Designer Dog Collars - Small Dog Collars

It seems that regardless of the economy, there are two places we are not totally skimping… our kids and…our dogs. Surprised? I am not. There is an interesting psychology about what makes us feel better when times are down. For the most part, our little kids are easy to please. They like to play-play-play all day-day-day. So even if we are low on cash or feeling down, it is wonderful to experience joy through their daily discoveries. This is a natural phenomenon for most parents and helps us keep our perspective. Apart from the joy of your children, who is the most excited to see you when you walk through the front door? I don’t know about you, but - it’s my big, furry, happy German Shepherd. Dogs are naturally sweet, happy, forgiving companions. It is no wonder we develop such a unique bond with our beloved dogs.

According to the associated press, Americans will spend upwards of $43 Billion on their pets despite the slow down in discretionary spending. It seems that psychologically, if you cannot remodel your kitchen or go on that vacation, it just feels better to buy a designer dog collar for your pooch. It is just more doable to buy “Daisy” a personalized dog collar than go on than to go on that cruise. During tough times, we do tend to close ranks with our families (which includes our beloved dog), and enjoy more simple pleasures together. So just surrender to the fact that you will be buying the latest Elmo doll for your child, and who doesn’t love Elmo? You will also be splurging on dog accessories. Why? Because it is the simple pleasure that make you happy.

Be aware though as the news is not all good. It is fun to post happy-puppy photos and wax poetic about our unique bond with our dogs, however animal shelters are seeing a surge in abandoned dogs. This is attributed to the economic swamp in which we find ourselves with some people losing their homes due to foreclosure. The holidays also pose a threat to dogs with an increase in dog abandonment due holiday puppy purchases.

I recommend posting animal rescue numbers on the fridge so that you can lend a hand if need-be. Just last week a local gardener was driving his truck around our neighborhood offering puppies to anyone on the street who would take one. Unfortunately I did not really hold out much hope for the fate of those pups as it was careless to be passing them out on the street like that.

Of course the news is always mixed with the positive and negative. While we cannot save the world, we can tend to our own and, we can always remain aware of those who may need our help.

Dogs are members of our families and their unconditional love is a true gift to us. They add so much to our lives! Celebrate your dogs however you wish. Cheer yourself up with an Elmo doll for your little one, or a designer dog collar for Smoochy. But definitely be aware of the dogs in the hood that may need to be routed to the rescue groups.

Everyone is discussing the electronic dog collars out on the market right now. These collars range anywhere from very inexpensive to hundreds and hundreds of dollars. This price differential is based on the quality and purpose needed for the collar. Some base inexpensive collars have only a limited number of levels to train with.

When you press the button the collar does not always receive an immediate transmission. Sometimes there is a delayed reaction. This is what you get from the very inexpensive dog collars. They also use regular batteries so at any given time the juice may run out and unless you have a ready supply on hand you may not be able to continue training.

When you stimulate your dog the dog’s neck can get burned. This is a myth as the electric shock received is only a static shock and will not harm the dog. The redness on the dogs neck from the collar is known as pressure rub and comes from the collar being on too long and being too right. If you put anything on your skin for a length of time and do not remove it you will have irritation and this is no different with your dog.

Take the collar off after training.

Using an electronic dog collar should require the assistance of a dog trainer to show exactly the correct and proper way to teach your dog the stimulation and what it means. Training should always be done at a very low level.

Another myth is that the collar and correction will take the dogs spirit away. This is exactly untrue, however, if you have a dog that has never been corrected before you will see a change in them. It is always important to determine the temperament of your dog. Some dogs will not need anything more than the vibration only mode and some will need a higher level to understand they have to listen to you.

Think if this like your children. Some children who get close to a hot stove will never go close to it again after being told to stay away, some will come back and keep tempting but never touch it but keep testing their parent until they get a punishment and others will continue until they touch it and finally get burned even after being told not to do it. The last child got a hard correction by the stove because they did not want to listen the first or second time being told and the harsh punishment taught them it was painful to touch that, I guess my parent was correct. Some dogs are no different and your dog may be very sensitive and not go by the trash after being told no, others will continue to test and get close until others get into the trash and need a harsh punishment.

Once you determine your dogs level you can train accordingly.

You know with all the types of dog collars available I thought I would do a review on the one that I had to use to train my English Mastiff on. Now the type of collar that I used on him was recommended to me by a professional dog trainer who helped me size it because of his huge thick neck is a pinch collar. Now granted at times if you use this type of collar you might not have this problem depending on the breed of dog. Now like most things the collar that I have has pluses and minuses.

