These Waterproof Dog Collars Will Keep Them Dry All Day
When dealing with your dog’s comfort and happiness, what are some of the things that are absolute necessities? Proper food, toys, a comfy bed are a few things that come to mind. One item you may not think of is the dog’s collar. When it comes to a dog’s collar, we think of collars as a way to display your dog’s tags in case the dog gets loose. A collar (and a microchip) are the best way to keep your dog safe and identifiable.
This is all true, but one thing that gets overlooked is the collar’s materials. It might not be the first thing that we consider when choosing a dog collar, but the crafting materials of your dog’s collar may be more important than we first assume. It might be time for you to get your canine friend a waterproof dog collar.
Do I Need a Waterproof Dog Collar?
Not every dog likes the water, and some may avoid it at all costs. So that may shy you away from a waterproof dog collar. Every dog needs a bath, and no matter how far or close to the ground your dog’s body is, you know every time your dog takes a drink, there is a potential wet mess.
The point is that a waterproof dog collar is a commonly overlooked small detail. This small change can make your life and your dog’s life easier. This point is especially true to anyone who owns a dog that loves to be up to his ears in H20.
Types of Dog Collars
In the word of waterproof dog collars, there are several options and materials available.
- Biothane collars, for one, are one hundred percent waterproof. They are guaranteed to retain no moisture or dampness and therefore do not cause any neck irritation on your dog.
- Recycled waterproof collars are new to the market but work great. Usually made from recycled tires, these flexible, comfortable collars do not retain moisture or absorb bacteria and mildew. Buying one of these collars is a great way to be a friend to the planet.
- Hemp collars are becoming more popular due to the style and material. As time goes on, we are all starting to learn there is nothing hemp cannot do. It is soft enough not only to be comfortable around your dog’s neck, but it is also several times stronger than cotton. It also does not retain moisture, so there’s no smell and no bacteria.
- Neoprene collars are another great option, and some would say they are easily the most comfortable. People are already familiar with this material; neoprene contains the same material you’d find in a wetsuit. So not only are they the most comfortable, but everyone knows how waterproof and rugged wetsuits are.
Benefits of Having a Waterproof Dog Collar
A waterproof dog collar is not only better for your dog’s comfort, but it can also benefit you too. When a regular collar gets wet, it stays wet long after your dog has dried. Not only is this unsanitary, but it can also cause long-term irritation around your dog’s neck. Combine a slight skin irritation with all the bacteria and moisture your dog’s collar has absorbed, and you have a situation.
Some dogs are absolutely thrilled with a romp through the rain, while others shudder. Unfortunately, it’s hard to avoid the rain when it comes time for a potty break. The wet dog smell we don’t exactly love? It could be from your damp collar. Most other dog collars will smell easy because it takes so long to dry.
Another benefit of waterproof collars is the durability factor. Even if your dog isn’t rough on their collar, you don’t want to be replacing a cheaply made collar every week. Or worse, having to get new tags because a collar broke and the tags were lost.
Which Type is Best for Your Dog?
Which type of collar is best for your dog depends on how active or how often your dog gets wet. If you live in Seattle, and your dog likes puddles, you might want to go with one of the heavier-duty ones like the Neoprene. Does your dog only get wet when he absolutely has to? Maybe go with a fashionable hemp collar.
The main point is to make sure your dog’s collar is one hundred percent waterproof. Thankfully, waterproof collars are available in every style and color you could desire (you can even match your dog’s collar to their leash). Just make sure your collar contains the previously mentioned materials. As long as it is waterproof, the sky’s the limit for customization.
Should Dog Collars Be Left on All the Time?
When it comes to whether or not your dog should wear their collars all the time comes down to whether or not you have an escape artist on your hands. Some dog collars have the potential to cause matting, irritation, and unfortunate skin conditions.
We know your dog’s health is a top concern, so it might not be the worst idea to give the collar a break now and then so you can check your dog’s neck. Your dog’s weight will fluctuate just like ours sometimes, causing the collar to be too tight or too loose.
Leaving a dog’s collar most of the time is probably perfectly okay to do but removing it and giving the neck area a nice brush now and again is encouraged. It would not be the worst idea to examine the neck while ensuring the collar is not causing any irritation or discomfort.
How To Fit a Collar for Your Dog
One essential part of getting a collar for your dog is making sure it fits okay. The last thing you want is to make the collar too tight. You can measure before putting the collar on by using a cloth measuring tape. Make a note of the size and add a couple of inches.
Once you put the collar on your dog, use the two-finger rule to verify the fit. If two fingers fit between the collar and your dog’s neck, then the collar isn’t too tight. If there is much more room than two fingers, you will need to tighten it. If it is too loose, the collar may come off your dog when they are on a leash.
What Is a Good Width for My Dogs Collar?
The width of your dog’s collar is essential as well. A tiny collar on a larger dog could be uncomfortable or even dangerous. The collar is much more likely to dig into your dog’s neck and irritate the skin. This is why we recommend a wider collar for bigger dogs. It will also be easier for you to grab in case of an emergency.
On the other end of the spectrum, smaller dogs should have thinner collars. The wider the collar is on a small dog, the more likely it is to irritate your dog’s neck or chest. The best way to check is to see how your dog looks in the collar. If it is pressing against their neck or chest, consider a smaller width. If you can’t see the dog’s collar through the fur, consider going up a size or two in width.
Also, keep in mind to check the fit of your dog’s collar ever so often. Some collars will stretch over time. If your dog loses weight or has a fresh new haircut, there may be too much room between the collar and neck.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, big or small, orange or blue; the size, style, or color of the collar you choose for your dog is between you two. Just be sure your dog’s collar is made from one hundred percent waterproof material. This will solve simple but common problems that many dog owners face. Now you know everything about how to make your dog comfortable as well as fashionable. Some people may say you’re never fully dressed without a smile, but for dogs, we think they’re never fully dressed without a great collar.
Sources:
6 Waterproof Dog Collars for Pups that Love Water, Mud, Grit, and Grime | The Dogington Post
Next How Tight Should a Dog Collar Be? | Vetexplainspets.com
Should My Dog Wear A Collar At Home? | Dog Mom Days