How to Choose a Dog Collar and Leash

Choosing the Right Style for Your Dog

There is a wide variety of dog collars and leashes available, and sometimes deciding which is best for your dog can be a bit intimidating! Some collars and leashes are better choices for everyday use, and some are designed for obedience and training.

To find the size of collar your dog needs, measure his neck an inch or two below his head (depending upon the size of your dog). For small dogs add 1" to this measurement, and for medium and large dogs, add 2". The collar should fit loosely enough that you can slip a couple of fingers beneath it.

Quick-release and buckle collars are suited for most dogs for everyday wear. Flat collars are fine for dogs with short hair coats, and rolled collars are better for long-haired dogs to reduce hair breakage. A quick-release collar has a plastic snap, similar to a luggage strap snap, that is more convenient and attractive than a metal buckle. Quick-release, or snap, collars are usually made of nylon, and come in a variety of "designer" colors and patterns. You can even find matching collar and leash combinations. Snap collars work well for most dogs but if you have a larger, stronger dog or one who lunges when excited, you may want to get a collar with a metal buckle. Collars with metal buckles may come in either nylon or leather; the choice is really a personal preference. If you are a multi-dog family, you may want to stick with nylon, since dogs like to chew leather and may chew one another's collars off! Your dog should have a tag on his collar with your address and phone number in case he decides to make a mad dash to freedom.

Break-away collars have a special quick-release snap that will come unfastened with a strong pull. This type of collar was invented by a man whose dog choked when its collar became caught. This might be a good choice if your dog is left alone during the day without supervision. A break-away collar will not release when a leash is attached.