How to Choose the Right Dog Collar and Leash?
There are too many types of dog collars and leashes available today. Let's figure out what works best for your pet, shall we?
It's important to always remember that the purpose of a good collar and leash is to keep your dog safe and secure. The best gear will allow you to easily navigate your dog and keep your pet from running away.
When you choose a dog collar and leash, there are 4 things you need to think through:
- Size: Of your dog and of the collar and leash as well. The collar should be snug enough so that it doesn't slip off, but also not so tight that it restricts your dog's breathing. Usually a two-finger gap is a good rule. The dog leash on the other hand should be the right length for your need. Most leashes start from 130 cm and have a longer variant with 150 cm too. Of course there are short leashes for dogs which are meant to make the dog walk extremely close to you. Some dog parents also buy an even longer traffic leash which essentially is long enough for it to have one handle in the middle and one at the end – this is meant for open areas and parks where you'd like the dog to roam more freely than real close to you. If you plan on doing a lot of walking, you'll need a longer leash. If you're just going for short walks around the block, a shorter leash will be fine.
- Material: There are a variety of materials to choose from, including nylon, fabric, leather (don't go for leather please), and metal (not this either please). Nylon collars are the most common type of collar because they are economical – they mostly have a basic look, but they're durable and easy to clean. We're anti leather and metal collars because they cause harm to other animals or the pets themselves. Now, within fabric dog collars if you can find something in organic denim (we've got quite a few organic denim collars for dogs) or in 100% cotton collars for dogs, there's nothing more comfortable for a pet than that to be honest. In fact, with fabric collars you'll also be able to find quirky dog collars with fun designs and prints that keep your pooch in with the trends.
- Features: A dog collar and leash should have all the basic features – should be easily adjustable, should have a strong D ring where you'll attach the dog leash. Most collars for dogs have a snap buckle which also needs to be sturdy. If the snap buckle on the dog collar has a lock, that's definitely a +1. Some collars come with features like reflective material. Here's a question though – do you really need this when you're walking your dog? Some features may be very important for a few pet parents, remember you know best what dog walking gear really suits you and your furry friend. Now, with regard to leashes for dogs, there are 3 important things you need in a dog leash: Firstly, it should have a dog hook / clip that is very sturdy and doesn't break. Mutt of Course uses brass for its durability – we've tried many metals and this seems to work best. At least that's what we learnt with our 14+ years of experience in the pet industry. Secondly, the handle should be soft for being able to pull when necessary – imagine pulling a metal leash or even trying to control a dog who is pulling hard. Last but not the least, the leash should be double stitched at both the ends. What good is that hardware and padded handle on the dog leash when the stitching doesn't stay, right?
- Colour: Pick the most fun colours of the collar and leash based on your pet's character. Think about your dog's fur colour and visualise how stylish the product will look on them. For heaven's sake please don't go for something basic all the time, try new things out – dogs definitely deserve better than that. Go ahead, roll the dice and take a new print for a change the next time.
Once you've considered all of these factors, you can then start shopping for a dog collar and leash set.
Here are a few expert tips to help you find the perfect dog walk gear for your pawesome friend:
- Ask a fellow pet parent: Most pet parents either have multiple sets of dog collars and leashes or change their dog's collar and leash every now and then when wear and tear happens. If you know someone who knows what they're doing or must have read up well before taking something, don't shy away from asking them what worked best for them.
- Ask the vet or trainer: If you already have a vet or have a trainer, feel free to ask them what type of dog collar and leash your dog needs. No, you don't necessarily have to buy it from them but you can always understand what they would recommend and then make an informed decision.
- Ask the pet store or brand: what collar and leash would they recommend for their pet.
- Read online reviews: This is a great way to get feedback from other dog owners about different dog collars and leashes.
Keep all of these things handy and we are sure you will find the perfect dog collar and leash for your best friend.
Needless to say, a good collar and leash will help you to keep your dog safe and secure, and they will also make walks and other activities more enjoyable for both of you.
Here are some additional things to consider for choosing the right dog collar and leash:
- Consider your dog's temperament. If your dog is a puller, you'll need a collar that is designed to prevent pulling. Our martingale collars are the best for those dogs who pull a lot on leash.
- Think about your dog's activity level. If your pet is active, you'll need a collar and leash that can withstand the pull.
- Choose a collar and leash that's easy to clean. Think about the rainy season too if you're in a state where it rains cats n' dogs.
Don't go full economy-mode on this. Remember, a good collar and leash will provide your dog with years of safety and security.
