Dog collars are an essential item for all devoted dog parents. They’re useful for training, handy when you’re in a hurry and let you keep control of your pup even in environments where he’s prone to getting excited. They also make it easy for you to attach an ID tag to your dog in case curiousity gets the better of him and he wanders off too far.
Choosing the right collar for a dog of any size requires care. A collar that’s too tight can cause injury, but he can easily slip out of one that’s too loose. Size does matter, and whether your dog is large or small affects the kind of collar you should choose.
A company founded by dog lovers for dog lovers, Arctic Sammy cares just as much about the comfort and safety of your best friend as you do. We manufacture reliable, long-lasting products for dogs and their owners including collars, dog harnesses and other dog accessories. Here’s our guide to shopping for dog collars for your furry friend, no matter his size.
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Why the right-sized dog collar matters
Many dogs have a tendency to pull on their collars, particularly if they’re easily frightened or still in their training phase. If the collar is too tight, it might choke your excitable dog, making the situation already worse. Too loose and he might slip out and make a break for it. The better it fits, however, the longer he can wear it for.
A good rule of thumb for standard dog collars is “the two-finger” rule. If you can comfortably place two fingers between the collar and your dog’s skin at a 90-degree angle, the sizing is right.
The best collars for dogs
The best collar for a larger-sized dog that pulls on his lead is one that’s strong and made to last. Some examples include:
Martingale collars
Made with two loops that tighten around your dog’s neck when he pulls against the leash, these collars are perfect for bigger dogs with narrow heads.
Slip leads
Dog trainers often use a slip lead – an effective leash-and-collar combo- to quickly correct bigger dogs that are prone to pulling on their leashes.
Harnesses
While not technically a collar, dog harnesses spread pressure evenly across your dog’s whole body rather than just his neck, which makes them a terrific option for controlling bigger breeds.
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Dog collar safety tips
Some general safety tips to keep in mind when using dog collars include:
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Remove collars during playtime to stop the other dog’s jaws, teeth or ID tag getting tangled up in your dog’s collar.
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Remove your dog’s collar at home or when he’s in his crate or kennel to stop it getting caught on things.
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Make sure you choose the right size, as an improperly sized collar is one of the leading causes of neck injuries for dogs.
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Inspect your dog’s collar regularly for signs of damage and wear and tear
Adjustable and Martingale dog collars from Arctic Sammy
Arctic Sammy has stylish, comfortable and durable Martingale and adjustable dog collars designed to suit pups large and small. Made from high-strength NZ climbing rope, these collars are designed to keep your dog safe and comfortable through all kinds of adventures.
Our Martingale collars slip over your dog’s head and fit comfortably around his neck so you don’t have to fiddle with buckles. Being escape-proof, they’re perfect for dogs with very narrow heads as well as very fluffy breeds (say “so long” to tangled fur!).
Our adjustable collars are suitable for all kinds of dogs and all kinds of adventures, from a walk in the park to a weekend away. Although they’re made from sturdy tear-resistant rope, they remain gentle on your dog’s neck.
Arctic Sammy also has a huge selection of other dog accessories to choose from including dog harnesses. With two D-ring attachment points with enough space for your dog’s leash and ID tags, the Arctic Sammy Adventure Dog Harness keeps your furry friend safe everywhere from the wilderness track to your local dog park.
To find out more, get in touch with Arctic Sammy!