Here Are the 11 Best Dog Collars: Reviewed

Written by Judie Sigdel
Updated: October 26, 2023
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Does my dog need a collar? New pup parents ask the question a lot, and the answer is simple: yes! Every dog should have a collar. Not only are they necessary to attach leashes, licenses, IDs, and vaccination tags, but they can also be helpful when training. However, not all dog collars are created equal – and some are downright inhumane. Moreover, different types of collars are suited for various purposes, dog sizes, and life stages.

We did the research on the top collars people are using and compiled a list of the best on the market. Our pet product review team considered several factors during this process, including price, material, straightforwardness, effectiveness, style, and durability.

In addition to our top collars updated for 2022, we have added the Fuzzy Friends Hemp Collar into our rankings as the best natural dog collar of the year. Not only is the collar environmentally friendly and created by a veterinarian, it is safe for pets with skin irritation or allergies!

  1. Joytale Reflective Dog Collar

    •Neoprene-padded

    •Variety of colors & sizes

    •Reflective, adjustable, comfortable

    Check Amazon
  2. PetSafe Gentle Leader Dog Collar

    •Designed by veterinarians

    •No pull technology

    •Variety of colors & sizes

    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  3. Blazin' Safety LED Rechargeable Nylon Dog Collar

    •Bright for nighttime use

    •Rechargeable LED lights

    •Comfortable & fashionable

    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  4. Moonpet Soft Padded Genuine Leather Dog Collar

    •Stylish, longlasting leather collar

    •Various colors and sizes

    Check Amazon
  5. GoTags Adjustable Nameplate Personalized Dog Collar

    •Engraved tag for name, address, phone number

    •No dangling tags

    •Easy use, affordable, stylish

    Check Chewy Check Amazon
  6. Country Brook Petz Martingale Heavy Duty Nylon Dog Collar
    • Sizes Micro-XLarge fits necks from 5 inches to 31 inches
    • No buckle, slip-on adjustable nylon collar
    • Available in 21 different colors
    • Colorfast dye to resist fading when wet
    Check Amazon
  7. SOBAKEN Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs (2 pack)
    • Provides 8 months of protection
    • One size fits all
    • Natural and hypoallergenic
    • Can be used from 3 months old
    Check Amazon
  8. Bow Tie Dog Collar and Leash Set

    •2 collar styles and a leash

    •Stylish plaid fabric

    •Comfortable and affordable

    Check Amazon
  9. Dogline Biothane Waterproof Dog Collar

    •Waterproof material, odor-proof

    •Quick release buckle

    •Variety of colors

    Check Amazon
  10. Black Rhino Neoprene Padded Dog Collar

    •Sturdy and comfortable

    •Variety of colors, ranging XS-L sizes

    •All dog breeds


    Check Amazon
  11. Fuzzy Friends Hemp Dog Collar

    -Hemp shell lined with cotton

    -Durable and comfortable

    -Chemical free, hypoallergenic

    -Renewably sourced material

    -Small business run by US Navy veteran and a veterinarian

    Check Amazon

Top Picks: The Best Dog Collars Available Today

Best Overall Dog Collar: Joytale Reflective Dog Collar

Our selection as the best overall dog collar on the market today is the Joytale Reflective Dog Collar. The Joytale reflective dog collar was chosen by our team as our top overall choice because of its reflectiveness, colors, adjustability, comfort, and low cost of less than $10! Additionally, these collars have neoprene padding and are highly breathable, cutting down on odor.

Joytale’s collars come in twelve colors and four sizes, ranging from XS to L. They’re good, old-fashioned dog collars that fit every budget, and the wide range of sizes means that they are suitable for puppies and adult dogs alike. These collars allow for plenty of adjustment which means that you can ensure the perfect fit for your best friend as they grow. The neoprene padding also means that your dog will be comfortable, particularly if they pull, as the soft material doesn’t chafe.

One of the best features of this collar is its reflectiveness as it puts safety at the forefront, meaning that you and your dog can easily be spotted while you’re taking them for late-night walks. They also sport a quick-release buckle for safety which is essential incase your dog gets hooked onto anything, such as a fence.

