Collars The most suitable collars are the broad leather or fabric ones or the half-check (check-choke), which is three-quarters nylon or leather and a quarter chain link.
Half-checks are good when training, because you can achieve a rattle with the chain part to attract the dog's attention.
When fitting a collar, make sure you can slide two fingers between it and the dog's neck. Check the collar regularly for signs of chafing, and also to see that it still fits comfortably on a growing dog.
Leash
Leashes, like collars, are available in all sorts of lengths and designs. What is important, however, is to choose the most appropriate one for you and your dog. It makes an enormous difference for both parties in terms of comfort and control if you have a leash that is the correct length for the size of your dog, and the right width for your hand.
The leash must be of suitable length to maintain a slack tension. If it is too short, the dog will be dragged along; too long and you will have meters of lead to deal with.
Choose a fabric or leather lead that can be extended or shortened as desired (as favored by dog trainers), and then you will have the best of both worlds when training and when simply out for a walk.
Retractable leashes are available in a variety of designs, but as some are better than others it is imperative that you choose one you can retract easily and instantly when desired. You must also buy the variety suited to the weight of your dog, otherwise it may not be strong enough to control him (some have been reported to snap when under stress and flick back into the handler's body or face, resulting in serious injury). To be on the safe side, do not use retractable leads on dogs that pull or become very excitable.
Crate
Also called a den or a cage, a crate serves as a bed and is useful for toilet training, for keeping the dog separate from the family and other pets when necessary, and for safety when traveling with your dog.
Crates come in all sizes, with different types of opening. Good, sturdy ones are expensive, so choose one that will be big enough to accommodate your dog when it is fully grown. Cheap crates tend to be badly made or flimsy, and therefore represent poor economy because they do not last.
Plastic-covered metal crates are quieter and easier to clean than those constructed out of bare or galvanized metal. A two-door foldaway crate is more convenient, especially when being used in a vehicle.
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