The Best Dog Collar for Your French Bulldog
Frenchies have become one of the most popular breeds, undoubtedly spurred on by their domination over social media. Dog influencers endorse so many different types of collars on platforms like Facebook and Instagram. Among the most popular are the Cuban dog collar, the common flat collar, the choke chain, and the Martingale. There are also conflicting opinions on whether a collar or harness is best for a Frenchie.
Given the bombardment of recommendations online, it can be difficult to determine which one really is the best choice for your French bulldog. It helps to first understand the typical concerns regarding Frenchies and their accessories, as well as the benefits of each one. Only then can you consider the current trends that will enhance your pup’s inherent charm and keep them up to date on the latest in dog fashion.
Collars vs Harnesses - Which is Better For Your French Bulldog?
When it comes to choosing between a collar or harness for your french bulldog, there are a few things to take into consideration.
French Bulldogs have a unique body structure that makes them more susceptible to respiratory issues and neck injuries, especially if they pull on a leash while walking.
To ensure the safety and comfort of your furry friend, it is recommended to use a harness instead of a collar. A harness helps distribute the pressure evenly across the dog's chest and back, reducing the risk of injuries and allowing for more controlled walking.
As a responsible pet owner, it's important to prioritize your French Bulldog's health and well-being, and using a harness is a simple yet effective way to do just that.
Concerns Regarding Frenchies and Dog Collars
The French bulldog is among the breeds considered as “brachycephalic,” which means short-headed, or flat-faced. This condition often leads to breathing-related problems.
Although not all Frenchies will experience this, their bodies make them more prone to a condition called Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome (BOAS). The condition affects short-nosed dogs and leads to severe respiratory distress in french bulldogs.
Unsplash/Samuel Charron
Anything that can obstruct or cause injury to their airways—such as pressure from a tight-fitting collar—can lead to more severe, long-term problems.
Another concern with brachycephalic dogs is that their eyes can sometimes pop out of their sockets when they experience trauma to their head or neck. This is something that is known to happen among heavy-pulling Frenchies using the wrong type of collar.
The best collar for a frenchie is adjustable, meaning it can expand or contract with just a minor adjustments. Of course, this is extremely important as you want the collar to be comfortable around your Frenchie’s neck.
Collars also generally have a D-ring which you can attach a name tag, helping you reunite with your furry friend if he gets lost.
Concerns Regarding French Bulldogs and Harnesses
To avoid breathing problems that are relatively common to their breed, harnesses are generally recommended for Frenchies. This is most especially true for those that tend to pull heavily on walks.
The problem with using harnesses for French bulldogs is that they cover a larger area of the body and can sometimes be irritating for Frenchies with sensitive skin.
Plus, the breed is prone to heatstroke, so it’s essential to keep them hydrated, keep walks short during the hot summer months, and find high-quality dog harnesses that are made of breathable fabric.
But regardless of whether or not you want to use a dog harness for walks, you’ll still want to get a dog collar to carry identification or simply to use as a dog necklace to show off your pup’s incredible fashion sense.
Best Dog Collars for Your French Bulldog
The types of French bulldog collars haven't really changed much. It is merely their designs, colors, or patterns that evolve according to to keep up with the latest fashion trends.
Here are a few types of dog collars you can find for your French bulldog:
1. Tactical Collar
What comes to mind when you hear the word tactical? No, tactical collars have nothing to do with the armed forces, jumping out of a helicopter, or carrying a large firearm.
In this case, a tactical collar simply refers to a robust, well-made collar that will last the test of time.
These collars, made and sold by Sparkpaws, are triple stitched. They’re made from premium-grade nylon and are padded with soft neoprene on the inside so the collar is gentle on your dog's skin.
A quick-release metal buckle helps you get the collar on and off your Frenchie, especially because they'll be pulling hard during walks. These tactical collars also have a separate ID ring, allowing you to keep a tag on your dog at all times.
Funky colors keep things interesting and will make your dog the envy of the dog park.
2. Cuban Link Dog Chain
The Cuban link dog collar is a classic gold chain that is considered as a must-have accessory in canine designer streetwear.
What used to be a piece of stylish dog jewelry has been adapted using durable materials and fine craftsmanship to become a functional collar. Now, you’ll find gold dog chains that are more robust versions of the standard collar.
They’re equally safe, even for brachycephalic dog breeds like the Frenchie. Plus, they’re definitely more in-fashion.
