There are many reasons to buy a collar and leash for your American Cocker Spaniel and these reasons can range from fashion to training with training being the most important one. Whatever collar and leash you decide on make sure that it is the right one for the dog you own and what you are using it for. In this article we will explore the different collars on the market and how each can be used in the correct manner so that you and your dog will benefit from it.
Chain slip collars are made for the purpose of training. Some people call them choke chains. They work wonderfully for helping your dog learn how to walk by your side and heel. When you are walking your American Cocker Spaniel and he steps out of line a sharp tug on this collar will get his attention. They work by tightening on your dogs neck but make sure it's a slip chain so that when the tug is over the collar reverts back to the comfortable zone. When your training session is over remove this type of collar immediately, it is not meant to be left around your dogs neck as it can pose a choking problem given the right circumstance.
There is a lot of pros and cons with this next collar which is a metal prong collar. Some people think it's cruel to be used on any dog while others sing it's praises especially if they own a large dog. Regardless of their harsh appearance there are people who find them effective. These are used in the same manner as the slip collar. Use these collars for correction only when your walking your dog. When the walk is finished the collar should be removed immediately. With both the slip collar and the prong collar your dog should not be left alone while wearing it.
The Martingale Collar was designed for Greyhounds but can be used on almost any breed. This is also a corrective collar but was designed so that dogs can't slip out of this collar. The collar will tighten when pulled on there's a stopping mechanism built in to prevent the collar from closing tightly. These collars are made from nylon or similar material and come in many colors and designs for those of you that want your dog looking in fashion.
Most of us know about the regular everyday collar. With the everyday collar your choice will depend on the size of your dog. You can purchase these with strong buckles for closure or quick release clasps. You will find that these come in an endless array of colors and sizes and is made from many types of materials. Some people like the buckle collar especially if they have a large dog but if you have an American Cocker Spaniel you could probably go with either of these types. Don't forget to attach a name plate on your collar with your phone number on it just in case your best friend decides to go exploring on his own.
Break away collars are very popular due to the fact that they have a safety catch to prevent choking. They can still be used for your everyday walks as there are two hooks on these collars and when you have put the leash on both hooks it cannot separate. The beauty about this type of collar is that when you remove the leash and your dog gets tangled he can break free on his own without choking.
Regardless of what type of collar you use keep in mind that patience and repetition will help more than any collar. As stated above it is important that you have your dog tag on the collar with your phone number just in case he gets lost.
