Have you ever taken a peek at your pup and noticed that they are scratching at their collar, or perhaps trying to wriggle out of it? If you have, then don’t worry, you are definitely not the only one! So many of us pet owners can make the mistake of choosing a collar for their dog that is causing them some kind of discomfort.
A collar really is so much more than just an accessory, it is an essential part of your collection that helps to both keep your dog safe and ensure that they can be identified if they ever get lost. If that collar isn’t comfortable, though, it can lead to a range of issues from stress to skin irritation to uncharacteristic behavioral problems.
To help you navigate all of this, we have put together a handy guide that explores all of the key signs that your pup’s collar might be causing them a problem, along with how all of these issues can be fixed. From classic signs like scratching or redness to how to choose the right fit and material like vegetable-tanned leather, we’ve got you covered!
Signs Your Dog’s Collar is Causing Discomfort
Constant Scratching or Rubbing
If you spot your pup scratching at their neck a lot or rubbing against furniture, it’s probably a sign that their collar is irritating them. This kind of behaviour can be caused by one or a combination of rough/synthetic materials, a collar that is too tight fitting and therefore digging into the skin, or chemical treatments that take place on lower quality leather that could trigger an allergic reaction.
Keep your eye out for excessive levels of scratching around the collar area, your pup rubbing their neck against furniture or across the floor, or any general whining or flinching when you try to touch the collar as they are wearing it.
The simple fix for this is to choose a collar that is made from soft natural material, just like the vegetable-tanned leather that we have already mentioned.
Redness, Hair Less or Chafing
Things like red patches, bald spots and areas of chafing around your pup’s neck are all classic signs that their collar is causing them friction and irritation. The most common causes of this particular issue are an improper fit that is either too tight or too loose, poor-quality materials that are trapping heat and moisture between collar and skin, and a lack of natural breathability that leads to excessive sweating.
Look out for red and inflamed skin in the strip where the collar rests, as well as any visible balding or hair thinning. You might also see raw areas or scabbing from levels of continuous friction.
Finding the most breathable collar option possible that also softens over time is the best way to avoid these kinds of issues.
Reluctance to Wear the Collar
If your dog is physically backing away from you when they see you grab the collar, then it’s a sign that they associate it with unwanted discomfort. This can be the result of stiff or rigid materials that hurt them, the collar being too heavy if they are a smaller breed, or just a build up of previous negative experiences from ill fitting collars in the past.
Look out for your pup pulling away or running off to try and hide when you bring the collar out, them acting nervous or hesitant when you come to place it around their neck, and any instances of them pawing at it once it has been attached.
The easiest way to avoid this is to select a collar that is nice and lightweight, and one like vegetable-tanned leather that molds to your dog’s neck over time, making it so much more comfortable.
How to Fix Collar Discomfort
Choosing the Right Material
The material of the collar you consider plays arguably the most crucial role in how comfortable your pup will be. We’ve already mentioned above that certain undesirable materials can cause anything from allergies to irritation to infection.
In terms of materials to avoid, you should definitely stay away from nylon and synthetics that trap moisture, cheaper chrome-tanned leather than is made with lots of chemicals, and plastic buckles that pose the risk of digging into your pup’s skin and causing irritation or injury.
There is absolutely no doubt that the best material for a comfortable dog collar is vegetable-tanned leather.
- It is hypoallergenic and chemical free which makes it perfect for any dog who suffers with particularly sensitive skin.
- It is odor resistant and antibacterial, doing the double job of staying relatively fresh smelling compared to other materials, and being resistant to bacteria that dogs can easily accumulate when out and about on their various outdoor adventures.
- The supreme breathability is second to none, and the way that the leather softens over time means that it provides the most comfortable and durable custom fit for any dog’s neck.
Ensuring the Right Fit
A collar that fits properly is the best prevention for discomfort and injury around the neck. Something simple to learn and remember is the ‘two finger rule’. When putting the collar on your dog, you should be able to snuggly fit two fingers between the collar and their neck. Any fewer is too tight, any more is too loose.
If a collar is too tight it can lead to breathing issues or skin irritation, which can be eased by loosening. If a collar is too loose, it runs the risk of slipping off or even getting tangled up in objects. Use the two finger rule to adjust it for a more snug fit.
Always keep in mind that your dog will grow with age, especially if you get them as a puppy! Their collars will need to be continuously adjusted to accommodate their changing size. And if you have a delicate-necked breed like a Greyhound or a Whippet, then a wider leather collar is recommended for better pressure distribution.
Removing the Collar Indoors
It’s a really good idea to give your pup’s skin some time to breathe, it helps to prevent pressure sores developing and also helps to prevent hair loss. When they are safe and sound at home, why take the time to remove their collar and give them a break? This also reduces the risk of irritation from any trapped moisture, as well helping the skin to recover from constant pressure.
Switching to a Harness for Walks
Though we tend to prefer collars on the whole, you might want to also add a harness to your accessory collection as another comfortable and safe option when out on walks. Back-clip harnesses are great for distributing pressure evenly when out on an adventure, and harnesses in general can do a lot of good in terms of reducing potential strain on the neck.
Collars are the best option for identification without a doubt, but switching to a harness for walks is something that a lot of dog parents like to do. Any loving pet owner knows that you can never have too many accessory options at your disposal!
Conclusion
At the end of the day, the main thing to remember is that your dog’s collar is a vital part of their overall well-being, so it deserves a lot of thought and attention. Being able to recognize all of the key signs of discomfort, from scratching to redness to fear of the collar itself is important, and then knowing what steps to take in order to address those signs is what can make you the perfect pet parent.
If you remember three key things from our guide, let them be that a breathable material like vegetable-tanned leather matters, that performing the two finger rule check can be the difference between comfort and discomfort, and that giving your dog a break by removing their collar when at home can be a skin saving treat.
Put simply, a comfortable collar equals a happy dog, healthy pup! If you are on the hunt for a premium solution to your collar problem, then look no further than the range of products we have to offer at The Lille Bjorn. Our collection of vegetable-tanned leather collars are the perfect blend of comfort, style and functionality. We can guarantee that you will find something that suits yours and your pet’s needs.
After all, your dog deserves the very best, and luckily we have just that to offer!
