How Tight Should a Dog Collar Be?

The dog collar is perhaps the main and classic accessory for all dogs. So it seems obvious that all dogs should use a collar although it seems not so obvious how they should use it. Sometimes, it is required to measure the circumference of the dog’s neck to get the right size dog collar.

Exactly, in getting the correct size of a dog collar there can be some mistakes. Here people may think that the circumference of the dog’s neck is more than enough. However, in these cases, the dog collar might be too tight. Of course, this harms the dogs during a walk because it can lead to different problems.

Also check: How to Clean a Dog Collar?

Below we mention how tight a dog collar should be. In this way, we will be able to prevent dogs from gagging or choking. This situation is even worse when our dogs meet other dogs and other animals. They may feel too excited and perform excessive force. So damage to their necks should be an important thing to avoid.

Proper Fit of Dog Collar

As we have mentioned, the circumference of the dog’s neck is the main reference we should take into account when counting on the right size in a dog collar. To respond quickly once we put the dog collar on our pet it should not be too loose or too tight.

On the contrary, here you can incorporate the two-finger rule so that your dog can enjoy a good walk with the right fit in the dog collar. So, when using a tape measure and measuring the circumference of the dog’s neck two fingers should be able to slip between your dog’s neck and the collar.

Again, a few extra centimeters can be incorporated here for people who do not prefer to use the two-finger technique. However, the number of extra centimeters should not be too excessive. When this happens the dog collar simply will not work because it will be too loose.

Can dogs lose hair because of the collar?

Another aspect that needs to be considered is certainly the type of hair of each dog. Some dogs can keep the same length of coat throughout a whole year. In these cases, there is no problem to be solved since the dog’s coat is always the same. In particular, the hair of these dogs always bulges in the same way.

However, some dogs lose too much hair in the summertime. Along with this, dogs suffering from excessive hair growth could also be another aspect to consider. In fact, in these cases, dogs will have too fluffy and bulky coats until a groomer takes care of the situation.

So, here the bulging of the hair and the enlargement of the circumference of the dog’s neck should be taken into consideration. In the same vein, the dog collar should consider the times when a dog has short hair or has shed much of its hair because it is summer.

How do I know if my dog’s collar is too tight?

Some collars that are too narrow or too short can greatly stress some dogs. This is another aspect that should be taken into account to avoid causing any kind of harm to a dog. So, collars that are too short could damage the larynx in the worst-case scenario.

Lastly, when it comes to a harness the proper fit is somewhat different. It is one of the main alternatives to avoid the dog’s neck area. A harness can offer greater comfort and an even distribution of the dog’s strength. It is that any dog can feel much more relaxed when he is wearing a harness.

Here, the disadvantage is that a harness is a much more expensive accessory compared to a collar. Those dogs with too much energy that get very anxious when walking can be a problem. A harness is a slightly easier accessory to put on your dog than a collar.

Some dogs may take longer to get used to a harness. Even the weight distribution can be somewhat unbalanced on the first few walks in harness.

Types of Collars

Textile collars

Textile collars are the most common option that can be found at a low cost. In general, this type of collar is made of high resistance nylon and waterproof neoprene. In turn, there is a wide variety of designs and colors of textile collars.

Although the durability is not the most suitable in the long term, they can offer a formidable lifespan considering the cost of each textile collar. Also, some options, in particular, can incorporate particular features such as reflective material.

Reflective material allows a dog to have an additional safety aspect. In places with low light, other people will be able to visualize the dog in a much easier way. This can be highly efficient in avoiding traffic accidents.

Metal collars

Metal collars are usually chains made up of links of different sizes. On many occasions when dealing with a dog with short hair or a dog that needs training, metal collars are usually an excellent choice. Besides, metal collars are usually very efficient due to their great durability and useful life.

Here the disadvantage is that unsuitable metal collars can easily strangle and damage the dog’s neck. So it is really necessary to get the most suitable collar to avoid damage to your pet.

Leather collars

The collars that can offer the most extensive durability are undoubtedly leather collars. The same leather collar can be useful throughout several generations of dogs. In this case, it is recommended not to get leather collars too wet. At the same time, it is a more expensive and heavier option but can offer a lifetime of usefulness.

Conclusion:

When your dog has the most appropriate collar, he will be able to enjoy different walks or even productive training. When the collar is neither too tight nor too loose, your dog will be much safer. Also, the dog collar is the main accessory that every pet needs to enjoy happy walks every day.

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