Dog obedience and training > Information > How to Properly Fit a Dog Collar

How to Properly Fit a Dog Collar

Properly putting a collar on your dog may not be as easy as you think. If your dog does not like collars or you have a puppy that isn't used to collars yet, he may have some objections to you putting one on him. It will take a while for your dog to get used to the feeling of having a collar around his neck.

Keeping a collar on your dog will help him to get used to it being on and you won't have to fight every time you need him to wear one. This will also save you time when you want to take your dog for a walk. Instead of wasting time fighting to get the collar on, all that needs to be done is to hook the leash onto the collar.

When you do put a collar on your dog, make sure it is the right size. There are different sizes of collars for different sized dogs. After choosing the right size and color for your dog, take it home and put it on. When you approach the dog, be calm and friendly so that he is not nervous. Playing with your dog before attempting to put his collar may make him settle down enough so that he will sit still and let you put the collar on.

Have the collar in your hand with the clasp in the left and the rings in your right and approach your dog. Put the collar under the neck and wrap it around to the top. Now close the collar so that it will stay on your dog. Keep in mind that your dog will probably flex his neck while you are putting the collar on.

To make sure you have the collar adjusted to the right size, see how many fingers you can easily fit under the collar. Waiting five minutes after you put the collar on is a good idea. This allows the dog time to relax his neck muscles, allowing you to get a better fit. You should be able to fit two fingers under the collar; if it is more or less, you will need to adjust accordingly. A collar that is too tight can hurt the dog and a collar that is too loose will make it easy for your dog to slip out of.

Making sure the collar fits properly is very important, so make sure you take your time and do it right. If your collar is too loose, he will be able to slip out of it when you are out walking. This is not good for puppies, or for dogs who are new to your home. If your dog gets loose, he may run and get lost or hurt. The collar needs to fit well so that you can train your dog how to go for walks with you. The tension on the leash is how your dog learns to accept responsibility for his actions.

By Andi McBreaty of Oh My Dog Supplies - where you'll find dog carriers in 32 luxury fashions