FAQ: Collars & Leashes for dogs

Small breeds such as Chihuahuas or Yorkshire Terriers have a sensitive windpipe, and a collar presses on the neck when they pull. A harness spreads the force across the chest, so it is often considered the safer choice.

Flat-faced dogs such as pugs and French Bulldogs suit a harness that does not press on the neck or chest, with the front strap sitting below the throat. Their airways are sensitive, so a collar is less suitable for attaching the lead.

Large dogs need wide, sturdy collars or harnesses with metal hardware and a reliable lead that is comfortable to hold. Choose products rated for the dog's weight and check the stitching and clips regularly.

Long-haired dogs suit rolled or smooth-surfaced collars that rub and mat the fur less. Brush the fur under the collar regularly, and the collar can come off at home.

Fur is usually worn away by a collar that is too tight, rough or constantly wet, especially if the dog wears it all the time. Try a different material, adjust it looser and take the collar off at times, and see a vet if the skin is damaged.

A dog pulls because it wants to reach smells and other dogs faster, and pulling often works – the person keeps walking. In addition, a dog's natural pace is faster than a person's, so loose-lead walking has to be taught.

Front-clip or other no-pull harnesses make the dog easier to manage but do not by themselves teach loose-lead walking. The best results come from combining them with consistent training and rewards.

When the lead goes tight, stop or change direction, and when the dog comes back and the lead slackens, praise it and give a treat. Practise in short sessions, in a quiet place at first, and be consistent on every walk.

Sudden jerks can injure a dog's neck and windpipe, and the dog often begins to link the lead, other dogs or people with an unpleasant feeling. It is more effective to reward the desired behaviour and stop when the dog pulls.

Yes, a retractable lead is always slightly taut, so the dog learns that pulling gives it more freedom. While the dog is learning to walk on a loose lead, a fixed-length lead is easier to use.

First let the dog put its muzzle into the halter loop for a treat, then fasten it briefly and gradually increase the time. Most dogs try to rub it off at first, so do not rush.

Start again in small steps: place the harness near the food bowl, reward touching it and only later try putting it on. Step-in harnesses or ones that do not go over the head often suit fearful dogs better.

A dog often learns that having the lead clipped on means the end of play. Clip the lead on and release it again, with a treat each time, so clipping on is not linked only with going home.

A dog may stop out of fear, tiredness, pain, heat or simply not wanting to go a certain way. Do not drag it, check that the collar or harness is not pinching, and if the behaviour is new or keeps happening, ask a vet.

On the lead a dog can neither move away nor greet normally, so some dogs start barking or lunging. Greater distance from other dogs, rewards for staying calm and, if needed, a trainer's help all make a difference.

Check the fit regularly, and for fearful dogs choose a martingale collar or a harness with an extra belly strap. In new places or during fireworks you can use two leads – one on the collar and one on the harness.

Usually the dog's name and the owner's phone number, sometimes a note that the dog is microchipped or needs medication. Many owners leave off their full home address for safety reasons.

In Lithuania dogs generally have to be walked on a lead in public places, and certain breeds or dangerous dogs may face extra requirements such as a muzzle. The exact rules are set by law and by municipalities.

A dog can be let off the lead in designated dog parks or places where local rules allow it. Even there, the dog should reliably come back when called and not bother others.

For many dogs a light, well-fitting collar is no problem at home, but it can catch on furniture, crate bars or another dog's teeth. If the dog is left alone or in a crate, it is safer to remove the collar or use a breakaway collar.