3 Reasons to Chose a Flat Collar vs Rolled Collar

2 min read

I think you’ll agree with me when I say…

There are many different types of collars for your dog. Each has a specific use or function to control or train your dog… or to simply make a fashion statement.

There are martingale collars, choke collars, electronic shock collars, prong collars, harnesses, and head halters, but the two most popular collars in today’s market are flat collars, and rolled collars.

This makes choosing between a flat collar or a rolled collar a nightmare.

Or is it?

I’ll show you 3 proven reasons why rolled collars are dangerous, and why you should opt for a flat collar instead.

It turns out, we always hear the same thing about rolled collars… they prevent coat damage and matting on long haired dogs…

…But what’s the real story?

1. Rolled collars can damage your dog’s fur

Rolled collars can damage your dog’s fur or coat just as much, or more, than flat collars. How can you prevent hair matting under the collar?

Brush your dog’s hair regularly. Brush your dog’s hair at least once a week and after every walk. Leaves and grass can get lodged into the fur and cause knots or matts.

Bath your dog more often. Bathing alone won’t get rid of the matts and tangles, but can clean off any debris that gets stuck in the fur that causes knots. Be sure to cut out knots or matts as soon as they start forming.

Remove your dog’s collar when you get home. Removing your dog’s collar when you get home also prevents flat spots from forming around your dog’s neck.

2. Rolled collars apply too much pressure to your dog’s windpipe

Rolled leather collars risk damaging the trachea. They are much thinner and narrower than flat collars. Wide, flat collars, evenly distribute the pressure on the trachea and are less dangerous.

Absolutely NEVER put rolled collars on puppies, they are a choking hazard.

3. Rolled collars can worsen eye conditions

According to a study done by the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association in 2006, “pressure generated when dogs pull while wearing these collars raises the pressure in the eye. As a result, it may worsen the clinical signs or disease progression in dogs with glaucoma, thin corneas, and other eye conditions where the pressure in the eye is an issue.”

…And the AKC (American Kennel Club) doesn’t recommend rolled collars on their website.

So there you have it…

Flat collars are regarded as the strongest and most practical dog collar available suitable for everyday use and are perfect for growing puppies as they can be resized as needed. They are most commonly made using a buckle similar to a belt buckle, or a quick-release buckle to hold the collar loosely around the dog's neck. They most often come with a D-ring, an essential safety feature to attach your dog's license, registration, identification tag or rabies tag.

Bottom line?

If you are planning on adopting a puppy into your family, consider flat leather dog collars for their durability, longevity and style, without the dangers of rolled collars.

3 Reasons to Chose a Flat Collar vs Rolled Collar

1. Rolled collars can damage your dog’s fur

2. Rolled collars apply too much pressure to your dog’s windpipe

3. Rolled collars can worsen eye conditions

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