One of the most important accessories you can have as a dog owner is a leash and collar. In most areas, they are required in public, and even at home, to ensure that your dog is well behaved. In many cases, Labradors are so well behaved that they don’t require a leash – but they are necessary if you plan on going places. Here are some tips on finding the best leash and collar for your Labrador:

Simple Leash and Collar

A simple leash and collar, also known as a flat collar, will do just fine for dogs that are extremely well behaved, or even tempered. I also find that older dogs that are slower moving do well with the simple leashes and collars. You can tell if a simple leash and collar are the best choice by how your dog behaves in public. If he or she stays beside you the whole time without trying to get ahead, it means they know their place in the pack and they are a good candidate for these types of collars.

Here are some good options to consider. You can also find a wide selection at your nearest pet supply store. Look for a collar that is adjustable and will grow with your dog. We recommend the flat collar over all others.

Harness

Veterinarians usually recommend a harness type of collar for those dogs who tend to be higher energy and require more effort when on the leash. The harness wraps around their bodies so not to choke them or crush their necks. These types of harnesses are ideal for younger dogs that are just being trained or are giving trouble with obedience. Some great options can be found here.

Choke Collar

The choke collar should be used as a last resort for very poorly behaved dogs. This collar actually works to keep the dog submissive towards his or her owner. There are some choke collars that are built with more safety features and you should do your research carefully to decide which one is best. This choke collar has some of those safety features built in, like rounded edges and dual rings.