At what age can a puppy wear a flea collar? Which to choose?

A collar is a must-have accessory for dogs living in urban environments. It is important that it is comfortable, safe, durable, suitable for your pet, and easy to use. The editors of Petstory have collected both the main criteria by which you can choose a collar for a dog, and the types of collars with a rating of the best.

Rating of dog collars

When compiling the top rating, the opinion of leading dog handlers and veterinarians was authoritative. Their experience determined the main characteristics by which they were able to select worthy models from the assortment on sale. Namely:

• Type of ammunition;
• Materials used;
• Width Length;
• Purposes of application;
• Functionality;
• Quality of fittings;
• Color and shape of the product;
• Strength, wear resistance;
• Certification, marking from the manufacturer;
• Equipment, warranty periods.

The result of a comprehensive study and comparison of these parameters was a top list of 12 positions. To make it easier for the reader to search, we have divided it into 5 categories. These are products with GPS function, training, ordinary everyday, strict collars and choke collars.

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Trademarks and brands

The list of brands and brands involved in the production of dog equipment is quite large.

Professional brands are considered:

• Hunter (Germany) – collars made of genuine leather, nylon and biothane (nylon coated with polyurethane).
• Collar (Ukraine) – collars made of genuine leather.
• Dogger (Russia) – collars made of genuine leather.
• ForDogTrainers (Israel) – parfors, collars made of metal and genuine leather, nylon.
• Sprenger (Germany) – parfors and metal collars (half-choke and noose).
• K9 (Belarus) – collars made of nylon, metal and genuine leather.

Everyday ammunition, more affordable, is produced by:

• Rogz (South Africa) – collars made of nylon and metal.
• Ferplast (Italy) – nylon collars.
• Trixie (Germany) – collars made of leatherette, nylon, metal.
• Arkon (Russia) – collars made of genuine leather.

For everyday use, you can purchase inexpensive collars (Trixie, Arkon, etc.). For training, it is better to choose professional and more expensive ammunition (Hunter, Springer, etc.).

Best GPS Collars for Dogs

The biggest fear of a dog owner is losing him. To protect both animals and humans from such danger, special GPS collars or trackers, as they are also called, were invented. We studied several dozen products, but according to reviews, 2 nominees were recognized as the best.

Garmin TT 15

A special collar for dogs with a GPS navigator from the American brand Garmin, which tracks the dog at a distance of up to 14 km. Suitable for distance training using continuous and short-term current (18 modes).

The 26 mm wide collar is presented by the manufacturer in 2 colors: green and black. A highly sensitive GPS receiver is built into its upper part, which uses the Glonass satellite navigation system. The case is made of durable waterproof material that can withstand immersion in water to a depth of 10 m.

The accessory is autonomous, multifunctional. Equipped with 2 LED beacons that glow in the dark, rescue mode. Compatible with Alpha 100, Alpha 50 and Astro 320 for tracking purposes. Battery life lasts 20-40 hours.

Advantages:

• Determining coordinates using GPS and Glonass;
• Good signal range;
• 20-40 hours of autonomy;
• LED beacons;
• Waterproof material;
• Vibration stimulation for training purposes.

Flaws:

• Price;
• There is no built-in DVR.

The model can use vibration stimulation mode when working with the Alpha 100 device. This is necessary for training and remote command delivery. Despite the lack of video, it is possible to connect an action camera.

Tractive GPS Dog

To control your pet during walks and for hunting, a tracker with a remote control from the Austrian company is presented, which turns the collar into a GPS beacon. All its functionality can be accessed using the Tractive GPS mobile application.

The black device detects and records the dog’s activity and the total time spent on the street. Its shape easily fits onto any collar. The sensor material is impact-resistant plastic, which is 100% waterproof. There is an option for programming basic commands and saving history for 24 hours.

Compact dimensions of 7.2x2.9 cm with a weight of 29 g are suitable for dogs weighing no more than 4 kg. The battery lasts 2-5 days, to recharge you need to unfasten the tracker latch by pressing the 2 middle buttons located at the top and bottom.

Advantages:

• Instant determination of geoposition;
• Long battery life;
• Compactness;
• Waterproof;
• Memorizing history;
• Reliable fastening.

Flaws:

• There are places where there are no GPS signals;
• Dogs weighing up to 4 kg.

If you set certain geolocation parameters in the mobile application, then when you leave the zone, you receive an instant notification. The location in the “Live Tracking” mode is updated every 2-3 seconds.

