There are a large range of dog collars currently available. Each collar has their pros and cons. We’ve put together some information on each type of collar bellow to hopefully help you make a decision on what collars suits your dogs needs.
Tactical Collars
A tactical collar is a term used to describe a variety of dog collars that predominately focus around being a practical solution for dog handling and working dogs. They often feature uprated and feature more durable materials.
It becomes even more important to choose the correct hardware when you have a strong dog breed or a dog that loves to pull. That’s why many owners are now looking to higher quality products. Dog collar failure is not something you want to experience at a busy road or when your loved one spots a cat! A strong dog can snap weakly built dog collars made with cheap hardware and leave you standing with an empty lead.
Main differences between a tactical dog collar and regular collar:
Tactical – Wide Nylon collars that often feature a handle along with a metal buckle or a double roller buckle
Regular – Normally thinner and are secured with a plastic clasp
Choker Chains
As the name implies, this collar is made of metal links and is designed to control your dog by tightening around your dog’s neck. It is supposed to sit high up on the dog’s neck just behind their ears. As there is no way to control how much the choke chain tightens, so it’s possible to choke or strangle your dog. It can also cause other problems, too, such as injuries to the trachea and esophagus, injuries to blood vessels in the eyes, neck sprains, nerve damage, fainting, transient paralysis and even death. It is best for your dog if you avoid using a choke chain. More humane collars and good obedience training should make it unnecessary to resort to this aversive collar.
Prong/Pinch Chains
Firstly it is important to understand how prong collars work. ‘Prong’ or ‘Pinch’ collars are based on the principle of applying something painful or frightening to stop an undesirable behaviour – very simply, when a dog pulls on the lead, the prongs of the collar close around the neck which can cause pain or discomfort which reduces the chance of the dog pulling on the lead again. Research has shown that aversive training techniques, like prong collars, can cause pain and distress and can compromise dog welfare. Now while the use of a prong collar can help with a dog that behaves in an undesirable way when on a lead. It must be noted that unless the prong collar stops the dog from pulling and lurching the collar can be incredibly damaging to a dogs neck. In ideal world, the collar would act as a deterrent for the dog and no longer pull. If this isn’t the case and you will need to ensure your dog has the correct obedience training either by yourself or a professional.
Cuban Stainless Steel Chain Collars
Stainless Steel Chain Collars are what we call ‘Marmite’ collars – You either love them or hate them!
- Advantages: They are the most durable collars on the market. Constructed of 100% 316L Stainless Steel ensures these will stand the test of time. They will not wear, rust or corrode. If your dog loves a mud bath, you’ll just need to wipe the collar clean! Check out our Stainless Steel Chains here.
- Disadvantages: Can be too heavy for smaller dogs
Nylon Collars
Nylon collars are made from soft durable webbing that will give your dog ultimate comfort during activity. Since they are so lightweight and comfortable, many dogs are not bothered by wearing a nylon collar all day long, making them perfect for everyday use. While out walking, nylon collars can often be a dog’s favourite to wear as they are lightweight and soft. The best thing about nylon collars is that they are easy to transition from various activities. Our tactical collars are a great choice for a practical every day nylon collar.
- Advantages: They are inexpensive, strong, and durable. They come in a huge range of sizes, colours, and styles. It’s also easy to find leads that match the collars. These collars are easy to clean and maintain.
- Disadvantages: They might irritate the skin and break the hair shafts of your dogs coat. Cheaper Nylon collars tend to lose their looks over time, as the fabric begins to fray around the edges and the original colour fades. On the flip side, their low cost doesn’t make this too much of an issue.
Leather Collars
Leather dog collars have been a huge part of dog ownership for many years. Historically leather was primarily the only material widely available for dog collars and they were always the premium offering in terms of dog wear – often adorned in studs and metal fixings. That been said, times are changing. Not only are dog owners looking for more ethical products, there is also a much wider selection of dog neck wear available.
- Advantages: Premium look & durable
- Disadvantages: Need maintaining, unethical & sometimes expensive
As a dog owner it’s incredibly daunting when it comes to choosing a collar. We would always recommend choosing a collar that is both practical and comfortable such as a tactical nylon collar. Nylon collars are incredibly durable and reasonably prices. They can easily be washed and dried which is very important for those mucky pups out there.