Now one of the big pluses for this collar is the flexibility it allows you to have with adjusting it. Instead of like most collars that when your dog outgrows the collar you have to get a new one, with this collar you do not. If it is the style that I have you just have to purchase extra links to put into the collar. The links are fairly inexpensive when you compare it to purchasing a new collar every month to two while your dog is growing.

The other large plus with the pinch collar is that it does not choke your dog. The pinch collar just simply pinches your dog’s neck like his mother would to correct him. The pinching like the mother actually works better than choking them because it reminds them that you are in control just like when their mother was in control when they were pups.

The nice thing about the pinch collars is that typically most of them will have a quick release feature. This will enable your dog to break free of the collar is too much pressure is placed on it. This works great if he has broken free from you and gets hung up on a tree branch or low lying shrub.

The downside is that the quick release can work two ways though. You can have him trigger the quick release if he starts to pull on the leash really hard while being walked. Now this can be a problem, but if he is trained right he will stop and come back. That can be troublesome though if he does see another animal that he really wants to get after and triggers it.

Overall the pinch collar is a great training tool for you and your dog. The dog will benefit by being corrected with a pinch instead of a choke, and you will benefit because the collar is cheaper.

Collar is one of the most indispensable tools for your Labrador training. A collar is a piece of material, could be made of nylon, metal, cotton or leather, and placed around the neck of a dog. It is often used for control, identification, fashion and other purposes. Imagine taking your dog for a walk without a collar and a leash. Your curious little one may end up running everywhere without thinking of his safety. What if a speeding car is coming towards him? Poor little dog…

Identification is another purpose of your dog’s collar. Information such as dog’s name, owner’s name and address are placed on dog collars so that in case of loss, there is a greater chance of seeing your dog again. No more poor owners worriedly looking for there lost dogs in every corner of the street.

There are different types of collars. There are basic collars as well as training collars. The different training collars are as follows:

Slip collars- Slip collars are also termed choke chains, slip chains or choke collars. They are often made of braided nylon, cotton or leather and form a loop around the top of the dog’s neck, just behind the ears. The leash is attached to the ring that goes over the back of the dog’s neck. The ring could either be dead or live ring. When the leash is attached to the dead ring, the collar does not constrict on the dog’s neck. However, attach it to the live ring and the chain will slip tighter when pulled and slips looser when the tension is released. It is important that you know the proper use of this collar because improper may lead to injury and even death of your beloved companion.

Prong collar- Prong collars are also termed pinch collars. This is used to control or correct the dog by yanking on its neck if he does not comply. Prong collars are series of chain links with blunted open ends turned towards the dog’s neck. When the collar is tightened, it pinches the loose skin around the dog’s neck. Prong collars can also be turned inside out with the prongs facing away from the dog’s skin. Some trainers place rubber tips on the end of the prongs to protect your dog’s skin from scratching or puncturing.

Martingale collars- Martingale collar has two loops; the smaller one is the control loop which tightens gently when pulled to prevent dogs from slipping out of the collar. Martingale collar has limited constriction on the dog’s neck and applies even pressure.

Electronic collars- Electronic collars are sometimes called remote and shock collars. To correct the dog, electronic collars deliver an electrical stimulus to the dog. The level of stimulus varies depending on the dog. If the dog continues to disobey, the intensity is increased.

Whatever the type of collar you are going to use on your Labrador training, it is always important to consider the proper use and fit of the collar. The collar should not be too loose or too tight for your dog. And do not forget to ask an expert on the proper use of these collars.

In many areas of the United States, there are laws requiring that dogs sport appropriate dog collars with identification and wear them at all times when outside the home. This is to have a firm place to attach a leash and also to be able to provide identification in the instance that your best friend is ever separated from you.

Contrary to popular belief, dog collars are not the type of thing that you just go out and grab one of; each dog has a different need when it comes to dog collars and this need can make a difference when it comes to your dog’s daily activity, obedience level, and size.

Leather Dog Collars

Leather dog collars are a popular, stylish option for any canine. They are a bit on the expensive side, at least when it comes to genuine leather, but pet owners do get what they pay for. These collars are great for larger dogs that tend to want to walk their owners instead of being walked themselves, as leather is tough and durable.

Beware of the water-prone dog with the leather collar, though. Water can soften and dry even the priciest of leather collars, putting you in a potentially tricky situation if your dog decides to chase after a squirrel someday and the collar gives out. Polishing does help, but if your dog swims, you should consider a fabric dog collar.

Fabric Dog Collars

Fabric collars are great as well. Many pet owners hesitate to go after these because leather collars are so much more visually appealing and tend to last longer, but the fabric collars are the best option for those pups who enjoy an occasional dip now and again. Fabric will never weaken from moisture, and that is more than can be said for most leather collars on the market.

