Illuminated Dog Collars

From LoveToKnow Dogs

Illuminated dog collars can help keep your dog safe, even when he isn't with you.

What Are Illuminated Dog Collars

Illuminated dog collars are designed to make your dog more visible, particularly at night. There are various designs that are associated with these collars, and the most common designs include either blinking LED lights or lighted tubes located inside the collar. Some collars contain lights that are always on. Others have blinking lights, and still others feature both modes so you can choose the one that suits your needs.

Buying a Collar

If you are in the market for a dog collar that provides illumination for your pet, what should you look for?

Fit - Regardless of the type of collar you choose, fit is important. The collar should be placed high on your pet's neck. You should be able to fit at least one or two fingers comfortably between your pet's neck and the fastened collar, although this really depends upon the size of your dog. For example, a small dog may need a collar that leaves only a finger's width between the collar and the neck. However, a large dog may need a two or three finger width adjustment.

Polybrite Illuminated Collar

Care - Obviously, you will pay more for an illuminated collar than a regular collar, so you'll want to take care of it. Choose a collar that is easy to clean and weather resistant.
Material - Collars that are weather resistant will last longer. If your dog is frequently around water, you should consider choosing a waterproof collar. Collars made of durable nylon are your best bet. They typically last longer and are easier to clean.
Safety features - What type of light do you want the collar to emit? Some collars offer the option of two modes — steady light or blinking light. Others only feature one mode. How reflective is the collar even when its light is turned off? Many of these illuminated collars still provide some protection because they are reflective as well. Consider purchasing a collar that uses quick release, snap-together buckles for a safer fit.
Batteries - Depending upon the collar you select, batteries can vary from small watch batteries to AA batteries. If your dog is a retriever, you'll probably want a collar with longer batter life. Which type of battery storage does the collar have? Many collars are fitted with either plastic compartments or Velcro pockets used for battery storage. Whichever collar you choose should still have a battery compartment that is weather resistant.
Color - Choose a color that will be visible even when the collar's light is not on.
Identification - While you want your dog to be visible, you also want him to be easily identified. You may be able to order some illuminated collars with ID tags attached.
Costs - Pricing depends on the size of the collar you choose, as well as any features like the power source, but most collars run from just under $10.00 to around $25.00.

Popular Brands

Visiglo lighted dog collar

There are several manufacturers of illuminated collars for dogs. Two of the most popular are the Polybrite collar and the Visiglo.

Polybrite - The Polybrite dog collar is waterproof, making it an excellent choice for hunting and retrieving dogs. The collar is weather and water resistant, and it's made of durable nylon. It uses LED technology, and all collars come with a three-function switch for off, flashing and steady modes. You can choose from colors such as red, green, yellow, or white and even some holiday designs. The collars are capable of providing illumination for up to 200 hours.
Visiglo - Visiglo sells leashes and collars in three categories including fashion, LED and sport, depending on the need of the consumer. Visiglo collars come in small, medium and large. While these collars are weather resistant, they are not waterproof.

Before purchasing an illuminated collar for your dog, consider what features are important to you, and select the model that most closely fits your needs.

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