A nylon or leather collar is safe for your dog to wear at all times. Collars should always be tight enough that your dog cannot get out of it. A general rule of thumb is that you should be able to insert two fingers between the collar and your dogs neck. This way it is loose enough for him to wear all the time but tight enough that he can’t break out of it. This type of collar has a metal ring on it for ease in fastening a dog leash, dog tags and other identification tags.

Buckle collars are safe enough for puppies but would not provide enough control for a full grown dog. They are also not strong enough.

Choke and slip collars are good for training a dog. They tighten up then release quickly.  They have metal links with a ring on each end. It is very important to make sure that these collars fit properly and a good idea to take your dog along with you when you are purchasing one. To properly fit your dog’s choke or slip collar, stand on his right side and loop the chain through the link. Hold the collar like a lazy “P.” The straight part of the “P” must go across the top of your dog’s neck.