7 Types of Dog Collars: How to Choose a Collar for Your Dog

Here are some of the most common dog collar options:

1. 1. Flat collar: Flat collars are the standard collar. They’re typically nylon, rubber, or leather and lay flat against the dog’s neck. A D-ring, or metal loop, is usually sewn into them to attach ID tags and a dog leash. Flat collars are ideal for well-trained dogs who do not pull while walking. If a dog pulls on the leash while wearing a flat collar, the collar will strain the dog’s neck and could slip off. However, it’s not a bad idea to keep a flat collar on your dog at all times. You dog can wear another collar or a harness in addition to a flat collar.
2. 2. Harness: A dog harness attaches around your dog’s body rather than their neck. Harnesses are worn around the dog’s front legs and connect with a clasp at the top of the dog’s back. Harnesses are a popular choice for small dog breeds. They place little strain on your dog’s neck and are hard to slip out of.
3. 3. Martingale collar: Also known as a limited-slip collar, the martingale collar is a cross between a slip collar and a regular collar. Martingales allow you to have greater control over your dog without choking them. They are ideal for dog breeds with narrow heads—such as Greyhounds or Whippets—who are at greater risk of slipping out of a flat collar. They slip around your dog’s head and are worn high on the neck, just below the jawbone. When the dog puts tension on the leash, the leash tightens to an extent. When the dog relaxes, the collar loosens again. A martingale collar isn’t a complete replacement for a flat collar, and it’s best not to leave an unsupervised dog with a martingale collar in case it gets caught in something.
4. 4. Headcollar: Also known as a head halter or halter collar, headcollars slip over your dog’s snout and attach with a clasp behind their ears. They’re a good option for gently training your dog to remain focused while on a walk. Their unique design places less pressure on your dog’s trachea and makes it more difficult for dogs to bark or pull while walking. However, like all training tools, they don’t work well for all dogs (some dogs can panic or become overly subdued) and should be used with proper guidance.
5. 5. Slip collar: Also known as a choke chain collar or choke collar, slip collars are designed to tighten around your dog’s neck when they pull on the leash. The sensation is meant to alert your dog to stop placing tension on the leash. Though effective if used correctly, slip collars present a choking hazard and can put undue strain on your dog’s neck and trachea.
6. 6. Prong collar: Prong collars, also known as pinch collars, are made of metal and feature fang-shaped prongs that dig into or pinch your dog’s neck when taut. Prong collars are controversial, and many animal welfare groups advise against using them. Misuse of a prong collar can cause severe damage to your dog’s neck and trachea and
7. 7. E-collar: Colloquially known as “shock collars,” the e-collar is a dog training collar that works by delivering an electric pulse via metal contact points on the inside of the collar. It may be used to prevent a dog from leaving a specified area. Some models can be remote-controlled and are designed to get a dog’s attention via electric pulses, vibrations, or tones. There’s a lot of debate around the efficacy and safety of e-collars, and they should only be used with guidance from a professional dog trainer.

Consider these factors when you’re picking out a collar for your dog.

• Size: Most dog collars will specify the size in inches. Use a measuring tape to measure your dog’s neck to ensure you select the proper size collar for your dog. The collar should fit snug but remain loose enough that you can slip a finger underneath.
• Material: Dog collars come in a wide array of materials. Nylon dog collars are the most common type of dog collar—they’re inexpensive, easy to clean, and hold up well against wear and tear. Leather collars give your pooch an elevated look but aren’t the most practical—they’re ideal for dogs with meticulous hygiene and a relaxed lifestyle. Rubber or silicone collars might be the best option for dogs who love to swim or live in wet climates.
• Clasp: Some dog collars are designed to slip over your dog’s head and tighten when taut. However, a plastic or metal buckle is the most common clasp used to secure a collar. This is known as a buckle collar. Breakaway, or quick-release collars, are designed to prevent accidents by coming undone when pressure is applied.
• Leash attachment: Most dog collars have a D-ring or metal loop that allows you to attach a leash to the collar. Harnesses offer the ability to attach a leash to the chest or top of the back. Attaching a leash to the dog’s chest can provide greater control on walks.
• Training tool: Flat collars and harnesses are great for keeping your dog on the leash but offer little help with training. If your dog likes to pull on the leash, consider using a training collar. Use positive reinforcement to teach your dog to master on-leash walking.

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