Dog Collars – An Essential Dog Accessory.

Although they are often used as fashion accessories, dog collars are also important in some aspects of dog training.  Many people opt for designer dog collars that have rhinestones, fuzzy linings, or other decorations without realizing the true purpose behind the collar.

While puppies may look fashionable in leopard-spotted neckwear, it may make sense to use a more standard collar for the purpose of training your dog.  Collars are intended to give owners control over their pets, usually by attaching a leash with which the dog can be held at rest or urged in different directions.  Teaching a dog to “heal” or even to keep the pet from running off from its owner would be nearly impossible without a collar.

Also, collars provide a means of identifying a lost dog.  Owners should always be sure that their dogs’ collars prominently display tags with names and phone numbers or addresses for purpose of return, should the dog become lost.

However, some owners continue to shower their dogs, cats, and other pets with elaborately decorated collars, some of which might even be inhibiting to the dog.  For instance, putting a thick, fuzzy collar on a small puppy might make it hard to eat without making a mess or even hard to get around, depending on just how small the dog is.  Also, spiked collars on Pitbulls and Rottweilers may be all in good fun, but such collars can be dangerous to both the dog and its owner.

Many local and state authorities have laws requiring walked dogs to be on a leash, which means that a collar is required.  Even if the law does not state that it is necessary, it is always recommended.  A dog on a leash can be kept from wandering into the street or even attacking another dog in a territorial dispute.

So, while collars can be used as a fashion statement, they should be considered as more of a utility than an optional accessory.

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