Pros and Cons of the Joytale Reflective Dog Collar

ProsCons
The collar comes in four different sizes, meaning it fits a variety of dog breeds.None
The reflective material means that your dog is easily spotted in the dark.
Soft neoprene padding ensures that the collar doesn’t chafe.
Best Overall
Joytale Reflective Dog Collar

•Neoprene-padded

•Variety of colors & sizes

•Reflective, adjustable, comfortable

Check Amazon

Best Leash Training Dog Collar: PetSafe Gentle Leader Head Collar

The best leash training collar is the PetSafe Gentle Leader Head Collar. This collar is designed by vets and dog trainers for both puppies and adult dogs. It’s made of nylon and neoprene and is placed around the head and muzzle instead of the neck. When properly used, its unique shape applies light pressure to pain-free points on the back of the neck instead of the throat. This also prevents dogs that pull from choking themselves with a traditional collar which puts pressure on the throat.

PetSafe’s collar is an excellent choice for leash training as the unique design discourages pups from pulling. The gentle, yet firm style allows for reinforcement while teaching manners. However, it still allows for a range of motion which is important during any training session. The neoprene padding also ensures that your pup never experiences any discomfort while wearing it.

This unique collar comes in five sizes, from petite to extra-large, which means that it fits a wide variety of dogs breeds and ages. It also comes in a range of colors so you can choose your favorite. Plus, at around $15, it’s an affordable option.

Pros and Cons of the PetSafe Gentle Leader Head Collar

ProsCons
The unique style is an easy and effective way to teach dogs not to pull. It also prevents dogs from choking while pulling.Some dogs dislike having anything around their muzzle
The wide range of sizes and the neoprene padding ensures a comfortable fit around the face.Easy to use incorrectly without proper training or knowledge.
Best Leash Training Dog Collar
PetSafe Gentle Leader Dog Collar

•Designed by veterinarians

•No pull technology

•Variety of colors & sizes

Check Chewy Check Amazon

Best Nighttime Dog Collar: Blazin’ Safety LED Dog Collar 

The best nighttime dog collar is the Blazin’ Safety LED Dog Collar. This collar gets high marks overall, especially for its fashion-forward nighttime apparatus and cool LED light inlays! Made with high-grade woven nylon, the nighttime collar is rechargeable and easily adjustable, while also not taking a hit to your budget.

This LED dog collar is a great option for people who take their dogs on evening runs and hikes and it is much more noticeable than reflectors. It has three different light modes – fast flash, steady flash, and constant light – which can help in different situations. If you don’t want to use the lights during the day, no problem! Simply press them off. However, you don’t need to worry about having to constantly recharge it either, as each charge provides around eight hours of constant use.

While the LED lights are undoubtedly a cool addition, this collar doesn’t lack on other features either. It is easily adjustable, meaning that you can always make sure that it has a comfortable fit even as your pup grows. There are four sizes available too – from XS to L – so it’s suitable for a range of different dog breeds. Additionally, it features an easy-release snap fastening so you never have to worry about your pup getting tangled.

Pros and Cons of the Blazin’ Safety LED Dog Collar

ProsCons
The LED lights are perfect for night-time exercise with your dog, providing visibility from 350 yards awayThe LED lights aren’t always needed
There are three different settings on the lights, allowing you to choose the appropriate setting for your needsYou need to have a suitable device to charge it.
The wide range of sizes of this collar means that it will fit your pup as it grows.
Best Nighttime Dog Collar
Blazin' Safety LED Rechargeable Nylon Dog Collar

•Bright for nighttime use

•Rechargeable LED lights

•Comfortable & fashionable

Check Chewy Check Amazon

Best Leather Dog Collar (Verified Review): Moonpet’s Genuine Leather Dog Collar

Our choice as the best leather dog collar is Moonpet’s genuine leather dog collar. These collars are stylish, long-lasting, and feature durable hardware for leash and tag attachment. They come in three sizes – small, medium, and large – and are available in various colors ranging from maroon to light brown.

The best feature of this leather dog collar is that it prioritizes your pup’s comfort with a padded underside. This is a great addition as it prevents the collar from digging into your dogs neck while on a leash, especially if they have a tendency to pull.

On the downside, some people report that Moonpet’s leather dog collar exudes an unpleasant chemical smell. Additionally, some people with large dogs report sizing problems. So before ordering, make sure to measure accurately and double-check that the large size will work for your hound.

Budget-wise, these leather dog collars look expensive but are reasonably priced at around $23. That’s not bad for a full-grain leather product!

