Walking your dog is possibly the highlight of your day and definitely the best part of your dogs day. It is the best thing you can do for your dogs physical and emotional well-being and can also strengthen your bond with them! But, if you’re using the wrong kind of collar, although your dog may look adorable, they could be very uncomfortable, both emotionally and physically - without you even realising.
In this article we discuss if dog collars are safe and if dogs actually mind wearing their collars.
Are Dog Collars Safe?
There are lots of pros and cons to your dog wearing a collar - and as it is a legal requirement for your dog to wear a collar or harness with the name, address (including postcode) of the owner engraved or written on to it - you may find a collar is the best way to display this. As long as your dog is comfortable wearing their collar and is safe whilst being walked - your dog will feel safe and at ease whilst wearing the collar and it will give you peace of mind too!
It is however, recommended to take your dogs collar off at night - the main reason for this is due to the danger of their collar being caught on their bed or around the home throughout the night. Removing their collar before they go to bed prevents your dog from any harm or injury and also allows them to have a restful sleep.
Do Collars Hurt Dogs?
It is important you choose the right collar for your dog, it must be comfortable for them to wear or they may try to constantly rip it off. Choke collars, prong collars or shock collars can be extremely dangerous to dogs and can be associated with a number of injuries, including psychological consequences. Traditional collars such as a flat buckle collar or a leather collar with a buckle can harm a dog’s neck if the dog pulls hard on their lead, or if the pet owner uses the collar to pull the dog around.
At Lords & Labradors we stock a number of collars suitable for all breeds, to give your dog maximum comfort whilst being durable enough to feel secure but not constricted. And, as an added bonus we have a variety of colours and prints to compliment your dogs fur and personality!
Do Dogs Mind Collars?
Generally, if you have done your research and choose the best collar and fit for your dog, they should be quite happy wearing their collar comfortably. As long as it isn’t too tight and your dog can get used to wearing the collar, they may not even realise it is there!
Do Dogs Like Collars?
Some dogs love their collar and display a proud behaviour when presented with their collar. You may find if you gave it to them, they would stash it in their toy box or bed. Some dogs may only dislike their collar if they have a negative association with it. The best way to help your dog overcome this fear of their collar is to introduce it gradually. All you need is a bag of your dog’s favourite treats and a little patience!
Don’t forget to check the collar often - your dogs coat may effect the collar’s fit and you should check often to make sure you can always fit two fingers under the collar, as an average. For small breeds, you should be able to fit one finger between the dog’s neck and the collar, for medium breeds it is recommended two fingers and for larger breeds you should be able to fit three fingers between the dog’s neck and collar.
With time and patience, your dog will learn to love their collar and feel safe while wearing it. You’ll have a safe, happy and content pup with the correct neck wear!
