How to Pick The Right Leash & Collar for Your Dog

Why is it important to pick the right leash & collar for your dog?

Leashes and collars are the most essential tools for your dog. In most areas, you’re required to have a leash and collar on your pet while they’re outside. But there are so many different types; options can be overwhelming. So, which leash and collar are the best for your dog? Find out below!

Simple Leash & Collar

If walking your dog is usually a breeze, a simple leash might be a great option. I recommend this for easygoing, happy-go-lucky dogs, without obedience problems.

Quick Tip: It’s important to establish your position in the pack. So, remember to make sure to walk your dog by your side or behind you.

Slip Training Collar

The training leash is best suited for dogs with issues on walks. If your dog gets distracted easily, this type of collar allows for quick corrections to get them back on track. It is also recommended for puppies after they get used to wearing a collar.

Quick Tip: Give a quick, firm pull sideways on the leash. If you pull straight back, your dog will pull against you. Instead, by giving a sharp tug to the side, you knock your dog off balance and get their attention. Always keep your dog’s safety in mind when giving corrections! If you are unfamiliar with how to use the tool, talk to a local professional or ask someone at the store for help.

Pack Leader Collar

If you’ve tried a slip collar but had trouble, the Pack Leader Collar may be the solution. I would recommend it for dogs that have a problem walks, particularly with pulling.

If you place the collar on the lower part of the neck, you’re actually helping your dog pull you around. Watch an Alaskan sled dog pulling a load. The harness fits around the base of the neck because this is where dogs have the most control.

Quick Tip: Keep your dog’s head up. Remove his nose from distractions on the ground; This way, his focus will be on you and the route.

Dog Harness

The harness can be a great tool if you want your dog to pull you. For example, if you want your dog to pull you around while you ride your bike or use rollerblades.

This is also a safe option for dogs with pushed-in faces that restrict breathing, such as pugs, dogs with trachea or throat problems, such as Pomeranians, and dogs with elongated, overly slender necks, such as Greyhounds, may have to avoid certain collars, such as slip collars.

Quick Tip: No matter what collar you use, pay attention to your energy. A leash is a form of communication. Without a word, you’re telling your dog where to go, what speed to walk, and when to stop. Take note of your body language on your next walk. Stand up tall with your head up and shoulders back. This energy will flow through the leash to your dog.

Visibility Leash & Collar

Visibility is key for safety when walking your dog at night, which is why bicyclists use lights and reflectors. You can buy a reflectorised harness or use reflective tape. Better yet, illuminated leashes and collars a great for walking your pup at night.

The first step before selecting any collar should always be to talk with your veterinarian. He or she can take your dog’s medical and breed background into account. If your dog has extreme behavior issues on walks, I recommend reaching out to a dog behavior specialist in your area. In fact, behavior issues are something else that Spot includes in its pet insurance coverage!