Dog Collars- What do you use?

Today's discussion is about collars. Please see the description of each photo to learn more about these types of collars. If there's another you'd like to see, please tell me in the comments. Feel free to share your own knowledge and experiences with these as well. 

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This is a traditional buckle flat collar. Flat collars are also seen with quick snaps. These collars are great for holding the dog's tags and identification. If you have a dog that pulls, flat collars can put pressure on their trachea, causing problems for the dog. These are the most widely used and accepted collars. Even if you don't use them for walking your dog, I suggest keeping one on all the time just to hold the tags.

 
This is a traditional snap flat collar. Flat collars are also made with buckles. These collars are great for holding the dog's tags and identification. If you have a dog that pulls, flat collars can put pressure on their trachea, causing problems for the dog. These are the most widely used and accepted collars. Even if you don't use them for walking your dog, I suggest keeping one on all the time just to hold the tags.

This is a martingale collar, sometimes referred to as a check choke collar. This one has a cloth extender, though some are made with chain. It tightens if the dog pulls, but only to a certain extent. For this reason, it is considered safer than traditional choke collars. It is also used for dogs who have small heads for their neck size to prevent their escape in the event that they pull backwards. Breeds such as Greyhounds often need martingale collars.

This is a martingale collar, sometimes referred to as a check choke collar. This one has a chain, but they are available with all nylon too. It tightens if the dog pulls, but only to a certain extent. For this reason, it is considered safer than traditional choke collars. It is also used for dogs who have small heads for their neck size to prevent their escape in the event that they pull backwards. Breeds such as Greyhounds often need martingale collars.

This is a traditional dog harness. Harnesses are used for little dogs or for dogs who don't tolerate pressure on their necks. Keep in mind when using a harness that they can sometimes promote pulling, as it works with the pulling power of their bodies rather than against it. Think of sled dogs. They use harnesses to pull the sled because it's the most efficient way to capture their pulling power. There are some "no pull" harnesses, however, if a dog really wants to pull, it will, no matter what harness or collar it is wearing. Training is really the only way to deal with severe pulling.


This is a head collar. The most popular kind is known as the Gentle Leader. It works on the same principle as a horse halter, being that if you control the head you can control the body. They work for the most part, unless your dog is very determined. However, keep in mind that these collars do not teach your dog not to pull but merely prevent it from doing so. Iif you put on another type of collar for walks, the pulling would probably resume.

This is a choke collar. These collars are thought to help deter pulling, however, some dogs will pull through the pain and cut off their air supply. There's a reason they are called choke collars. They choke! Some trainers still believe they can be effective tools, however, you must know how to properly use them and put them on. Dogs should never be left unattended with choke chains on because if they get caught on something, the dog could potentially strangle itself trying to get free.

This is a prong or pinch collar. They usually made in the martingale style but feature "teeth" that put pressure on the dog's neck when they pull or you pull back on them. Although some trainers swear that they are effective and do not cause harm, I prefer to teach my dog with non-confrontational methods which do not rely on intimidation. Some people get these because they want their dog to look tough. Some use them as a crutch to contain unruly dogs. Very few know how to use these properly and effectively and they are not for the average dog owner or they can be seriously misused. I personally do not recommend this type of collar but everyone is entitled to their own beliefs. If you are thinking about getting a choke collar, please do research or consult with a veterinarian or professional dog trainer.