Dog Collars

Buckle Dog Collars

Buckle collars are made of flat or rolled nylon or leather. They have a buckle not unlike human belts and some sort of quick-release lever. The collar is worn loosely around the dog’s neck with identification tags attached. ID can also be embossed into the leather collar or sewn into the nylon. A loop is attached to which a leash can be attached.

Quick-Release Collars

Quick-release dog collars are similar to buckle collars but have a plastic closure device allowing for easier collar placement or removal. Quick-release collars are adjustable and don’t tighten once fastened.

Collars that Break-away

This is a special type of quick-release collar that unfastens if strong force is applied to the collar. These types of collars are commonly worn by hunting dogs, who may get their collars hung up on underbrush and strangle. Pet owners with cats often use the same type of collars. Because the collar is especially designed so that a leash can hook to a metal ring on either side of the latch, the collar will not unfasten when attached to a leash.

Metal Show Collars

These collars are often used in the show ring with all but toy breeds. They’re made of hex or serpentine metal chain, designed for show as well as control.

Limited Slip Collars

Limited slip collars are combination slip and quick-release types, adjustable and designed to tighten around a dog's neck, but stops tightening before they constrict airways. Some varieties are often called "greyhound collars."

Other Types of Dog Collars

Flea collars are strips of nylon impregnated with chemicals that repel fleas and ticks worn in addition to regular dog collars. Effectiveness of these dog collars depends largely upon hygiene and environmental factors. In other words, how clean your dog is and what lurks in your yard. Flea collars tend to be effective only for limited periods, requiring the purchase of another collar. For advice on the types to purchase, contact your veterinarian. These collars sometimes can trigger canine dermatitis or other allergic reactions. If you use flea collars and notice a yeasty smell issuing from your dog’s skin, cease the use of these and take your dog to the vet.

Elizabethan collars are not items you’d see in a Shakespearian play, rather odd-looking lampshade-like devices that prevent a dog from licking wounds, skin irritations or sutures after surgery. Some other types of Elizabethan collars are designed to prevent the dog from biting other dogs and people.

Professional Recommendations

Some trainers maintain that having no collar and relying upon commands is the best method of control. The thinking is that dogs will associate good behaviors only when the collar is worn. That may be, but any vet will tell you that collars are needed when you visit his or her office. And if your dog is large enough, Fido is likely to yank your chain while you struggle for control with heels dug into the ground.

Where to Buy

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• PetSmart
• Amazon.Com Pet Supplies
• Only PetSupplies.com
• Golly Gear