First, there is the standard buckle collar. The collar below is rolled leather, the kind Murphy, my Lab, wears. This collar is for your dog's tags: rabies, I.D., local registration (as required), etc. This collar stays on your dog at all times, except when he is crated or kenneled. All collars should be removed when crating because dog's have been known to choke to death - somehow getting their collars entangled in the metal parts of a crate or kennel.
One of the best solutions for young dogs and dogs who pull is a front-connecting body harness. The best are the Halti and the Sensation. The key to success with both of these harnesses is that the leash is attached to a ring on the chest. Why is that important? Because it's the dog's center of gravity. Uses? These harnesses are great for small people with big dogs, dogs with neck injuries, and dogs for whom nothing else works. A body harness does not replace proper dog training. If you do not have a positive dog trainer in your life, contact me.
A Martingale collar is terrific if you have a well-behaved dog and simply need a collar that is safe. The Martingale goes on over the dog's head. When adjusted properly your dog cannot slip out of it. I consider this collar insurance. I've seen way too many dogs get scared or excited and back out of a buckle collar, run away and then not come when called. This collar goes on your dog only when the leash does. Left on all the time, your dog can conceivably get his jaw caught in it's loop (not an issue when attached to a leash, if it's the right size).
I recommend a four-foot leash for daily use. Leather is my preference since a good leather leash will last for years and is easy on the hands (especially with big pully dogs). If you need a double-ended leash (for the Halti harness) try the leather version offered at Southeastern Guide Dogs (below).
No comments:
Post a Comment