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Best Dog Training Collars

The second category of the top represents not just collars, but an additional measure for training and educating the dog. In moments of disobedience, it will be possible to influence it with vibration, sound signal, or electrical impulse. Among the presented electronic models, VyborExpert selected 3 leaders.

Collar Remote Pet Training

Ukrainian presents an electronic collar that affects dogs using a discharge of current, sound, and vibration during daily training. Suitable for animals of any size.

Made of nylon, adjustable with a strap (up to 55 cm). It is not afraid of dirt, dust, and is waterproof. The battery holds a charge for a long time, it is enough for 60 days of active work. The device is recharged up to 400 times. During operation, it vibrates, emits a sound signal, and if the animal does not obey, it delivers a weak electric shock.

The dog is monitored at a distance of up to 300 m. If it is in a calm state, the motion sensor automatically turns off after 4 minutes, this saves battery. The model is suitable for pets weighing from 2 to 90 kg.

Advantages:

• Aesthetics;
• Adjustable strap;
• Quickly receive training results;
• Waterproof;
• Long active battery life;
• Inexpensive.

Flaws:

• May cause anxiety in some dogs at the beginning of use;
• Large animals require a muzzle.

Training with the help of such a collar is carried out sequentially. The animal feels comfortable and does not try to remove it. The manufacturer recommends using the device to stop barking in order to teach him to walk nearby on a leash.

Aetertek AT-919C

For dogs weighing over 10 kg, a professional waterproof electric collar with an “Anti-bark” function is presented. Range of action – up to 1 km. Suitable for walking aggressive breeds. Manufacturer: Chinese.

The adjustable polyurethane belt up to 70 cm has 10 modes of sound, vibration and electrical stimulation. Metal fittings. The shockproof remote control is equipped with a backlit display. The magnetic key activates and deactivates the receiver. The orange buttons are clearly visible in the dark.

Receiver size 8x4.5x3 cm, weight with collar 120 g. Compact remote control 14x5x3 cm and weighing 115 g fits in a bag or pocket. The battery charge lasts for 2 days of active use. Suitable for breeds weighing from 10 to 85 kg.

Advantages:

• Coverage range;
• Reducing the animal's aggressiveness;
• Belt adjustment;
• Impact resistance of the remote control;
• Presence of a magnetic key;
• Management efficiency.

Flaws:

• No sleep mode;
• Price.

During initial use, synchronization of the remote control and device is required. To do this, they are brought close to each other and activated. The functions here have everything you need - vibration and sound signal, training an electrical impulse.

Patpet T720

Functional collar with electric shock, range of 1 km. Offers 100 pulse modes. The advantage is that using the remote control and purchasing additional collars, you can train up to 3 dogs at the same time.

The adjustable collar for neck circumference from 24 to 69 cm has 3 correction functions - sound, vibration signal, electric pulse. Lighting is provided to help you search for your dog in the dark. The “Anti-bark” mode prevents unwanted barking and pacifies. The remote control and receiver are powered by 650mAh batteries, which are fully charged in 2 hours.

The walkie-talkie, measuring 4.5x14.5x2 and weighing 72 g, is equipped with a high-quality backlit liquid crystal display. It has simple controls, as there is a separate button for each function. Receiver 3.5x5.5x2 cm, weighing 86 g.

Advantages:

• Large range of action;
• 100 pulse levels;
• Simultaneous training of up to 3 dogs;
• Backlit display;
• Anti-bark mode;
• Fast battery charging.

Flaws:

• Not for prolonged stay in water;
• Reduced coverage during bad weather.

An electric collar with a weak level of water resistance. It can be used in rain or snow, but is not suitable for diving or staying in water for long periods of time. The model is charged via a USB cable.

Best Regular Dog Collars

These are models made from high-quality materials that ensure reliability and comfortable wearing. Among three dozen models of domestic and imported production, 3 nominees became the best according to Vyborexperta.ru.

Triol Night City lanyard S 11271021/11271023

A Russian cord-shaped collar for small dogs is designed for daily walking. The model is convenient in the dark, as it has bright, but not harsh on the eyes, LEDs.

The product is made of soft rubber, adjustable in length, there are marks for cutting off excess. When worn, it does not cause discomfort to the pet. Plastic finish. The collar is presented in 2 colors – blue and light green. It can be used in rainy or snowy weather.

