Dog Collar Best Practices: Should You Remove It At Home?
The simple answer is YES. Even though dog collars are essential for outdoor activities, a veterinarian recommends a safer approach within the confines of your home. If you've trained your pup that wearing a harness or collar signifies an outdoor adventure, consider extending this practice to removing the collar when they return home to unwind.
You don't have to remove your dog's collar right as you come inside; it can be done at the end of the day or during their relaxation times. We highlight three important reasons why taking off your dog's collar at home is essential for their safety and comfort.
Why Removing Your Dog's Collar At Home is a Must-Do
1. Grooming Benefits
If your dog, like the Shiba Inu with medium to long hair, wears a collar, taking it off daily can prevent matting around the collar area. This also applies to short-haired dogs and their skin. Allowing their skin a break from the collar helps it breathe, preventing rashes, irritation, or undesirable odors.
2. Daily Check-Up
Removing your dog's collar daily not only lets them rest comfortably but also provides an opportunity to inspect the area for anything unusual. Besides checking for skin irritation, it allows you to examine for issues like ticks, fleas, and other unwelcome insects that might hide under the collar. Going extended periods without removing your dog's collar may increase the risk of a distressing vet visit for a seriously unwell pup. For guidance on where and how to check for unwanted critters on your dog, refer to this article by the American Kennel Club.
So What Are You Waiting For?
As dog owners, our ultimate desire is a happy, healthy, and well-behaved pup. Ensuring your dog's safety, health, and training can be as simple as taking off their collar during relaxation time. What defines relaxation varies for each dog and household. Consistency, as emphasized in our training, is key. Establish a routine for when the collar comes off and stays on. Dogs thrive on schedules, so find a rhythm that suits both your needs and your furry friend's. Once you do, relaxation will be at your fingertips.
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