Selection Recommendations For Your Dog's Collar
Your dog's care and health are of the utmost importance to you as a pet owner, including the type of collar that you select for them to wear. Here are some recommendations to keep your dog secure and safe while looking great with the right type of collar.
Choose the Right Material
Dog collars come in a variety of materials and patterns to keep your dog looking stylish and to keep them safe while they are on a leash. You may opt for a nylon collar if your dog regularly gets wet or you are planning to take them to the lake or swimming.
However, nylon collars are not as durable and comfortable to your dog as a padded leather collar is. A collar made of beautiful soft leather will look great on your dog and provide a durable fit without posing a strangulation risk, such as nylon can. A padded leather collar is going to be more comfortable on your dog not only because it is a soft material but also because leather allows natural breathability for airflow to get to your dog's skin.
Select a Good Fit
When you choose the right size of dog collar for your dog, make sure you account for the size your dog is now and any growth they will have in the future. Also, account for their hair and if it has recently been trimmed and when it grows back in, if it will thicken under the collar and need more space to keep your dog comfortable. For these reasons, an adjustable dog collar is a must so you can shorten and lengthen the leather collar to keep it snug around your dog's neck but not tight. Be sure you can always fit two fingers comfortably under your dog's collar next to their skin.
Take the Proper Collar Care
No matter the type of collar you choose for your dog, be sure you take care of it so it lasts as a quality and comfortable accessory on your dog. For example, if you choose a padded leather collar, make sure you keep it clean with periodic cleaning. Use soap and water to wipe dirt and residues from the surface of both sides of the leather collar. You can also use a leather cleaner to keep it from developing an odor. Then, when you have finished washing your dog's leather collar, be sure to apply a leather conditioner to keep it protected from moisture damage.
Also, keep an eye out on your dog's leather collar for signs of wear and cracking. If the leather collar is allowed to dry out, it will crack and cause chafing to your dog's neck. Leather will naturally absorb and collect oils from your dog's skin and fur, which will help to keep the leather soften, however sometimes, the leather can dry out improperly. If this happens, replace the dry and cracked collar with one that is intact and smooth.
Contact a local pet supply store to learn more about products such as padded leather collars.