Mixed power source - network, battery. You can charge the tracker using a USB cable. One charge is enough for several hours of evening walk. The white clasp securely secures the product. Belt length 50 cm, width 1 cm, weight 119 g.

Advantages:

• Adjustable drawstring;
• May glow;
• Color selection;
• Mains/battery operation;
• Convenient charging;
• Inexpensive.

Flaws:

• Lack of carabiner;
• Smell.

This luminous dog collar is recommended to be worn over the main collar, since it does not have a carabiner for attaching a leash. For pets with too thick, long hair, it is better to use a flashing pendant.

Collar Evolutor 4243

A universal collar for hunting dogs made in Ukraine is suitable for medium, large, and very large breeds. The reinforcing layer can withstand shocks of up to 500 kg. Has an international lifetime warranty.

The main material of the accessory is innovative collartex, stitched with kelp thread for strength. The aircraft-grade aluminum hook buckle can be removed and locked with one click. There is an area for engraving. The product is easy to clean, just rinse it with soapy water. Dries instantly.

The adjustable belt is available in several colors: orange, purple, black. Suitable for neck circumference 25-70 cm. Collar width 2.5 cm, weight 155 g. The special surface texture prevents the wet leash from slipping.

Advantages:

• Versatility of size;
• Innovative combined material;
• Reinforcing layer;
• International lifetime warranty;
• Place for engraving;
• Choice of colors.

Flaws:

• Price;
• With strong jerks it stretches slightly.

The belt materials do not fade or fade in the sun. It can be used in any weather conditions and does not tan in frost. Variegated shades do not stain the animal’s fur, and the outer rubberized shell prevents slipping.

Hunter Porto 50

A leather collar for dogs of medium breeds is presented by the German brand “Hunter”. Designed for a neck circumference of 37-43 cm. The strength of the base is given by a plastic mesh located between the layers of the belt.

The collar is made of two layers of high-quality genuine leather, dyed with vegetable dyes. Inside there is a mesh that prevents deformation. The edges are specially folded inward, this prevents wool from rubbing during wear. Metal fittings go well with leather.

The belt width is 2.8 cm, it has length adjustment holes. It does not stretch when loaded and does not cause discomfort to the pet. The product is intended for daily wear due to its durability.

Advantages:

• Classic design;
• Genuine two-layer leather;
• Adjustable length;
• Comfortable to wear;
• Durability;
• Environmentally friendly.

Flaws:

• Price;
• There is no reflector.

This is a classic, but reinforced with mesh, model that will withstand increased loads and daily walks. Metal parts are frost-resistant, unlike plastic, which also guarantees durability.

The Best Straight Collars for Dogs

The fourth category is an overview of strict collars, which are used as a fail-safe method of controlling a dog. Such accessories are not suitable for frequent, or rather even rare, use, as there is a risk of causing pain. But a radical method will wean your pet off the leash. 2 nominees, according to VyborExpert, showed the best price-performance ratio.

ZooOne OC-CP 3255

A strict collar for large dogs and their training, featuring removable links. Suitable for neck circumference up to 55 cm, not recommended for daily wear. Production - Russia.

The product is made of silver metal. It does not corrode, the links are firmly attached to each other. The spikes are curved inward and are at a certain angle. A fabric strip connects the collar links to the rings to which the leash is attached. The lock is metal, highly reliable.

The belt can be reduced or enlarged using 3.2mm thick links, a total of 11 pieces. The total weight of the accessory is 320 g; it is practically imperceptible on the animal’s neck, except for moments of violation of discipline.

Advantages:

• Strict design;
• Strength of materials;
• Functionality;
• Quick control of the dog;
• Length adjustment;
• Inexpensive.

Flaws:

• Over time, the fabric strip frays;
• Suitable for training only.

In a calm state, the spikes on the inside simply lie on the neck; if you pull the leash, they rise. Thus, the dog quickly becomes obedient and follows commands correctly. But training should last no more than an hour.

Darell Flake Zinc (090708)

A strict collar from the Russian brand “Darrell” with a stylish design is intended for training medium breeds. Suitable for animals with a neck circumference of up to 50 cm, and individuals over 6 months of age.

The gray model consists of metal plates, the width of which is 2.3 cm. Inside there are curved pointed spikes 1.5 cm long. The surface is coated with a special galvanic coating - zinc, which increases the corrosion and mechanical resistance of the material used.

