t the best material for every puppy. If your dog gets wet all the time or likes to roam outside all day, it’s better to avoid a nylon collar since it can become too stinky over time.
Nylon is also not that durable, in contrast to more robust materials like leather and waterproof biothane. If you like the benefits of a nylon collar, but your dog has a nylon allergy, you can also opt for collars that use fabric like cotton. Fabric collars possess numerous qualities as nylon but typically have a nylon core that does not touch your puppy’s skin.
Waterproof Biothane
Waterproof biothane is a vinyl-coated polyester and urethane material that is ultimately similar to synthetic leather collars in terms of quality. Aside from looking great and coming in tons of patterns and colors, it is also incredibly durable.
It’s one of many dog owners’ favorite materials since it can survive extreme temperature changes while deflecting foul odor and water damage. It is an excellent choice for dogs with an active lifestyle, particularly water-loving canines. Furthermore, these collars also have various reflections or glow in the dark parts for additional safety.
Leather
Leather is the most conventional material manufacturers use in making dog collars, especially for personalized dog collars with names. Leather creates a classic and elegant look. However, dog owners not only prefer leather for its appearance! The way manufacturers make leather dog collars, it possesses built-in protection from external forces and is highly durable. It also becomes softer after daily use.
Leather collars come in various types, such as Italian leather collars, English bridle leather collars, and padded leather collars. A lot of dog owners prefer Italian leather collars for smaller dogs since they are lighter and can fit perfectly on tiny necks. On the other hand, bridle leather collars are ideal for larger dogs that like to spend time outside. Lastly, if your dog has a long neck or sensitive skin, padded collars will work best.
Choose the Right Size
When it comes to custom dog collars, a one-size-fits-all mindset won’t help you choose the best collar for your puppy. Remember that every dog is different! When it comes to your dog’s collar, you must take its size into account and ensure that the collar you purchase is snug but does not squeeze your puppy’s neck. You need to order a collar depending on your dog’s specific neck and head size to buy the correct collar right off the bat.
Measure your puppy’s neck in inches using a soft tape measure, and ensure that you do this when they are standing upright. After you have your puppy’s neck measurement, you can now use it for customization. Keep in mind the general rule, wherein you should be able to effortlessly put two fingers between the dog’s neck and the collar.
Customize the Collar Appearance
Custom-made dog collars can assist in creating an additional level of safety for your puppy. Today, even microchipping cannot guarantee that you can find your dog whenever they get lost. Thus, when personalizing the collar, ensure that your puppy’s name, address, and medical information are visible to make sure passersby can easily return your dog.
You also need to select a method of personalization. A lot of customization companies offer embroidering and laser-engraving personalization, which guarantees that the information on the collar is legible and will last a lifetime. You can also opt to choose a unique handcrafted identification tag that comes securely with the actual collar.
Make Sure Your Puppy is Ready
It’s best not to push your puppy to try on a collar during the initial 2-3 days of moving into your home since they are still adjusting to a new family and environment. You can start training your dog to wear a collar at least on their third day home, but holding up until their 10th week is the most ideal.
The amount of time a puppy will need to get comfortable in wearing a collar varies. Some will only require hours. Some require days. Most puppies get comfortable wearing a collar around 14 days as long as you introduce the collar to them regularly over the two weeks.
Takeaway
One of the worst nightmares of a pet owner is losing their pet. Besides securing your puppy, dog collars also help make sure your puppy’s ID tag will make sure that anyone who finds him can quickly return him safely. Remember to purchase a dog collar that is not only durable but also works for your dog’s comfort and lifestyle.
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