Moonpet leather dog collar with double-prong brass hardware.
Sara Jane is incredibly comfortable in her Moonpet padded leather collar. Image: Leila Grossman
Note the quality leather and stitching on this full-grain leather collar. Image: Leila Grossman

Pros and Cons of Moonpet’s Genuine Leather Dog Collar

ProsCons
The leash and tag attachments are strong and durableSometimes this collar has an unpleasant chemical odor
This collar features a padded underside to ensure a comfortable fit.Sizing for large dogs can be an issue. Users have reported that the size guide is not accurate and they don’t fit.
Best Leather Dog Collar
Moonpet Soft Padded Genuine Leather Dog Collar

•Stylish, longlasting leather collar

•Various colors and sizes

Check Amazon

Best Personalized Dog Collar: GoTags Personalized Dog Collar 

If you want a personalized dog collar then our choice is the GoTags Personalized Dog Collar. Fashion is the word that immediately came to mind when we first saw these collars for people who like to personalize. They come in a variety of prints, and the shiny, silver buckle makes them a tasteful standout. They’re the kind of collars that will garner compliments from strangers.

Instead of using overlays that quickly wear off, GoTag’s collars have laser engraved buckles. To personalize, you have the choice of inscribing a name, address, and telephone number. We suggest, however, you only use the name and number sections because revealing your address isn’t the safest move.

These dog collars are affordable at less than $20, yet are still durable and long-lasting. They also come in five sizes – from XS to XL – meaning that you are sure to find one to fit, no matter what size your pooch is.

Pros and Cons of the GoTag Personalized Dog Collar

ProsCons
Featuring laser-engraved buckles, you never need to worry about overlays wearing off these collarsThe option to add your address isn’t the safest choice.
There is a wide choice of personalization available, with options for name, and phone number
With five sizes available, these collars fit a wide range of different dogs.
Best Personalized Dog Collar
GoTags Adjustable Nameplate Personalized Dog Collar

•Engraved tag for name, address, phone number

•No dangling tags

•Easy use, affordable, stylish

Check Chewy Check Amazon

Best Martingale Dog Collar: Country Brook Petz Heavy Duty Martingale Collar

The Country Brook Petz Heavy Duty Martingale Collar is the best martingale dog dollar and the best rated on Amazon. We chose this the martingale collar because it checks all of our requirements – durability, comfort, style, size, and cost.

This martingale collar is made of high tensile strength nylon with box stitching located at pressure points to increase durability. This heavy-duty material is soft and comfortable; it isn’t going to snap easily even if your pup is a strong puller. More importantly, nylon is able to handle moisture and humidity well. Getting it wet, either by cleaning it or because of your dog’s antics, isn’t going to affect its sturdiness.

This best-rated collar also features welded nickel-plated steel rings which won’t break or corrode. There’s no risk of the metal rubbing against your fur baby’s neck and causing discomfort or, worse, chafing and causing sores. Whether your dog’s hairy, hairless, or hypoallergenic, they’re not going to notice this collar until you’re pulling the leash.

Aside from being well-made and sturdy, we loved the fact that Country Brook offers a wide selection for dog owners. From sizes that fit Chihuahuas to German Shepherds and colors ranging from mango to royal blue, you won’t have a hard time finding a martingale collar that suits your energetic doggo. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that the collar only costs around $10. Your wallet won’t feel the pinch.

Obviously, there are numerous benefits to getting this heavy-duty martingale collar from Country Brook. However, a few customers weren’t so happy. A few mentioned that the color leached onto their pup’s furs which can be an issue unless you wanted a hot pink dog (or something similar). And if you have an enthusiastic dog on your hands, you might find it difficult to slip on the collar and adjust the fit properly.

Find more reviewed martingale collars here.

Pros and Cons of the Country Brook Petz Heavy Duty Martingale Dog Collar

ProsCons
Made from durable and high-quality material, this collar features additionally stitching at pressure points, meaning it is suitable for even the strongest pullers.Occasionally, the color can leach onto the dogs coat.
The nickel-plated steel rings won’t corrode or cause discomfort to your dog.The collar can be difficult to slip onto enthusiastic dogs.
This collar is available in a wide range of sizes which are tailored to several different breeds.
Best Martingale Dog Collar
Country Brook Petz Martingale Heavy Duty Nylon Dog Collar
  • Sizes Micro-XLarge fits necks from 5 inches to 31 inches
  • No buckle, slip-on adjustable nylon collar
  • Available in 21 different colors
  • Colorfast dye to resist fading when wet
Check Amazon

Best Overall Flea Collar: SOABAKEN Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs

The flea collar that is recommended by most vets for the prevention and treatment of fleas and ticks on dogs is the SOBAKEN Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs.

