How to fit the collar?

Do not fasten the collar too tightly. You should be able to place two fingers under the collar when fastened. I t is important that your dog feels comfortable when the collar is on, and different collar types suit different breeds of dog. For example a "round" sewn dog collar is particular good for long- haired breeds of dog, and a soft air-cushion collar useful for older dogs or for ones prone to irritation around the neck area.

What type of collar should I buy?

There are a wide range of collars from high quality bridle leather to ones making a colourful fashion statement!
The choice of material and style is left to you and your pet, but here are some useful guidelines.

• leather

Leather is a natural material with a number of benefits. Made well, it looks very smart, is strong and water-repellent, however, if your pet is guilty of constantly chewing, or enjoys swimming, it may be better to invest in a synthetic fibre like nylon.

Leather is commonly used for the production of special lines for certain breeds of dog. The Bull Terrier is one of the most popular examples of beautifully handcrafted leather using a combination of bridle leather with brass decoration made to traditional patterns. Other breeds including Mastiffs, Boxers, Doberman and Rottweillers are favouring this type of collar and lead.

Other unique shaped products are made especially for whippet and greyhound collars.

• nylon

There are a bright colourful range of blue, red and black nylon and ribbon designs and tartan patterns in the latest fashion styles. Nylon is one of the strongest man made fibres which is colour fast, completely weather proof and very difficult to chew through. They are suitable for most breeds of dogs.

The Nylon Air -Cushion fabric encapsulates thousands of tiny air pockets giving a remarkable soft cushion effect for the dog and the owner. This new technology is proving very popular for dogs constantly pulling or older pets that welcome the softer feel of the material around its neck.

Nylon Ribbon leads offers the benefits of strength with the fashion colours and patterns available on the printed fabrics.

• chain

The strongest material with specially welded links making a bright but indestructible system. This type of product can be sold separately as a choke collar, chain collar or combined with leather or nylon as a check chain.

Choke collars are good for training larger dogs to walk to heel without constant pulling or straining at the leash. Used inexpertly this type of collar can cause neck or throat injuries so please take due care when using this collar.

For training purposes the Nylon and check chain collar has a lot of advantages and provides a safeguard to prevent too much pressure being put on the dogs neck.

• adjustable collars

These collars are usually made from nylon material and as the name suggests can be adjusted for a range of neck sizes, The fixing method is normally a quick release catch and the collars are used for convenience when going for a walk or bringing the dog under control.

• reflective collars

Usually of nylon construction with a special reflective thread woven into the nylon to reflect light from oncoming traffic. An excellent device for walking the dog safely at night.