By law all dogs must wear a collar and tag whenever they are in a public place (there are some exceptions for working dogs). The tag should bear your name and address, but what sort of collar to use?

There are flat collars, half and full checks, harnesses, headcollars – each style has its use. A traditional flat collar is ideal for young puppies, and any dog with reasonable manners. The full check (or ‘choke’) chain tightens and loosens according to the pressure on the lead. It is quite difficult to use properly and used incorrectly it really is a ‘choke’ chain. Fortunately modern training methods are kinder and more effective, so it is rarely used nowadays. Half-check collars have a chain loop added to a flat collar and are much kinder, as they cannot be over-tightened.

Headcollars are based on the principle of a horse’s bridle, and can work very well for steady dogs that are much stronger than their owners. Be sure to get a snug fit that doesn’t irritate the eyes. Use a headcollar to guide the head; don’t tug it – you could damage the neck. Don’t use it with an extending lead as a running dog could wrench its neck when it hits the end of the lead.

Harnesses are currently very popular. They are designed to allow draught animals (carthorses, oxen, sled dogs) to pull effectively and safely. A dog in a harness is unlikely to damage its neck, but it could be more able to pull you over.

Understanding what differently collars are designed for should help you chose something suitable for your dog. Whatever you buy, make sure you get a dog tag as well!

© Jo Belsten

This article was first published in the Great Yarmouth Mercury, 28 April 2006

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