There are signs of wear and tear
Your dog’s collar isn’t just for looks or staying on the right side of leash laws; it’s for keeping them safe. That’s why it’s important you regularly check your dog’s collar for signs of wear and tear. A worn or broken collar can put your dog in serious danger, so you never want to wait for it to break. If it isn’t as strong as it was when you first bought it, then it’s probably time to get a new dog collar. And if the buckle accidentally comes undone, the leather is weak, or the nylon is frayed, then it’s definitely time to get your dog a new collar
The collar doesn’t meeting your training needs
It’s important you choose the right collar and harness for your dog. If your dog is prone to pulling on the leash or can easily back out of a regular collar, then you should swap their current collar for a martingale collar. And sometimes a regular, buckle collar isn’t enough to control an excited dog or to teach them how to walk loose on the leash. A martingale collar or a slip collar, in addition to your dog’s regular collar, can better meet your training needs.
How Can I Prolong the Life of my Dog’s Collar?
The most important thing to do is to choose a durable collar to begin with. We’ve linked to some of our favorite options above. Consider whether or not the collar will be exposed to the elements. Nylon is a better choice for dogs who like to swim.
If your dog swims nearly every day, you may want to choose a waterproof collar. Their buckles are specially designed to hold up to tough weather, and can even go in and out of saltwater without rusting.
If you choose a leather collar, you will need to wash it on occasion and treat it with leather conditioner as it dries. This will help prevent the leather from cracking and breaking. With proper care, leather collars can last for decades.
The BIG MISTAKE That People Make When Fitting A Dog Collar
In a nutshell, changing your dog collar every now and then is worth the energy to keep your dog clean, healthy and happy. There is no specified frequency. Simply check the state and fit of your pet’s collar on a regular basis and change it out when you notice the above wear and tear.