Introducing Collars and Leads to Your Dog

Collars

Introducing your new puppy to a dog collar early in her life is easy and an important part of being a dog owner. Dog collars carry your dog’s identification and rabies tag. Getting your dog used to her collar early on will provide advantages for both ID purposes and, later on, when going for walks.

The first step in getting your dog used to her collar is choosing the correct one. Collars come in five basic forms:

• Buckle Collar
  A flat or rolled collar that is adjustable due to the buckle that fastens it. It is the only type of collar recommended for puppies less than four months of age, since it will not break away easily. The buckle collar is also the only one that should be used if your dog is on a tie-out or left unsupervised. You can find nylon buckle collars, as well as leather or cotton.
• Quick-Release Collar
  Flat nylon collar that uses a plastic closure instead of a buckle. This quick-release collar is easy to get on and off. It should not be used with a tie-out, since a dog could potentially pull hard enough to release the plastic closure.  While this collar should not be used with young puppies, it is a great option for dogs older than 4 months of age.
• Choke or Slip Collar
  Generally used for corrective training purposes. A choke collar is made of cotton or chain that pulls tight against your dog’s throat and then releases when you give some slack to the lead. A choke collar or slip collar is only for stronger dogs over four months of age and should only be used with a lead (also called a leash). Neither type of collar should be used as an everyday collar or on a tie-out.
• Prong Collar
  Used for corrective training in extreme cases where your dog does not respond to any other type of collar training. Usually, it is used on strong or stubborn dogs. A prong collar is made of metal links with metal prongs turned in-ward. Again, these should only be used with a lead.
• Harnesses
  Usually used when taking your dog for a walk or run, a harness fits around your pup’s chest and front legs. It gives you more control without as much exertion, as well as less irritation to your dog’s throat or neck area. Dogs have a tendency to pull harder when pressure is put on their necks. A harness puts pressure on other areas of your dog’s body, resulting in a better walking experience for both you and your dog. A harness is not recommended for full-time use. It should only be used when taking your dog out in public or on a walk.

After you choose the right collar for your dog based on age, size, and need, you can start training your pup to comfortably wear her collar. Since collars are not initially natural to a dog, you need to spend some getting her used to it. Do not be concerned if she initially shakes her head or scratches at her new collar. Though she may resist her new collar at first, your dog will quickly become used to it and no longer even notice it.

It is best to use lighter weight buckle collars with puppies. As your puppy grows you can use heavier weight as needed for your breed. Be sure to check your puppy’s collar size frequently. Puppies grow quickly and collars can get too tight sooner than you might think. A proper fitting collar will allow you to easily slip two fingers between the collar and your puppy’s neck. If you cannot, it is time for a new collar.

Leads

You will find you puppy will accept a lead much easier if introduced slowly. With your supervision, begin by letting your puppy drag the lead around behind them so they get used to the feel of it. Follow your puppy as it walks around and gently pick up the lead and walk with them. Hold the lead high and offer verbal praise  as they walk. You want your puppy to associate positive thoughts and energy with the lead.

Do not try to teach your dog to “Heel” or any other commands at this point. You simply want them to get used to the feel of the lead and to accept it without resistance. Obedience training comes later after they have grown up a little.