Simply measure your dog's neck and order the collar according to the sizing chart provided by Sparkpaws. If you have a french bulldog puppy, make sure to buy one size larger - your puppy will grow into his new collar in no time!
Collars Not Recommended for French Bulldogs
While the above collars are absolutely fantastic and offer just about everything you could possibly want in a french bulldog collar, there are also some collars that you should stay far away from.
Here are three neck collars that could end up harming your French Bulldog and unfortunately give you a trip to the vet.
1. Choke Collar
A choke collar is generally used for training or to exert maximum control over stubborn or powerful dogs.
It works like a noose that tightens around your dog’s neck when you tug or they pull on the leash. Those who use this type of collar believe that dogs eventually learn to avoid the behaviors that cause choking.
Whether or not you subscribe to this dog training belief, you should be concerned about how pressure from this type of collar could harm your Frenchie’s already sensitive throat and airways.
These collars are often used for larger breeds that are harder to control, but because french bulldogs are a smaller breed, they don't really need the enforcement that this collar brings.
Taking their difficulties with breathing into consideration, these types of collars should be stayed far away from.
2. Martingale Collar
The Martingale collar works similarly to the choke collar but can’t choke your dog to the point of asphyxiation.
It is generally considered as a safer alternative to choke collars, and can offer the same training benefits without the same concerns for cruelty and injury.
That's because martingale collars have an adjustable strap that the chain bit attaches to. By adjusting this strap to the minimum allowed size, you can stop the noose from tightening too far.
Nevertheless, the fact that it still inflicts pressure around the neck makes it an unfavorable option for French bulldogs and similar brachycephalic breeds.
3. Shock Collar
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Using a shock collar on a French Bulldog is not recommended.
Shock collars are often marketed as a means of correcting unwanted behaviors, but they can cause harm and unnecessary stress to dogs. French Bulldogs are a sensitive breed that responds well to positive reinforcement training methods.
The use of shock collars can lead to negative associations with training, causing confusion and anxiety in dogs. Additionally, shock collars can cause physical pain and even burn marks on a dog's neck.
It's important to remember that dogs age just like humans, and as they age, they may become more vulnerable to physical and emotional stress.
Therefore, using positive reinforcement training methods is the best way to encourage good behavior and build a strong bond with your furry friend.
What material is best?
When it comes to choosing collars for French bulldogs, many dog owners wonder what the best material is to choose.
And that's a valid question - the options on the market are limitless. Here's a quick look at the different materials available to you:
Leather Collars
Leather collars look awesome. They have a real vintage, sturdy look about them and many people absolutely love this option.
But the hip-factor comes with a price. Leather isn't a breathable material.
They can be extremely uncomfortable for your dog and cause them to sweat during warmer summer months. This is a real issue with French Bulldogs as they already struggle to regulate their body temperature.
Nylon Collars
Nylon is a popular material for dog collars because it is durable, strong, and long-lasting. It can withstand a lot of wear and tear, making it suitable for active dogs and those who enjoy spending time outdoors.
Additionally, nylon is lightweight and comfortable for French Bulldogs to wear, which is important for their overall well-being.
Nylon collars are also easy to clean and maintain, making them a convenient option for pet owners.
Overall, nylon is a great material for French bulldogs due to its combination of strength, comfort, and ease of use.
Conclusion - The Best Dog Collar for French Bulldogs
Given their physical makeup, the only acceptable type of dog collar to use on your French bulldog is either a tactical or a gold chain collar.
Flat collars are the staple choice among dog owners because they’re easy to find, and they come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. They’re also generally inexpensive. The only drawback of using flat collars is that they fray over time.
They also accumulate dirt and smells, so you need to replace them once in a while and wash them regularly. Nevertheless, they’re incredibly safe and convenient options.
A gold dog chain around your dog's neck, on the other hand, is more reflective of today’s fashion trends for dogs. True enough, a French bulldog in a Cuban link gold dog chain is guaranteed to generate likes and follows.
A single well-shot photo could even launch a dog model’s career. The only issue about these fashion accessories is that you need to make sure you find one that’s not just a dog necklace but a heavy-duty chain that’s built to be used as a collar and withstand your French bulldog’s pulling power.
Nowadays, as people constantly post photos that boast their Frenchies’ own clothing and accessories, it’s easy to get caught up in the latest trends and make decisions based solely on them.
Thankfully, there are ways for your pup to stay in style but also keep safe. It’s just up to you as their human to be a discerning shopper and select the right fashion pieces that offer both form and function.