Essential Tips on Dog Collar Safety

pitt bull with studded collar

Our dog’s safety and comfort is just as important as ours. After all, they are part of the family. All too often, dog owners unknowingly have their dog’s collar adjusted too tight. Here a few simple “rule of thumb” tips to assure your pup is safe. When I brought my baby basset home, one of the first concerns I had was what collar to use for her. She was only three pounds when I brought her home (she was the runt), but I knew that would soon change. Dogs like basset hounds with big chests grow constantly, so I was always worrying whether or not her collar was too tight. Whether your fur baby is small, large, or a low rider like my basset hound, adjusting your pup’s collar properly is vital to their health and comfort.

On one of my trips to the dog park, my hound dog and I met with a friend and her pup for a play date. We both noticed a Jack Russel; He was beautiful and had tons of energy, but his collar looked VERY tight. I made it a point to introduce myself to the owner of the Jack Russel because I wanted to meet her pup. When I had the pleasure of meeting “Roxi” (the Jack Russel), I attempted to slip my two fingers under her collar. Nope, my fingers could not get through. As a dog lover I immediately told the owner that her dog’s collar was too tight. Of course I was polite, but when it comes to kids and dogs I have a hard time not saying anything if I notice there is a problem. Call me an advocate for kids and dogs; I love them! Roxi’s collar was by no means dangerously tight, but tight enough to notice. Roxi’s owner was so happy I brought it to her attention. It turns out, Roxi was her first dog. The owner thought the dog’s collar had to be “secure”. There is a difference between security and safety. I took the time to show the owner of the Jack Russel how to properly adjust and check the collar. I made a new dog owner at ease and I would imagine Roxi feels better too.

Veterinarians say pet owners should check their dog’s collar every two weeks throughout the animal’s life to make sure that it’s not too tight. A collar that is on too tight can cause damage to the dog’s larynx. As I told the owner of the Jack Russel, always remember the “two finger” rule” when it comes to tightening and adjusting your dog’s collar. Use your middle finger and your index finger under the collar. If your fingers go in with ease, great. As long as three or four fingers do not fit under the collar you should be fine.

NEVER measure your dog’s neck to determine what size collar you should use. Remember-two finger rule.

Do you feel your dog’s collar needs to be tighter in the event he/she runs away?NO. If the dog’s going to get out or run away, the dog will do so with or without its collar. (In the event your dog sneaks away, play it safe and make sure a name tag with owner info is on your pup’s collar.) Click HERE to watch a helpful video on adjusting your dog’s collar.

Here at Puppytoob we love animals. I wanted to spread the word so that you can be rest assured your dog is safe and your pup is happy and comfortable.

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