The product is lightweight - only 200 g. It is adjustable in length using a chain, links of which can be removed or added. There is an additional metal ring for attaching to the leash. The links are even and the same size.

Advantages:

• Strict design;
• Training effectiveness;
• Galvanic coating;
• Adjustable size;
• A light weight;
• Inexpensive.

Flaws:

• Age restrictions;
• For training purposes only.

Such an accessory should dangle on the pet’s neck and not fit tightly. It is intended for training purposes only. Frequent use will lead to the dog getting used to the pain, and training will lose its meaning.

How to convince your puppy that everything you do is completely safe

The owner will constantly have to perform such an action as taking the dog by the collar in order to take it home. The fact that a person approaches the puppy and also extends his hand, many dogs perceive as an invasion of their personal space. Because of this, the dog may attempt to run away or express its aggression. Try to reassure the puppy that your actions do not pose a threat to him. In order to keep the dog calm and also to develop its reaction to touch, you can give treats. Taming must take several stages.

Prepare a treat for your dog, sit next to him, on the side, and very slowly extend your hand towards the collar. Offer your dog treats and release the collar. You need to repeat these steps with different hands. Make sure that the puppy looks at the owner's face, and does not look at his hands. This exercise should be done every day, several times, and the collar should be grasped from different sides. All actions should be reinforced with treats.

Only patience, as well as a very affectionate relationship, will help regulate the dog’s behavior. If you handle it roughly, the effect will be the opposite; as a result, the owner will have to deal with the correction of the animal’s psyche. If a dog has just appeared in your home, or you are planning to purchase one, contact the specialists of the veterinary clinic, they will provide answers to the most important questions.

The best choke collars for dogs

Products in the form of nooses, which are also considered a measure of animal education. A certain design will not allow him to break off the leash, as sudden movements will cause discomfort. Having studied the features of such accessories, Vyborexperta.ru selected 2 leaders.

Rogz Alpinist XL (HBC27)

Semi-choke for large individuals of the Labrador and Rottweiler breeds. The variety of colors allows you to choose a collar for any gender of animal. High-quality tape, soft and highly durable. Country of origin: South Africa.

The material of the product is soft nylon, its special weaving increases the level of strength and protection. A buckle made of titanium plastic reduces the load by correctly positioning the weight rings. The lock is protected from unauthorized opening. Cast rings are galvanized, which means they are anti-corrosion and protected from tarnishing.

The round shape is suitable for a neck circumference of up to 50-70 cm. The tape is 2.5 cm wide and 47 cm long, easily adjustable, sits comfortably, and does not rub during wear. The color does not fade and remains saturated for a long time. Can be used daily.

Advantages:

• Color selection;
• Durable, soft tape;
• Metal fittings with galvanic treatment;
• Comfortable round shape;
• Sturdy buckle design;
• Double lock protection.

Flaws:

• Risk of injury due to sudden jerks;
• No reflectors.

When the leash is pulled, it tightens slightly to a certain length, but does not put pressure on the neck. The base is additionally stitched. To open the lock, you need to flip the latch, then press the safety lock.

Gripalle Cooper 30-50S

High-quality ammunition for walking pets from the Belarusian brand “Gripalle”. This is an ergonomic design, completely handmade from two-layer, textured, but very soft genuine leather.

The noose is equipped with European-made fittings made of durable steel. The belt is stitched with special polyester threads, which do not rot or get wet for quite a long time, maintaining their original properties. The seam lines are even and neat. There are several color options to choose from.

The manufacturer's company logo is embossed on a ribbon 50 cm long and 3 cm wide. The base is durable, the design is designed taking into account all the anatomical features of the animal. Designed for large breeds.

Advantages:

• Ergonomic, stylish design;
• Handmade;
• Use of high quality materials;
• Stitching with polyester threads;
• Long service life;
• Inexpensive.

Flaws:

• Scuffs and scratches are visible;
• Special care required.

A choke collar is indispensable when training a young animal. It dampens excitement from external factors, while focusing all attention on the owner’s commands. In skillful hands, the accessory is completely safe and does not cause discomfort to the dog.

Decoration

When designing decorative collars, rhinestones, scarves, spikes, rivets, sparkles, appliqués, and bells are used. A variety of design solutions allows you to choose an accessory that distinguishes your dog from its fellow dogs and emphasizes the advantages of its appearance.