Containing 100% natural ingredients — including spearmint oil, clove oil, and citronella essential oil — this collar is hypoallergenic and is not toxic at all, meaning that you never need to worry about petting your best friend while they’re wearing it. It is also safe to use on puppies from three months old.

The powerful natural formula works by repelling fleas and ticks and provides eight months of continuous protection, with results noticeable within 24 hours. Although the active ingredient works by spreading through the coat of your pet, this flea collar doesn’t leave behind any unsightly greasy marks or lingering chemical odors.

With a length of 25 inches, this collar fits most dogs. Simply adjust the collar to the right size for your pet and cut off the excess length. As there are two collars in each pack, this flea collar is great value for money — and for owners with more than one pet.

Pros and Cons of SOBAKEN Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs

ProsCons
This long-lasting flea collar provides eight months of continuous protection against fleas and ticks.None
Containing 100% natural ingredients (including spearmint oil, clove oil, and citronella essential oil), this collar is hypoallergenic and non-toxic.
This natural collar is safe to use on puppies from three months of age.
Best Flea Collar
SOBAKEN Flea and Tick Prevention for Dogs (2 pack)
  • Provides 8 months of protection
  • One size fits all
  • Natural and hypoallergenic
  • Can be used from 3 months old
Check Amazon

Best Dog Collar Set: EXPAWLORER’s Plaid Collar Set

If you’re looking for a dog collar and leash set then our top choice is EXPAWLORER’s plaid collar set. It comes with a bow-tie collar, bandana collar, and 59-inch leash. The collars have adjustable holes and fit necks between nine and 11 inches, allowing for plenty of adjustment. The length of the leash is great too, as it is long enough to allow your pup enough freedom while still remaining safe at your side.

The bow-tie and bandana are the perfect accessories if you love to have a stylish pooch. The beige plaid pattern is reminiscent of a grandad’s cardigan – making it the perfect aesthetic accent for pets with “old souls.” For an extra bonus – EXPAWLORER’s plaid collars also fit cats.

Some people don’t love the small gold bell that comes attached to the D-ring, but it’s removable. It also has two small buttons on the bandana, which a rowdy pup may gnaw off. Otherwise, there are few other drawbacks worth mentioning.

Pros and Cons of EXPAWLORER’S Plaid Collar Set

ProsCons
The long leash allows for plenty of movement while still remaining safe at your side.The small bell, although removable, can be a hazard to some rambunctious pups.
The collar features plenty of holes to allow for adjustmentThe two small buttons on the bandana are easy to gnaw off.
Features a stylish plaid pattern, complete with bandana and bow-tie accessories.Only fits neck sizes between 9 and 11 inches doesn’t fit all dog sizes
Best Dog Collar Set
Bow Tie Dog Collar and Leash Set

•2 collar styles and a leash

•Stylish plaid fabric

•Comfortable and affordable

Check Amazon

Best Small Dog Collar: Dogline Biothane Waterproof Dog Collar

The best small dog collar is Dogline’s Biothane Waterproof Dog Collar. This collar is 100 percent waterproof, slick looking, and will last a very long time, which is why we chose it as our favorite collar for smaller companions. At around only $13 its affordable too.

The solid colors coupled with a durable black D-ring is a style change from the usual gold or silver metal and looks great. Dogline’s product comes in a variety of sizes of differing lengths and widths. Hues range from neon green to jet black.

These are great for small and medium dogs who like to romp in water or live in a rainy locale. Due to the biothane material, Dogline’s waterproof collars don’t get stinky, and they’re easy to maintain. Just a quick wipe down once a week will keep it spiffy.

Pros and Cons of Dogline’s Biothane Waterproof Collar

ProsCons
With 100% waterproof material, this collar is perfect for dogs that love to play in water.None
The biothane material is easy to clean with just a quick wipe down
The wide range of sizes accommodates many different breeds.
Best Small Dog Collar
Dogline Biothane Waterproof Dog Collar

•Waterproof material, odor-proof

•Quick release buckle

•Variety of colors

Check Amazon

Best Large Dog Collar: Black Rhino’s Neoprene Padded Dog Collar

Heavy-duty but lightweight, Black Rhino’s neoprene padded dog collar is our selection as the best large dog collar. This collar comes in four sizes – small to extra-large – and every collar is adjustable with reflective strips. Buyers can choose between nine color combinations, and it retails for about $19.

