Dog Collars

How to Make Dog Collars and Leashes

2011-04-25T23:27:00.000-07:00

If you want to custom make your own dog collar and leash to give your pet that "personalized" look, but hate dressing your pet up, then making your own dog collars and leashes can be the perfect way to give you pooch that perfect --- but not prissy --- accessory. You can easily construct a collar and leash to match every outfit, up to and including your own.

Difficulty:: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Your choice of material (anything from leather to nylon to velvet)
Sewing machine
Needle
Thread
Plastic backpack clips and large key ring
Nylon or hemp rope (any type and length, not less than 5 feet)
Plastic loop joiner
A standard carabineer

Making a Dog Collar
- 1
  Hem the collar.
  Fold over the materials for your collar and sew them together, first one side and then the other. Use a zig zag stitch to hold things firmly and prevent fraying. If you are using leather and want big rustic style loops, you can use thick waxed thread and do the same thing with a needle and thread.
- 2
  Attach the fastener.
  Fold over your material and thread it though the female end of the plastic clip. Sew the loop together so that the clip is held at one end of the collar.
- 3
  Fold over your material and thread it through both the key ring and the male end of the plastic clip and sew them together. You should use the same type of tight, small loop of fabric that you used on the female end. This will be the collar. Based on your pet's neck size, allow about ½ inch clearance on all sides. If you have more, then fold the collar and stitch it to take it in.
- 4
  Make the handle for the leash.
  On the end of your rope that you will hold on to, take the plastic joiner, make the loop in the rope that is comfortable for your hand, insert the end into the joiner, and seal it down. Most will have either a lever that uses pressure in place, or a sticky strip that will hold the ends together permanently.
- 5
  Tie the other end to a carabineer.
  The carabineer's spring hinged door will allow you to easily clip the leash onto the key ring so that you can now take your pet for a walk. You can now use your custom made leash to walk your pet on his custom made collar.

How to Adjust Dog Collars

2011-04-25T23:22:00.000-07:00

Adjusting your dogs collar the correct way is very beneficial to your dogs well being. Placing the collar on your dogs neck and adjusting the collar correctly will help to control your dogs behavior and movement. Adjusting your dogs collar correctly will ensure your dogs safety and well being while your dog is wearing the collar.

Difficulty:: Easy

Instructions

Dog
Dog collar

- 1
  Place the collar on your dogs neck. Slide the free end of the collar into the fastener.
- 2
  Place two fingers between the neck and the collar. Tighten the collar enough so that your fingers can move freely between the neck and the collar.
- 3
  Adjust the collar to accommodate the width of your fingers between the neck and the collar. Fasten the collar using the buckle.
- 4
  Let your dog wear the collar for two hours. Check to make sure that the collar is secure and is staying in place.
- 5
  Make sure that the collar is not to tight. Adjust the collar if necessary.

How to Make Beaded Dog Collars

2011-04-25T23:20:00.000-07:00

One of the popular collar designs for dogs is the beaded collar look. Many of these collars are quite expensive, and they can also be hard to find. It is fairly easy to make your own beaded dog collar. All it takes is a few supplies and about 1 week to complete the bead work. This project saves money for the owner and also makes a great gift for the any kind of dog lover. Just make sure what size the dog is before starting the project.

Difficulty:: Moderate

Instructions

Cloth or leather dog collar Paper Pencil or pen Sturdy thread Small plastic beads Embroidery needle Scissors

- 1
  Decide what beading design you want to use for your dog's collar. There are thousands of options to choose from. If you are new to beading, then a simple design, such as a repeating pattern, will be the easiest to work with. Take a pencil and paper, and draw a scaled outline of your dog's collar. Create a template on that paper to use as a guide for the actual bead work later.
- 2
  Count how many of each kind and color of bead that you will need. Go to any craft or hobby store to purchase the beads. Make sure that none of the beads that you buy are glass. Glass can easily shatter, which could cause injury to your dog.
- 3
  Thread the embroidery needle with the thread. Tie a knot at one end. Poke the needle through the collar where the first bead is to be placed. Place a bead in that spot and then thread the needle through it and out the back side of the collar. Sew 2 to 3 loops on each bead so that they do not come off easily. Bead every bead in this manner. Start with the outline of the collar first.
- 4
  Fill in the rest of the bead work with the other bead colors and middle portions of the design. Make sure to keep count of the beads so that the lines and colors are even. In many cases, it will be necessary to keep count of how many beads should be on each row.
- 5
  Finish the collar by placing the needle through the back side of the collar once more. Tie a sturdy knot against the collar to hold the beads into place. Cut the rest of the thread with scissors. Place the collar around your dog and admire your handiwork.

About Dog Collars

2011-04-25T23:15:00.000-07:00

About Dog Collars

Dog collars are one of the essential items every dog owner must have. Whether the dog is a precious little fluff ball or an athletic working dog, a collar is beneficial for any dog and its owner. Collars help owners train their dogs, help identify dogs if they get lost and can be a fun and funky fashion statement for pets.

