The Best Dog Collar for Your Pit Bull
“Pit Bull” is the general term used for dogs of specific characteristics such as a muscular neck, a broad chest, almond-shaped eyes, and a short coat. Breeds that commonly fall under this broad term are the American Pit Bull Terrier, the American Bully, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and the American Staffordshire Terrier.
No matter which of these breeds you have or if your pup is a mix of these, you basically have a pit bull. That means having to deal with not just an intelligent and affectionate dog but also one that’s strong-willed, brawny, and powerful.
Whether you’re looking to buy a fashionable gold chain collar or finding functional basic collars, it’s essential that you consider all these general pit bull traits.
Concerns Regarding Pit Bulls and Dog Collars
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The main concern about finding the best collar for a pit bull is their strength.
These dogs are generally known as heavy pullers and so require all their dog accessories to be heavy duty and made with the highest standards of durability. Otherwise they could easily snap off, which could have serious consequences, especially if it happens in a public area.
Apart from strength, pit bulls have a uniquely muscular structure. Their necks and their chests are broader and brawnier than most breeds. So, it’s critical for you to take measurements of your pup and find a collar with the right size and fit.
How to Choose a Collar for Your Pit Bull
Knowing that your dog is either already strong or will soon be, these are the specific features you should look for in a dog collar for your pit bull:
Durability
First and foremost, a pit bull’s collar should be hard-wearing and able to withstand pulling. Check for weak points that could potentially break when you’re out on a walk.
- If it’s metal, will it rust?
- If it’s fabric, how quickly will it fray?
Also, check on the buckle and determine whether it looks tough enough to be used for a long time. Some pitbull collars come with a hardened plastic quick release buckle, but these buckles have been known to become brittle and eventually break.
The best buckles are made from stainless steel as it will last the longest.
Another important point of consideration is the leash attachment point. A good pitbull collar will have a stainless steel D-ring attachment point that makes taking your dog for a walk quick and easy.
Material
Though the material is part of durability, there are particular concerns you need to consider regarding what your dog’s collar is made of.
Basic collars are typically made of nylon webbing or leather, which are generally safe but simply won’t last long if you have an active breed, like a pit bull.
However, some collars are made of high-grade, heavy-duty (or even military-grade) material and are perfect for heavy pullers such as pit bulls.
Make sure that the collar you choose is made from material that will be comfortable on your dogs skin and not cause any irritation, but is strong enough to last a long time.
Size
Sizing is one of the most critical parts of dog collar safety.
A collar that’s too tight can obstruct your dog’s airways and make it difficult for them to breathe. It could even cause injury to your dog’s throat. On the other hand, any pit bull could wiggle out of a dog collar that’s too loose.
To size your pit bull properly for a dog collar, it’s always best to measure around the neck, just above the chest and shoulders. Measure with a snug fit and add two inches to get your ideal dog collar length.
You know you got it right when there’s enough space for about two finger-widths when you insert your fingers between the collar and your dog’s body.
Style
Dressing your dog up in style is one of the perks that bring joy to being a pet parent.
Although this might come only after safety and durability in your list of priorities, it’s unashamedly a valid consideration. Thankfully, dog models on Instagram and other social media platforms do a good job of showing what’s currently on trend and what are canine fashion faux pas.
Nevertheless, the best style is really based on your personal preferences.
So whether you’re attracted to leather, spiked or Cuban link chains that are all the rage among pit bull owners, there really aren’t any wrong choices.
How do you choose the best Dog Collar?
Taking the above features into consideration, there’s only one clear choice for your next Pitbull Collar.
Tactical collar
A tactical collar is the first choice for many dog lovers that want a dog collar that is comfortable for their dogs to wear, yet durable enough to last for ages.
These collars are available in a variety of colors, so getting one that will suit your dog won’t be too much of an issue.
They are made of high-quality, durable material like triple-stitched nylon with neoprene padding. This ensures that your dog’s skin doesn’t get irritated around the points of contact.
They also come with a stainless steel buckle, which is durable and practical. Stainless steel D-rings make for a good anchor point to attach a leash and name tag.
Another consideration is the control handle. Pitbulls are known to be heavy pullers, in other words, they pull really hard when they’re excited. And they’re super strong dogs.
The control handle stitched onto the back of the collar is perfect for the dog owner to keep control of their dog in any situation.
Tactical collars are also slightly wider than the average flat collar. This means that they distribute the force generated by pulling evenly around your dog's neck and doesn’t choke them.
Dog Collars Available for Your Pit Bull
If, for some reason, you decide that a tactical collar isn’t the best option for your pup, have a look at one of these four options. Consider each one to determine which one best suits your handling technique, safety standards, and style preferences.
1) Flat Collar
Every dog will have a flat collar since it is generally considered as the most practical option. They’re readily available and come in a variety of patterns and colors.
Plus, they’re easy to put on and off, especially when they come with a quick-release buckle. This small scrap of nylon or leather usually provides enough control over pit bulls that have been trained to walk loosely on a lead.
2) Choker Chain Collar
The choker chain is generally considered as a training tool used on hard pullers and dogs with behavioral issues. They’re usually made of metal links that complete a chain meant to tighten around your dog’s neck when they pull on the lead.
Behavioral corrections are also communicated by jerking on lead, which exerts pressure around the neck. While some behaviorists swear by this, it can be a dangerous accessory at the hands on an untrained handler.
3) Martingale Dog Collar
The Martingale collar is similar to the choker because they tighten around a dog’s neck to aid in correcting their behavior. These are usually made with wide scraps of nylon webbing, a metal link chain, or a combination of both.
Although it also serves to exert pressure around a dog’s neck, they’re generally considered a safer choker alternative because they can’t tighten to the point of actual choking.
Perfect for heavy pullers and dogs that get excited quickly, martingale collars offer relative comfort to the wearer and control to the dog owner.
4) Cuban Link Chain Collar
The Cuban link dog collar is basically a pimped out version of your typical flat collar.
Though it started out as a trendy piece of dog jewelry, they’re now being made into strong, hard-wearing dog collars that can withstand the pull of even an adult pit bull. These are a well-loved option because they’re remarkably durable and look incredibly hip.
The Best Type of Dog Collar for Your Pit Bull
Unless you’re working with a behaviorist that advises otherwise, the only collars you should consider for your pit bull are the tactical collar and the more on-trend Cuban link dog chain.
The tactical collar is one of the best collars for any medium to large breed of dogs, including Pitbull terriers.
They’re made of super strong military-grade material which means they last a very long time. They don’t hurt your dog in any way and don’t choke when pulled on.
So rather than training from a discomfort point of view, they help you use positive reinforcement to get the desired response from your Pitbull dog.
The material is easy to clean and can be thrown in the wash along with your other household items.
The Cuban dog collar is possibly the most iconic piece of jewelry when it comes to canine designer fashion. But more than being a stylish dog necklace that perfectly suits the pit bull’s stoic expression yet spunky personality, a well-crafted gold chain dog collar doesn’t fray and won’t snap even when subjected to a strong dog’s pulling power.
Pair it with a Cuban Link Leash and a Letter Pendant and you will for sure turn heads anywhere you go!
Pit bulls might be incredibly powerful, but some effort on training and a well-made collar should be all you need to enjoy their company. Whether you choose a gold dog chain or any of the other available pit bull collars, always be sure to invest in high-quality ones that fasten securely so you can take your pup out for walks and leisure trips with safety and confidence.