40(ish) Wirecutter Picks for Pets (2024)

FAQs

What is the best collar for a large dog that pulls? ›

The head collar is good for strong, energetic dogs who may jump and/or pull. Because the halter is around your dog's muzzle, instead of their neck, your dog loses a great deal of leverage and they are unable to pull on the leash with the full weight of their body.

EzyDog Zero Shock Dog Lead

Whether your dog only pulls occasionally, or their pulls are incredibly strong, this EzyDog Zero Shock Dog Lead is excellent for absorbing the shock, making you much less prone to injuries. The handle is padded for your comfort too.

In general, harnesses are easier on dogs than collars. For example, a good harness can alleviate back pain. They're also far less likely to pull on your dog's throat, causing injury. If you have a dog that loves to pull hard while walking, you'll want to consider a harness.

Halo provides superior value versus SpotOn. While both are wireless GPS fences that contain your dog, Halo does it for a fraction of the price. A SpotOn dog collar costs about $999 – and that price only gets you the collar itself. Halo regularly offers their GPS dog collar fence on sale as low as $599.

Martingale collars are escape-proof nylon collars that tighten as dogs pull. If a dog spooks and tries to back out of the collar, it will tighten, and the dog will stay securely with the dog's handler.

A wider dog collar will offer more support around the neck. This style is suited to a dog that is strong and pulls a lot on dog walks. It helps spread the pressure across the neck, thus reducing the risk of any injury. For a smaller dog, a wide dog collar is less suitable as it is likely to be heavier.

Whether you are dealing with a puppy or an older rescue, martingale collars are a great way to teach your dog not to pull while on leash. Dogs that are still learning good leash manners are also more likely to pull or back out of their collars when they see other dogs or distractions.

Stop walking when the lead starts to tighten

Teach your dog that walking next to you with a loose lead means they get to move forward – and pulling means they don't. The second the lead starts to tighten, stop walking. Stand still, keep quiet and don't move forward again until the lead is slack.

Calmly offer them treats or play a game. For example, ask for a sit or a hand target. These exercises are simple for your dog to do and will keep them engaged as the distraction passes. You can also teach your dog to make eye contact with you using the “watch me” cue so you can control where they're looking.

Why are dog trainers against harnesses? ›

A harness isn't always the best answer

One advantage, of course, is that a harness does not pull on a dog's neck. However, depending on the dog, it can put a huge amount of pressure on their shoulders and hips, because that's where the force is driving the dog forward from.

If the straps sit on or too close to the dog's shoulders it can impede movement which at best will be uncomfortable for your dog and at worst could cause future injury and keep young dogs from developing properly.

It's recommended that you should remove a dog collar from around their neck at the end of every day. The main reason to do it is for safety in case they catch something on their collar during the night and you're unable to help them.

Light up LED collars can enhance your safety whenever you are outdoors with your dog, making them perfect for those late night/early morning walks.

Yep, LED collars are totally safe for your dog to wear! However, they may not be a good fit for dogs who like to chew since many LED collars are battery-powered. Most LED dog collars use 3-volt lithium-ion batteries.

LED lights used in dog collars are definitely safe for dogs. They can be either USB rechargeable or battery-operated and do not generate heat, making them safe for pets to wear.

Keeping Dogs Safe with Reflective Dog Collars

Reflective materials can be the difference between seeing a lost dog or missing him or her completely. Reflective dog collars can also pick up car headlights and other sources of light that can allow people to see your dog and avoid a deadly accident.