Some decorative elements also have practical significance. The scarf is soaked with moisture to protect the pet from overheating or with compounds to repel worms and other parasites. And the bell will signal the owner about the movement of his pet.

Important: to avoid injury to the owner and other dogs during play, you should not buy a product with spikes. Also, avoid purchasing a collar with overloaded decor - this model will cause inconvenience to the animal.

Collars for everyday wear are most often made without decoration.

How to choose a dog collar

There are several indicators by which you can choose in absentia which collar is best for your dog. We recommend paying attention to the type of structure, the materials from which it consists, the indicated dimensions, as well as the proposed functionality.

Type of collar

A dog collar requires specific functions. And here everything will depend on its variety. Our team reviewed several current types:

• GPS collar – using a tracker you can track the location of your four-legged friend at any time;
• training - a special design applies impulse, vibration or sound to correct behavior;
• everyday (ordinary) - a simple, universal design for constant wear, affordable, durable, comfortable model;
• strict (parfors) - a strap made of leather and/or metal with spikes on the inside, which cause discomfort whenever the pet becomes restless;
• a noose is a sliding loop that will tighten with sudden movements, an excellent solution for non-aggressive but overly active breeds.

Which option to choose depends on the purpose of use, the behavior of the animal, its lifestyle and other factors.

Material

The presented ammunition manufacturers use the following types of materials:

• leather is a common option for equipment of all breeds, sizes, the material looks aesthetically pleasing, does not cause discomfort if it is of sufficient width, and lasts for several years;
• textiles - such a product is suitable for small breeds due to insufficient strength, but they look aesthetically pleasing and are cheaper than their analogues;
• tarpaulin is a durable but non-stretchy fabric, it retains its integrity for a long time, does not fade, does not fade, and therefore is suitable for large individuals;
• nylon is a winning option, available in bright colors, and can withstand heavy loads (up to 300 kg).

The most reliable equipment is one that is reinforced with plastic and metal inserts. It is important that the characteristics of the materials correspond to the size, weight of the pet, and wearing conditions.

Size

When choosing a size, they look at the girth of the neck, the thickness of the coat, and only then take into account the purpose of the purchase. The accessory should not fit tightly, leaving a small “gap”. If you need an everyday model, it is customary to measure near the base of the neck, adding 5 cm to the data obtained.

If it is a noose, then add 6 cm; when selecting a strict collar, measure closer to the pet’s ears, increasing the result by 6-7 cm. It is advisable that the animal either sit or stand at this time; the harness should not be too tight.

Functional

There are many other indicators by which ammunition is selected. Functionality includes:

• GPS tracker – determines location;
• fitness tracker – records activity, distance traveled;
• backlight – helps out in the dark;
• therapeutic effect - relieve the host from various parasites;
• education - develop reflexes, correct behavior;
• decorative effect - acts as decoration.

Manufacturers are constantly developing, introducing new functionality into dog equipment.

Common mistakes of novice owners

Many novice owners make mistakes when choosing and using ammunition, and here are the most common ones:

• incorrect selection of the collar size (it should “sit” tightly on the puppy, but not tight and not too loose);
• putting on the parfors is very free (it should not hang on the dog, it is fastened strictly behind the animal’s ears);
• choosing a collar with fragile clasps and rings (they must be welded);
• purchasing cheap ammunition made from rough and low-quality material.

Which dog collar is best?

After getting acquainted with the 12 top products of the current year, the evaluation criteria, choosing and buying something from the variety of assortments no longer seems like a difficult task. Vyborexperta.ru cannot name the best accessory, since everything is purely individual, but it recommends paying attention to several nominations:

• Tractive GPS Dog – a waterproof tracker collar with GPS for hunting dogs that remembers the history of activity over the last 24 hours;
• Patpet T720 – effective training measure, 100 impulse levels and long range;
• Collar Evolutor 4243 – combined material with a reinforcing layer, international lifetime warranty;
• Hunter Porto 50 – genuine two-layer leather, eco-friendly collar with stylish accessories for daily use;
• Darell plate zinc (090708) – a strict collar with galvanic coating, adjustable size;
• Gripalle Cooper 30-50S is a handmade noose made of soft double-layer leather, stitched with polyester threads.

The nominees considered all deserve attention, as they meet quality and safety standards. We have collected the most popular, relevant varieties for surveillance, training, education, and a comfortable time for the owner to spend time with his four-legged friend.