Choosing a Dog Lead, Collar and Tag

Three of the most important dog accessories you need to procure are a lead (leash), collar and tag. It can be overwhelming to make a choice when you are bombarded by the mass selection that awaits you at local pet stores. To help you decide what’s best for you and your dog, the following is what you can consider before you go shopping.

Lead – Essentially there are two different style leads that you can buy for your dog. These include -

Standard lead – This is a 6ft. long leash that is used specifically for training and is suitable for every dog breed, regardless of the dog’s size. It allows you to have control over your dog. The best material for these leashes is leather and nylon, as they are durable and less likely to hurt your hand.

Retractable lead – A retractable leash comes in different sizes to accommodate different dogs. They generally have a plastic handle and are comfortable to hold. As was mentioned they are not ideal for training, but they are a great way to let your dog roam freely, while still keeping you in control, when out for a nice walk.

Collar – When considering a dog collar, you need to ensure that you choose one that provides your dog with comfort. Keep the following in mind –

Size – You should never buy a collar without knowing the measurements of your canine. Take a long tape measure or piece of string and measure the neck of your dog. Once you have the measurement, extend it by 2-3 inches to give your dog plenty of room, so the collar isn’t too tight or too loose that it can be pulled from your dog’s head.

To make sure the collar you are interested in buying fits your dog’s neck, place the collar on him and insert two fingers between your dog’s neck and the collar. If you can easily insert your fingers the collar is a perfect fit.

Quality and comfort – There are plenty of collars on the market but not all of them are comfortable for your dog, or durable. Therefore, make sure you get a collar that won’t pull, catch or rub at your dog’s fur. In addition, make sure the collar isn’t made of heavy material that will be too much weight for your dog’s neck. Finally, you need to make sure that the collar will be strong enough for training when you clutch your dog.

Fashion – both leads and collars come in different colors and styles. Therefore, if you’re into fashion, you can purchase a matching set that features the specific colors and patterns you like. Or you can keep it basic. Just make sure you don’t substitute quality for style.

In addition, know what styles suits your dog. For instance, although a pink rhinestone collar may be darling on a female Maltese, the color and flare certainly wouldn’t suite a male German shepherd! Nevertheless, regardless of your taste in fashion, your main goal is to make sure you and your dog are comfortable.

Tags – A dog tag is an essential ornament for your dog’s collar. It contains important details, including your contact information, and often a record of your dog’s vaccinations (IE rabies shots, etc.). This information will help reunite you and your dog in the event that he becomes lost.

Essentially, all dog tags are the same; the only difference is the style. If you want to keep it basic, a plastic tag will do. However, if you want to make the tag more personal, you can choose to have the information engraved on a metal (steel, silver, gold, etc.) one. Metal dog tags are available in different shapes. Other ideas you can consider are a photo tag where you can place a picture of you and your dog, or – for the extra special princess pooch – a diamond dog tag.

When you go shopping for a lead, collar and tag, make sure you have some specifications in mind, that way if you need assistance, you can provide the sales people with an idea of what you are looking for.

Last but not least, once you know that type of lead, collar and tags you want, don’t be afraid to shop around to find the best deal.

Tags: dog collar, dog lead, dog leash, dog tag

Category: Supplies