Collar/Leash

[patton_jr]

Any day now!!

Anyway, I'm getting stuff slowly but surely while I wait for my girl. I was wondering if anyone had opinions on what type or types of collars I should get for her. Also, what about leashes(Length...)

Thanks!

[Sharon Marples]

You know the saying....."different strokes for different folks".....

The same goes for leashes and collars. There is such an assortment available that you will find that many people have many different reasons for using different collars.

I'll tell you what we use:
For everyday obedience training, I use a flat leather collar (no wider than 1 inch).

For conformation training, I use a metal link collar (or called a choke collar).

I get my dogs used to two different collars, it makes it easier for them to make the transition between rings at a show where they will compete in both obedience and breed the same day.

My preference is for a 4 foot soft leather leash (usually 1/2 - 3/4 inch wide), I do not like any leash to be wider than 3/4 of an inch. In Canada, you must use a 6 foot lead in obedience classes, in the US, you are allowed to use a 4 foot lead. Again, it comes down to your own preference. I never suggest nylon or chain leashes, if something happens that causes the dog to run or pull the lead through your hands, it can cause burns or cuts.

Other than that, it's up to you. I would always suggest you start with a softer material (my preference being leather that I treat with neatsfoot oil prior to using), and there is no need to go to a strong (prong) collar without have a good reason to do so. The main thing is that if you get your dog into obedience classes at a young age, you should never have to worry about using the stronger collars on them. Your instructor will probably have their choice of collars for you to use, etc.

Good luck, good to see that you are thinking ahead!

Sharon Marples

[Rottnlove]

I'm glad this subject was brought up.

I need to get all my stuff for my pup tommorrow....what do I need right away, other than food and dishes?

I'd like to get a leather leash, preferable 4 foot. How long do you have to soak the leather?

Should I start off using a regular flat buckle collar on her?

[Carina43]

I also like leather leashes - I found some really nice sturdy braided ones that are very comfortable to hold. I wouldn't spend a lot of money on a collar - they grow so fast! I have a friend with a Great Dane who wears her grown up collar, the little puppy collar hanging from it... I like leather collars too, they wear so much nicer...I'vve never thought of oiling a leash though!

My dogs wear flat leather collars, except the long haired Rottie who has a rolled leather one so as not to mess up his 'do. :)

[patton_jr]

Here is my list of stuff. Most of which I have already! And she isn't even born yet....

- Midwest Crate 42DX28HX32W
- Midwest Crate Divider
- Sleeping mat for Crate
- Collars
- Leash
- Stainless Steel Bowls 24 Oz
- Brushes
- Nail Clippers
- First Aid Kit
- Shampoos
- Treats/toys
- Lots of Love!!

The last one is the easy one....and it's free....also you can get a pretty good return on the investment!

All of which I figured to cost in the area of $400.00.

I'm sure if I left anything out someone else will add to the list.


:D

[Rottnlove]

Thanks!

Yeah, I have a crate that she's being sent to me in, but I know it won't last too long since she'll grow so fast.

Ok, I need to start thinking about brushes. I hear curry combs are excellent, and a shedding blade. Do I need any other kind?

I am wondering if I should get the dremel now? Is 8 weeks too little to use a dremel on her? I am so nervous about using it on her until I know how to do it exactly right.

I am going to be busy, busy, busy!!!

Probably up all night too. She'll be sleeping in her crate right next to my bed. I hope she doesn't howl too loud for the next door neighbors...we live in a condo!

So, I will start off with a cheap, flat buckle collar and buy a nice leather leash.

Thanks!

patton_jr, you are really thinking ahead if you have all that stuff already! I only have the toys--and the most important part, LOVE!!! ;)

[Sharon Marples]

YES! 8 week old puppies are totally old enough to dremel the nails. We start our puppies out at 3 weeks of age. At that time they don't have a clue as to what is going on and don't even fight. They grow up with it, they accept it and never give us a problem with the dremel.

When soaking a leather leash, we normally soak them about an hour and then wipe them off with a cloth and then hang them outside in the sun or in a warm room for about 3 - 5 days until all the excess oil has evaporated or dried off. You may have to wipe them down with a cloth daily until this happens.

Sharon