Your dog will be wearing their collar every day so finding the best one is important. But how do you know which one is best suited for your dog? In this blog we’ve listed the top 5 things to consider when finding your perfect dog collar.
Fit
The most important factors when choosing a dog collar is the size and fit. Wearing the wrong size can have disastrous consequences. A dog can easily slip out of a collar that is too loose, and if the collar is too tight, your dog will be uncomfortable and may have difficulty breathing. Your dogs’ collar should be snug but never tight.
Quick release collars have an adjustable strap and will always provide the best fit. Buckle collars can be tricky if your dog is in between sizes. A good size guide helps, and you should always measure your dogs’ neck before choosing a collar. Keep in mind that size varies between different brands.
To test if your dogs’ collar is the right size, slide two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. If they fit comfortably, it’s the right size!
Style
The most common styles of collar are quick release and buckle collars. We’ll always go for an adjustable, quick release version because it allows for a more customised fit. It’s also easy to put on and take off. For safety it’s a good idea to opt for a collar that’s reflective.
If your dog pulls or you’re teaching them not to pull, you may want to consider a slip or head collar. These styles give quick feedback to your dog but make sure you use them correctly.
Material
Vegan leather, leather, polyester, rPET or cotton – which material is best for dog collars? It all comes down to personal preference, just make sure it’s soft and comfortable for your dog.
No collar is chew proof, but you want to ensure it’s not going to snap if your dog suddenly pulls. All seams should be cross stitched with double thread. Some collars use rivets, but stitching is generally more secure.
Your collar will get dirty so choose one that’s washable and quick drying. Not only does a wet collar smell like mildew, it can also irritate your dogs’ skin. Our dog collar and lead sets are made from rPET which is quick drying and easy to wash.
Hardware and clip design
Our collars light and have a durable quick release buckle. The buckle lays flat against your dogs’ neck, reducing the risk of skin irritations and the collar can be quickly removed in emergency situations which is why it’s our go to design.
Some designer dog brands choose a belt buckle because it looks more premium, but they do have their drawbacks. If your dog is in between sizes it’s difficult to find a perfect fit and they’re fiddly to put on and take off.
Chunky hardware, like a metal buckle, can add significant weight to the collar. For a large dog this may not be an issue, but if you have a Cavoodle or a toy breed you want something sturdy and light. Just ensure the D-ring that attaches to the lead is metal. This will ensure a secure lead attachment.
Sustainability
Most dog accessories in Australia are made from polyester but vegan leather is becoming increasingly popular. Yes, this material is vegan, but it’s not sustainable. Vegan leather is made from plastic and will take thousands of years to break down in landfill.
Ziippup dog leads and collars are made from recycled plastic bottles, also known as rPET. Unlike regular polyester and vegan leather, rPET is made from recycled post-consumer materials, not oil.