Skip to content
For every dog owner, a collar is a must-have for daily walks, and it's also a convenient spot for ID and vaccination tags. However, it's important to be aware that if not used correctly, collars can unfortunately cause serious harm, or even be fatal.
Let's look at some common ways collars can pose a risk to your dog, along with practical advice for using them safely and responsibly.
#1 Skin Irritation
A collar that's too tight can really bother your dog's skin, and even one that feels only “moderately tight” can irritate. This can lead to patches of hair loss, and those areas of skin might then be more likely to get infected.
In severe situations, a collar that's far too tight can actually cut into a dog's neck. This often happens in cases of neglect, where a collar fitted for a puppy isn't adjusted as the dog grows.
To keep your dog's neck healthy, it's a good idea to use a few different BioThane collars in rotation and regularly check that they still fit properly. Also, allowing your dog to sleep without a collar at night gives their skin a chance to breathe.
#2 Everyday Annoyances
Even if a collar doesn't cause any serious harm, a poorly chosen one can simply be annoying for your dog. It's really about using your common sense when you're buying one. If a collar looks stiff and uncomfortable, it probably is.
Wearing a piece of jewellery that's very tight and rigid would restrict your movement and simply make you unhappy. Right? Similarly, a stiff collar will impede your dog's mobility and general comfort.
Many owners often wonder why their dog is constantly scratching their head and neck. While there can be various allergic reasons (such as dog seasonal allergies) for this, sometimes it's simply due to mild irritation from their collar.
#3 Danger of Choking
When collars aren't used carefully, they can unfortunately put your dog at risk of strangulation. For instance, a dog might jump up and get their collar caught on something like a fence post or a window latch, which can lead to suffocation. Even hanging tags can get snagged on crates or other objects, posing a choking hazard.
Furthermore, even a collar that fits perfectly can be dangerous if it's used to tie a dog up in the garden. There have been sad cases where dogs have tried to jump over fences while tied on a long lead, resulting in them hanging themselves by their collar.
#4 Hurting Their Neck
Traditional dog collars can cause harm to a dog's neck, especially if they pull strongly on the lead or if the owner uses the collar to yank them around.
When you yank the lead, you could easily harm your dog's neck, which is an incredibly sensitive part of their body.
Putting repeated stress on their neck can even lead to long-term health problems. This includes damage to the thyroid glands, the tissues around the neck, and even the salivary glands. An adjustable dog harness can be a much safer option than a neck collar, as it spreads the pressure and reduces strain on this sensitive area.
#5 Leg or Mouth Injuries
Beyond the risk of choking, a collar can pose other serious physical dangers, particularly if it's too loose. For example, if your dog is scratching their ear and their collar is baggy, a back or front leg could get caught and looped through it.
This could sadly lead to a broken limb. Dogs can also get their teeth or tongue trapped in a loose collar while grooming, which might result in broken teeth or other mouth injuries.
Choosing Wisely for Safety
Ultimately, the goal is to keep your dog safe and comfortable. While collars are essential, understanding the potential risks and choosing the right one is key. Regularly checking the fit, opting for a harness during walks if your dog pulls, and considering breakaway options can all contribute to their well-being.
If you're looking for a collar that combines security, comfort, and toughness, explore Woof Frills BioThan dog collars. These are designed to handle everything your dog's day throws at them – from exploring new smells to confidently strutting, they're 100% versatile.
Crafted for every kind of outdoor escapade, these waterproof dog collars can withstand rain, mud, splashes, and anything else. They're made from remarkably strong, yet surprisingly light Biothane material, making them resilient enough for the most energetic playtimes but gentle enough for constant wear.
You'll find an adjustable slider for that ideal, snug fit, a robust D-ring for attaching the lead securely, and they are incredibly simple to clean; a quick rinse or even a cycle in the dishwasher will do the trick.