Buckle up, it’s the law! Many U.S. cities require that dogs wear identification and rabies tags and be under their owners’ control when they’re out and about. That means you need the right stuff—dog collars and dog leashes—to ensure you’re both happy and comfortable when you take a stroll.
There are two types of collars: everyday dog collars and dog training collars.
Collars for everyday use come in nylon or leather. Nylon collars usually work best for puppies because they cost less and puppies grow out of collars quickly. Leather collars are stronger and last longer.
If you’ve got a longhaired dog, consider buying a rolled leather collar to keep her hair from matting or getting caught in the collar. No dog wants to suffer through a bad hair day!
The collar should be tight enough for you to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. If the collar is too loose, it may slip over her head. You’ll find a variety of colors and styles to choose from, so you can pick the perfect complement to your dog’s “coat-ure.”
If your dog has a neck problem, a harness that attaches around her chest makes a good alternative to a collar. Most harnesses don’t provide any more control than regular collars do.
Dog head collars or head halters go around your dog’s neck and over her muzzle to buckle behind her ears. Head halters let you completely control your dog’s head, which puts you unquestionably in charge. They’re perfect for shy, reluctant dogs, large, hard-to-handle dogs or dogs that pull when on a lead.
Martingale collars tighten in response to how hard a dog pulls, then relax when a dog is at rest and are perfect for dogs with narrow heads, like greyhounds, who risk slipping their collars.
The lead story
The key to leading your dog on a leash is control: You must control your dog, not vice versa. To accomplish that feat, you need a strong, reliable leash. Leashes come in leather, nylon, and cotton.
Nylon leashes often work better for puppies because they’re lighter and more expendable. (If your pup gets hold of the leash, she’ll probably launch a chew fest—and you’ll need a new one!) Make sure the stitching or braiding near the handle and the metal clasp that attaches to the collar look solid and durable.
Most leashes are 4 or 6 feet long. This is a good length, because it helps you keep tight control, which is especially important if you own a puppy or if you walk your dog in the city.