Choke Chain Collars for Dogs

Choke collars are great options for those pets out there that have a bit more strength, like the American Pit Bull Terrier, Rottweiler, German Shepherd, and Great Dane. These can be worn in addition to leather or fabric collars, but should be used as the primary collar as far as the leash is concerned.

These collars are said to be a bit cruel, but they are excellent when it comes to training and aren’t cruel at all-you might be surprised by the things your dog can take. Never leave your dog unattended with this type of collar, as it creates a very dangerous situation that all pet owners want to avoid.

Finding the right dog collar for your pet sounds easy, but there are so many to choose from that it can be a bit overwhelming. You may be tempted to go with the cheapest and while price is always a consideration, there is no sense in paying half the price of the collar that you need for a collar that you have to replace three to four times a year. When ti comes to dog collars, you get what you pay for-keep that in mind!

If you are considering of getting new pets such as English bulldogs, you are probably aware of the necessary stuff these four-legged creatures need. One of the things that must be included in the list of must-haves for pets is collar - a piece of material placed around the neck of a dog. While some use collars for fashion purposes, a lot are using it for identification and control. Tags containing identification and medical information are often placed on dog collars. A collar is especially beneficial when it comes to English bulldogs training since this this helps in controlling a dog by providing a handle for grabbing.

Choosing the perfect collar for Fido can be confusing due to the fact that there are various types of it for you to choose from. Types of dog collars include:

Buckle Collars
As the name implies, this type of collar is fastened with a buckle. Either flat or rolled, buckle collars are usually made of nylon webbing or leather although materials such as cotton, hemp or metal can also be used. The good thing about buckle collars is that they do not tighten on the dog’s neck once fastened. Identification is often attached in this type of collar.

Slip Collars
Also called choke chains, chokers or slip chains, this type of collar is used for training purposes only. It could be made of nylon rope, cotton or leather with “O” rings at the end so that the collar can be formed into a loop (making a “P” shape) around the top of the dog’s neck. The rings at the end of the collar are either dead ring (floating ring) or live ring. If a leash is attached to the live ring, the chain will tighten else the collar will not tighten if the leash is attached to the dead ring. This type of collar should be used properly during English bulldogs training to prevent injury or death due to choking.

Prong Collars
Just like slip collars, this type of collar is ideal for training purposes also. Prong collars, also called pinch collars are series of chain links with blunted open ends turned towards the dog’s neck but can also be turned inside out in such a way that the prong is facing away from the dog’s skin. Despite it’s harsh appearance, study shows that there is no neck, back or trachea injuries found provided the collar is used properly.

Other collars include martingale collar, flea collar (to repel fleas), break-away collars and stud collars.

To choose the remote dog training collar is one of the most popular ways to train your favorite pet and man’s best friend. These remote electronic dog training collars help us train our pet, for a family pet, or for your use in a profession. The remote training electronic dog collars will allow your pet to achieve a new level of obedience. The problem is there are many different types of remote dog training collars available and you are not sure what you need. Electric Dog Collar Electronic dog collars have come a long way over the years. A good remote electric dog collar should have good range. To teach the dog using electronic dog training collar, it should be worn for at least a couple of weeks. You should also make sure to take off the electric dog collar 4-5 times a day. This removing the electric dog collar will teach the dog to remember the shock feeling with the electronic collar being off. That way the dog learns that this is a good feeling. You should also teach the dog using electronic dog training collar in a fenced area. The shock amount should be enough to just turn the dogs head. Use it Like a Leash CorrectionUsing electronic dog training collar is nothing more than a leash that is not there (invisible). The electric dog collar should be used in the same way as you would use a leash.The dog should be introduced to the electric dog collar. To think that just by putting the electric dog collar on the dog will train animal, this is incorrect. The act of putting the dog collar on the dog has meaning for the dog, rotating the prong all have meaning. You must also learn the art of pushing the buttons to get the best results.

Some people say that using the electric dog collar is like eating chocolate. There is nothing wrong with eating small amounts, but then there are some who think this is wrong. Never the less, used in small amounts, both are harmless and the dog likes both of them. The harm occurs when there is too much chocolate eaten, but no one has a hard and fast rule to what is OK for the dog and what is not. The electric dog collar gives out a small electric shock and should not be what you would get if you stuck your finger in an electric outlet.A cheap dog shock collar should be subtle in the way that they work. On cheap dog shock collars, you should use a level of shock that is minimal to achieve the obedience that you need. The shock should not frighten or hurt the animal. It can be quite easy to be abusive using electronic dog training collar. For this reason the average dog owner should not use the electric dog training collar.You need some experience when using electric dog training collar. The biggest thing is the dog should not be the one treated inhumanely or with cruelty. This is easy to do if you are careless in using the electric dog collar. You have to understand how the dog is feeling, and how the dog is reacting to the level of shock that is being emitted.What you have to do is determine the purpose of using the electric dog collar or consider the alternatives to make sure the dog is treated properly as well as trained with the best of care.For more information on this topic as well as other pet topics then visit: Remote Dog Training Collar

