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Choosing the Right Collar and Leash for Your Pup
25 Jan
Choosing the Right Collar and Leash for Your Pup
Getting your puppy out for exercise is an important activity you should add to your daily routine. Taking your pup out for a walk is a great way to keep them in shape and burn off some of their extra energy! When going for a walk, please do so safely by choosing the right collar that will always keep your pup with you on a leash and by wearing a collar with identifying tags.
Not all leashes and collars are the same, so I’ve put together some thoughts on the best options for your pup. We’ve met a lot of dogs and gathered a ton of knowledge about what is out there.
Choosing the Right Puppy Collar for Safety and Comfort
Your pup’s leash and collar are more than just a fashion statement. While there are many cute and unique options out there, it’s more important to focus on their functionality than their appearance.
Your puppy’s collar and leash are essential tools for safe walks and effective training. While stylish designs are fun, the primary focus should be comfort, durability, and function.
Collars are available in leather, nylon, and steel, each offering different levels of durability and comfort.
Martingale collars are the best option for new puppies starting to walk on a leash. These collars gradually tighten as they pull on them, which ensures your pup can’t slip out. Day-to-day, they will perform similarly to the buckle collar, but you’ll be glad to have that extra bit of safety when you start exploring the town with your puppy!
A simpler collar is the buckle collar, also known as a flat collar. The Blueberry Pet Essentials Nylon collar comes in a variety of fun colors to coordinate with any other fashion statements your pup needs to make. Your pup’s collar should be snug enough around their neck so that not even one of their ears can pop through. Collars can loosen over time, so be sure to check for a snug fit before you head out the door.
If your dog is a heavy puller, consider using a prong collar. I recommend the Herm Sprenger collar as they are well made and include a quick release clip which makes getting the collar on and off. The cheaper models you can find at big box stores will stretch over time and eventually fall off your dog, posing a major safety hazard.
Although prong collars may look intimidating, Michigan State University confirms that they are the best solution for the health of a pulling dog. Choke chains or even buckle collars under pressure will put all of the dog’s force onto their trachea, which can cause permanent damage, while the prong collar evenly distributes the pressure around the dog’s neck and provides a method of self-correction.
Finding the Best Leash for Puppy Training
When it comes to the best leash for puppy training, choosing the right material, length, and functionality can make a world of difference in shaping positive behavior. Whether you have a golden retriever or a tiny toy breed, your pet’s leash should be a training tool that keeps them safe and responsive without creating confusion.
For quick potty breaks, a slip lead is a simple yet effective option. This rope-style leash slips easily around your puppy’s neck without needing a separate dog collar or buckle. It’s especially helpful when you’re groggy in the middle of the night and don’t want to fumble with a clip or bolt snap. A slip lead made from durable nylon or leather offers a secure fit and instant control.
During the early months—especially under five months—your puppy should be on a leash even inside the house. This helps reinforce good habits and correct unwanted behavior. Using a custom training lead made from rope or strong webbing (ideally 10 feet in length) gives your pup freedom to explore while keeping them within arm’s reach. You can create your own with a bolt snap or carabiner at one end and knot the other for a secure grip. Let it drag behind them; this is one of the best ways to leash train a puppy and discourage bad behaviors like chasing.
For walking sessions, the best puppy leash training setup is a double-handle leash. These leashes include a standard handle and an extra loop closer to the collar clip, giving you more control—especially helpful when walking past distractions. If you’re shopping for the best lead for a dog that pulls, this design is a clear winner. It reduces strain and improves handling for both you and your pup, even when children are helping walk the dog.
Make sure to pair your leash with a well-fitted collar or, if you’re not ready for a prong collar, consider a front-clip dog harness or halter. Choose one with adjustable straps and a padded neck area to ensure comfort. A matching set in your favorite color—green, for example—can be fun, but prioritize quality materials and a strong warranty over looks. Check for features like reinforced stitching, stainless steel buckles, or snap clips that won’t stretch or break over time.
Investing in the right leash isn’t just about convenience—it’s about building a reliable communication link between you and your pet. The best leash for puppy training will give your dog the freedom to learn and explore while keeping you in control every step of the way.
Harness
I do not recommend harnesses for training, as a dog pulling through a harness is not learning to walk calmly with you, but if you are not quite ready for a prong collar, the easy walk harness is the best option out there. It is adjustable to any dog size and comes in a few different colors. The harness clips in the front, helping a dog not to pull.
Extras for a Safe Walk
Keeping your pup safe is not just about choosing the right collar. If the unimaginable happens and your pup slips out of your yard or pulls the leash out of your hands on a walk, an identification tag will help them return safe and sound. Include their name, your phone number, and your address. When someone finds your pup, they will have easy access to the needed information to get your furry friend back to your family.
If you have a winter puppy or a small breed dog, they will need a little help staying warm in winter. Investing in a jacket for your pup will help keep their body temperature up while out on your walk. The Kurgo Dog Jacket is a great option that is made from durable materials. With so many fun colors, you’re sure to find a jacket that matches your pup’s unique personality.
Contact Happy Pup Manor Today!
With all the essentials, a long walk is in your forecast. If you’re having trouble getting your puppy to follow commands while walking or need help jumpstarting the potty training process, consider contacting Happy Pup Manor! We are here to help with command and manners training. Our trainers are excited to talk with you about your pup and the ways we can help you.
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