Black Rhino’s neoprene padded large dog collar is sturdy and durable while still providing the utmost comfort for your dog. With it’s heavy-duty design, this collar is perfect even for those big pooches that love to pull, meaning you don’t need to worry about it breaking or stretching.

The reflective strips are a great feature as they mean that you are your dog are always visible – even during night-time strolls.

Pros and Cons of the Black Rhino Neoprene Padded Dog Collar

ProsCons
The neoprene padding provides comfort while also preventing chafing.The heavy-duty design is not suitable for smaller dogs
A strong and durable design meaning this collar is suitable even for dogs that pull.
The reflective strips are a great safety feature for night-time walks.
Best Large Dog Collar
Black Rhino Neoprene Padded Dog Collar

•Sturdy and comfortable

•Variety of colors, ranging XS-L sizes

•All dog breeds


Check Amazon

Best Natural Dog Collar: Fuzzy Friends Hemp Dog Collar

Our selection as the best natural dog collar is the Fuzzy Friends Hemp Dog Collar. This collar is made from natural materials which are nonirritating. It is made primarily from hemp, a soft but durable plant fiber that is a great renewable source and also does not require pesticides or added fertilizers to grow. Hemp is ecologically friendly to grow as well as economically efficient. The plant fibers are also gentle on skin and perfect for dogs with skin allergies or whose skin becomes irritated easily. Cotton padding lines the inside of the collar, allowing the skin to breathe while surrounded by comfortable fabric.

The collar comes in an assortment of colors ranging from rose to blue to khaki and several colors are available as a leash-collar set. There are three sizes of the collar: small, medium, and large. Along with being affordable, environmentally friendly, and perfect for dogs with sensitive skin. The business producing the collars, Fuzzy Friends, is a small business run by a US Navy veteran and a veterinarian out of a small town in North Carolina. Supporting small businesses and placing your trust in a veterinarian-built collar is a great way choice.

Pros and Cons of the Fuzzy Friends Hemp Dog Collar

ProsCons
The natural hemp material is environmentally friendly and great for dogs with sensitive skin.The hemp material isn’t great when wet, meaning that it’s not suitable for dogs that love water.
The cotton padding provides utmost comfort for the dog
Best Natural Dog Collar
Fuzzy Friends Hemp Dog Collar

-Hemp shell lined with cotton

-Durable and comfortable

-Chemical free, hypoallergenic

-Renewably sourced material

-Small business run by US Navy veteran and a veterinarian

Check Amazon

What to Look for in a Dog Collar: Our Criteria

Many people use breathable, nylon collars covered in fun colors while others choose a sleek, leather look to blend into their dog’s fur. Choosing the right type of dog collar can be a minefield, so we’ll take a closer look at the different materials below as each have their own advantages and disadvantages.

Neoprene

Best known as “wetsuit material,” neoprene is a soft rubber material reinforced with nylon. It’s strong, highly durable, and stretches well. Water-loving dog breeds — like American water spaniels, barbets, Irish water spaniels, Portuguese water dogs, Newfoundlands, and Labrador retrievers — do best with neoprene dog collars. They’re also great for puppies and dogs with skin allergies. Unfortunately, not many companies make neoprene dog collars, so the selection is limited. Plus, they can be a bit bulkier than pure nylon options and a little less budget-friendly.

Nylon

Nylon collars are the most common and come in a wealth of styles and colors. The material is great for everyday wear — both outside and around the house. Dogs with skin irritation issues may have problems with nylon collars. In such cases, a neoprene one may work better. Also, they may stink to high heaven after a while and are difficult to clean. But they’re usually on the less expensive side, so replacing them isn’t a huge investment.

Biothane

Biothane is another collar material that’s good for water-friendly canines. The non-toxic substance is made by coating a polyester base with either polyvinyl or polyurethane. A great alternative to other options, biothane is flexible, softer than many other dog collar materials, and less expensive! Moreover, biothane is tough and lasts a long time, making it a good choice for rough and aggressive dogs who chew on their collars. Budget-wise they’re a good choice since you won’t have to buy as many as often. The only downside to biothane collars is that they can be difficult to find.

Leather

Leather is the Bentley of collar materials: it’s high-quality, lasts for years, and looks good! But leather is also the most expensive option. However, for people with a budget, they’re durable, classy, and easy to wipe. Moreover, since they’re made of a natural material, they’re better for dogs with certain skin allergies. Leather collars come in two types: flat and rolled. Use the latter for canines with thick hair that mats easily. If durability is a concern, make sure the collar is long-grain leather and not bonded leather. The latter disintegrates at a much quicker rate than the former. Like nylon, leather can start to reek after a while — which may be a consideration for people with sensitive olfactory systems.