Every dog owner must have a dog collar and leash for they treasured companion. With the huge pet supply market available today, there are dog collars and leashes ranging from very inconspicuous, plain ones to absolutely gorgeous, extravagant ones that make people stare. Because we love our treasured pets so much, we want to give them the best that we can afford. We can make our dogs look stylish, unique, cute or fashionable with a new dog collar and leash. Along with being fashionable, dog collars have a practical use, which is holding your pet’s identification tags. This is extremely important if your dog ever gets lost as the identification tag gives information such as your pets name, your name, full address, telephone number and even veterinarians name and phone number. You can attach the dog’s rabies tag and if the pet has medical problems, a tag with its medical conditions.

Make sure when shopping for a dog collar it is the perfect fit for your pet. Any collar needs to be safe and comfortable so measuring for a collar is extremely important. With the tape measure around your pet’s neck, insert two fingers under it, take this measurement and add a couple of inches. Dog collars usually come in even number sizes such as eight inches, ten inches etc. If your dog’s neck measures nine inches, go the next size up. The collars come in a variety of widths and fastening devices so make an educated, smart decision when choosing a collar.

Just as we wear different jewelry or clothes on occasions, your dog can have a wide variety of fabulous collars and leashes. Never use a wide collar, as it will irritate your dog’s throat. Make sure that the collar and leash are strong enough to hold your pet safely if he sees something to chase after.

Buckle dog collars are usually rolled or flat and made of leather, nylon or cotton. You adjust these collars to fit your pets neck, but they do not tighten, once on. Round collars are great because they do not break the dog’s hair or chafe.

Breakaway collars, invented to keep a dog from choking if their collar catches on something, releases when yanked hard. This is a wonderful safety feature that saves many dogs lives. When used with a lease, the breakaway collar stays fastened.

Greyhound limited slip collars or limited slip collars are great for dogs that pull out of their collars. They are a cross between quick-release collars and slip collars. These adjustable collars tighten when the dog pulls but do not choke the dog.

Some of the other wonderful collars and leashes on the market are:

· Rhinestone studded collars and leashes
· Reflective collars and leashes
· Collars and leashes with paws, hearts and other patterns
· Studded leather collars
· Collars available in all colors
· Personalized collars with your pets name

No matter what type of collar or leash you select for your pampered companion, from very inexpensive to shockingly costly, your pet’s safety comes first.

My dog was completely out of control and not unlike others I saw being taken for a walk by their pooch. Does this ring any kind of bell for you? Is your dog allowing you to walk with him/her? Do you dread the walk an look forward to it being over and done with? If the answer is even close to yes, then a Halti collar might be your answer.

Halti dog collars have been invented for those dog owners who are not as strong as their dog physically or mentally, and those petite owners who are lucky enough to weigh less than their canine companion.

Haltis are designed so that the dog can have their pointing straight ahead and they also come in a number of varying sizes (thank goodness). When you gently pull on the leash, the halti collar brings the dog’s head around in the direction you are steering, ensuring that the rest of Fido’s body follows in the same direction.

Halti head collars can be used successfully on dogs of any age. Older dogs are used to being spoiled or getting their way but a younger dog or puppy will adapt really quickly. Eventually, Spot will be just as well behaved as most of the other puppies and dogs in your area if not better behaved.

If you’re thinking of leash training or maybe you’re a little elderly, then you’ll understand that the last thing you want to do is cause any pain for your dog or yourself for that matter.

Halti head collars are not designed to leave on your dog on a permanent basis. After the walk is it important the collar be removed. Otherwise there is a small but real risk of your dog tangling up his collar with household objects resulting in serious injuries (even strangulations).

Halti collars are not supposed to be used with a yanking motion. A gentle pull in the desired direction is all that is needed to have Fido sticking to the chosen path. Halti head collars are also not designed for allowing Fido to run extremely fast to the end of the leash. This style of activity will have Fido bouncing back like a furry yo-yo, and could result in spinal whiplash injuries.

All in all, halti head collars are ideal for the out of control dog, or the owner who is overwhelmed physically or mentally. If your dog is a large breed, you will be pleased to hear that the control of your dog is much greater with a Halti. With a Halti, wrenched shoulders and suffocating canines will be all over.