Not all collars are created equal. There are dozens of different varieties and brands, and some work best for certain breeds and sizes. Choosing the right one also depends on the character of your pet. Is he a puller? A jumper? Or a pint-size poodle that is content to trot at your side? Whichever breed you own, or whatever unpleasant habit you'd like to break, one of these collars should be just the ticket.


Harness (leash attaches at the shoulder blades)
- Best for smaller breeds, like Shi-tzus or Yorkies, or any dog that does not pull on the leash.
- Not suitable for all-day wear, since chaffing can occur at tender armpits. Longer haired breeds may experience matting of the fur if worn excessively.
- Can actually promote pulling. There is a reason why sled dogs use harnesses--their strength is distributed evenly with the harness, which makes pulling more comfortable.

"No Pull" Harness (leash attaches at the chest)
- Prevents pulling by steering your dog back to you when he pulls ahead.
- Best for larger breeds, or any dog that pulls on the leash.
- Not suitable for all-day wear, per the reasons stated above.

Head Harness (leash attaches at the jaw)
- Best for those who pull excessively on the leash.
- Prevents pulling in the same manner as a horse harness, by steering the dog by the head instead of the neck.
- Best for teaching the fundamentals of heeling.
- Comfortable to wear. Although it resembles a muzzle, the dog has freedom to drink, bark, etc.
- May take longer for your dog to become accustomed to it. Some dogs may be immune, as they will stiffen their neck muscles in order to continue pulling.
- If used properly, and with cooperation from your dog, you can walk with one finger on the leash!
- I personally use this kind of collar with my 15 pound Cockapoo. I prefer the Halti brand.

Nylon Collar
- Best for everyday wear.
- Buckle or clip closures work fine.
- Can get wet and should never stretch out.
- Not recommended for leash training because it puts too much strain on the neck.

"Choke" Chain
- Not recommended for all-day wear, since it can snag easily.
- Some dogs do not respond, so they will pull regardless, just like with a regular nylon collar.
- When taught, the collar can pinch the skin of the neck.
- I generally do not recommend these collars to my clients, as there are better alternatives on the market.

"Pinch/Prong" Collar
- Great for leash training for very stubborn dogs, large or small.
- Even though this collar looks cruel, when used correctly, it will mimic an alpha dog's mouth, gently squeezing on the neck. Known to stabilize even the most unruly dogs.
- You should never yank the leash when using a prong collar. This is not proper usage, and can result in injury to your pet.
- Not suitable for all-day wear--injury can occur.

Leather or Suede Collar
- Can stretch over time, and your dog may be able to pull out of it.
- Some dogs have experienced irritation with these collars.
- Will warp or stretch when wet.
- If too stiff, the collar will be abrasive against your dog's skin, causing blisters or irritation.

Bottom line: a regular nylon collar is always best for daily wear. When going for a walk with dogs that do not know how to heel, I recommend using a pinch collar or head harness, even on small dogs.

Mandy Kocevar As senior editor at Plugged In Parents, Mandy sifts through all the current trends and hype to bring parents the answers they really care about. She's the wheel that keeps this website rolling, but when she's not editing, she can be found reviewing for her children's book review site, www.YABooksCentral.com, working on her next novel, camping, cooking, or checking out the latest film. Read More >>