Chain

Chain collars should only be used by professionals in controlled environments. Moreover, they should never be left on an unattended canine because the risk of self-strangulation is high, especially in colder months when the metal is less pliable. Chain collars are not an everyday option. Not only are they impractical since they don’t work properly with most leashes, but they’re also dangerous in most circumstances.

Top Dog Collars Summary

Ultimately choosing a dog collar depends on the dog itself – the breed, size, fur, temperament, etc. However, it also depends on the owner and the owner’s understanding and preference for materials, size, structure, function, and durability. Some owners are searching for a highly durable collar to use for their active, outdoor lifestyle on a highly excitable dog with tons of energy. Other owners are looking for a dainty collar to fit their lap dog whose big adventures are out the back door.

Another option is harnesses for dogs with super thick coats or who endanger themselves by pulling too hard on collars. In the end, pup and human taste come together in the decision for which collar is the best for your dog. Either way, finding the perfect fit should be fun and not a challenge.

Up Next…

Keep reading! We think you’ll like these other reviews on harnesses, dog toys, and the best dog boots.

About the Author

My passion is writing about animals. I’ve published articles on pet parrots, birds, and small animal care and reviews about pet food and products. I have an ever-evolving aviary and menagerie that has included cockatiels, parakeets, conures, European starlings, a chukar partridge, guinea pigs, dogs, and cats. I’m also the author of Faith without Labels: a Guide to Eclectic Spirituality.

Here Are the 11 Best Dog Collars: Reviewed FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) 

What is the best type of collar for a dog?

It depends. Collar choice depends on several factors, including size, breed, skin sensitivity, and water exposure. Scroll up to see our picks for best dog collars in multiple categories.

What are the safest dog collars?

Generally speaking, breakaway collars are the safest. They prevent strangulation in the event your pup gets caught in either shrubbery or the jaw of another animal.

Should dogs wear collars 24/7?

Dogs should wear collars every time they leave the house. Not only are collars needed for a leash, but they’re also ID facilitators. And pets with ID tags are much more likely to find their way back to their humans.

However, if your pet is safely inside and there’s no chance of escaping, it’s fine to remove collars and let the area’s skin breathe.

What are the best dog training collars?

Our pick for the best training collar is PetSafe's nest training dog collar, a simple option for everyday training.

Who makes the best leather dog collars?

Coach, Gucci, and Burberry — the venerated luxury brands — all make haute couture leather dog collars. But they’re costly. Our pick for the category is Moonpet’s padded full-grain leather collar.

Are prong collars safe?

Prong collars are outfitted with fang-shaped links — called “prongs” — that cut into dogs’ necks when pulled. They’re similar to choke chains, they’re inhumane, and they should not be used. No, prong collars aren’t safe.

Are shock collars safe?

This is a tricky question. On the one hand, the vibration administered by shock collars is, technically, safe and has not been shown to cause damage. Used liberally among hunters, they do work well when training pups for the hunt.

However, there’s an argument to be made that shock collars are inherently inhumane because they can cause fear, anxiety, and aggression in some dogs.

Moreover, some malfunctioning shock collars have caused electric burns.

Generally speaking, shock collars are an extreme tool that should only be used sparingly by trained professionals in highly controlled environments.

Should I harness my dog?

To harness or not to harness? It’s a question that a lot of dog owners have been asking as of late. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t simple. Whether or not to use one, in large part, depends on the dog. Some love them because they loathe things around their neck. Others find harnesses too cumbersome.

Ultimately, the only way to determine if your pup should use a harness is to get one and see if they take to it.

How do I choose the right size for my dog?

Sizing is essential when choosing a collar. To get an accurate measure of your hound’s neck:

  • Use a flexible measuring ribbon. If you don’t have one, use a shoelace or piece of string.
  • Wrap it around your pet’s neck and mark where the two ends meet.
  • Get a ruler, stretch the string parallel to it, and note the measurement that corresponds with the mark.

How do collars work?

Collars work in a variety of ways. Basic ones simply attach around the animal’s neck. These types usually contain D-rings, onto which leashes are attached and identification is hung. On the other hand, technologically enhanced training collars may emit pulses, light signals, and vibrations.

Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us? Contact the AZ Animals editorial team.