Function
- A dog collar is an accessory that enables owners to take their dogs out of the house. It is worn like a necklace around the dog's neck and should be secure but comfortable. The collar is also an important training device. When used with a leash, it teaches dogs how to behave in public. If a dog has a habit of running whenever he is taken outside, a collar and leash can be used to keep it within range of its owner. Also, dog collars display dog tags, which should include the dog's name and her owner's contact information, as well as proof of vaccinations from the veterinarian's office.
Types
- Choke chains can help train a dog, but do not use them on puppies.
  Several types of collars are available, and the type of collar a dog wears should depend on his or her size and its amount of activity. A buckled collar consists of a flat strip of nylon or leather that connects around the dog's neck with an adjustable buckle, exactly like a belt. These do not tighten around the dog's neck once they are fastened. Quick-release collars are similar, but they consist of a clasp that snaps into place and is quicker to take on and off. Slip collars and choke chains are used as training tools and they will tighten around a dog's neck if pulled on. These collars can be effective for training, especially if a dog tends to pull his owner when out for walks, but they should never be used on puppies.
Features
- A dog collar should be simple and functional, and it should include a few basic features. A collar will be ineffective unless it has a metal hoop for connecting the leash. This hoop is also used for attaching dog tags. Collars should securely fasten around a dog's neck, either with a buckle or clasp, or a slip ring. Buckle and quick-release collars should be adjustable to fit a range of different size dogs.
Identification
- Jeweled collars can be fun and fancy, but be careful because they can also be a choking hazard.
  To meet the needs of fashion savvy dogs and owners, collars come in an assortment of colors and patterns. The most common material used to make collars is a nylon blend, which is soft and comfortable for dogs. Leather is also frequently used and is a good option for large, strong dogs since leather collars will be more resilient to wear and tear. Metal chains are also a common choice for big dogs, especially when they are being trained. Collars can be found with many different patterns, from pirate skulls to princess crowns, and they sometimes have attached accessories. Use caution when purchasing a collar with rhinestones or other such decorations on it, since if they are not attached securely they can be a choking hazard to the dog.
Benefits
- Collars, when used with leashes, are one of the most beneficial items a dog owner can have. An increasing number of shops and even cafes are allowing people to bring their dogs inside with them, as long as the pet is on a leash. Public parks are a great place for dogs to exercise and have fun, but most also have collar and leash requirements. Dog collars enable dogs to visit different places and to run around more freely than they could if confined inside. This helps keep dogs healthy and youthful and provides an opportunity for owners to exercise as well. Also, a dog collar is used to hold tags with owner contact information. If a dog ever gets lost or runs away, it is more likely for him to be returned to its owner if the collar has its name and contact information with him when he is found. Though they are simple, collars add to the overall health and safety of dogs.

How to Choose a Cool Collar for your Dog

2011-04-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

Choose a Cool Collar for your Dog

I'm not a big fan of dressing my dogs in clothes, so I rely on cool collars to up their style quotient. Plain leather or nylon used to be the only choices, but now there are literally scores of different styles to choose from, starting at about four bucks and up. Here's how the pick the perfect one for your pooch.

Difficulty:: Easy

Instructions

- 1
  
  Using a tape measure, determine your dog's neck size, then add two to three inches. You don't want the collar to be loose enough to come off over her head and you definitely don't want it to be too tight, which can cause choking and skin irritation. Different manufacturers label their small, mediums and larges differently, but the neck measurement (15"-17", for example) should be on the product tag.
- 2
  
  If your dog is a puppy and still growing, an adjustable collar is a must, and you should check the fit often. There are collars for every conceivable size of dog from teacup to super gigantor. You'll need a smaller lightweight collar for a little guy and a heavy-duty wide one for the big lugs.
- 3
  Most pet stores are more than happy to see non-human shoppers, so if at all possible, take your dog with you to the store to try the collar on. You should be able to fit two fingers flat between the collar and her neck for the best fit.
- 4
  
  For training, I highly recommend what's called a "Martingale" collar. They're nylon collars with a loop that basically acts as a choke chain. They're much gentler on the dog's neck when you correct them. Pinch collars with the sharp metal prongs? We'll pass...
- 5
  
  All dog collars should have tags with ID info and phone number attached at all times. If the metal tag's jangling bugs you, there are actually plastic tag covers you can by to prevent this. You can also have personalized collars made for around ten bucks.
  My dogs have their collars and tags on them every minute except for bathing. God forbid, something should happen and they get out and the person doesn't know from checking a microchip...
- 6
  
  As for style, go wild! There's everything from super deluxe Swarovski crystals to funky, mod designs to crocodile skin to holiday themes to plain nylon in every conceivable color and at every price point.
- 7
  
  I like my dogs' collars to match or contrast, not clash, with their coloring, but that's just personal preference. There are collars to match every style--even your favorite football, college or baseball team.
- 8
  
  Finally, if you're out walking your dog at night, there are even lighted and glow-in-the-dark collars. Why not invest in more than one for any situation or style emergency?

How to Fit a Dog Collar

2011-04-13T07:57:00.001-07:00

Fit a Dog Collar

A dog collar is an essential piece of gear for any dog owner. It's an excellent place to display your dog’s license tags, and is helpful in handling the animal should the need arise. Properly fitting the collar is important, as an improperly sized dog collar is of no benefit to either you or your pet.

Difficulty:: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Measuring tape

- 1
  Measure your dog’s neck to estimate her collar size. Hold the tape in the middle of your dog’s neck and measure the circumference from that point. Add 2" to the result so you can purchase a collar that is big enough to adjust.
- 2
  Select your collar. Modern dog collars come in all shapes and sizes, from rich leather to brightly colored flat webbing. Choose a collar that is sturdy enough to withstand wear and tear and will not bleed dye onto your dog’s coat.
- 3
  Place the collar around your dog’s neck. The collar should be wide enough to be comfortable, but not so large that the material will press into his neck while he performs everyday tasks like eating or drinking.
- 4
  Slide the free end of the collar through the fastening mechanism. Most collars have a buckle system to secure them around a dog’s neck, so be sure you place the secure end properly.
- 5
  Adjust the collar to the appropriate size and fasten the buckle. The collar should be tight enough that it does not fall off, but loose enough that your dog can move her head up and down and not choke while performing normal daily activities.
- 6
  Allow your dog to wear his new collar for a few hours and check to make sure that it is staying secure. Some materials stretch a little during wear, so readjust the collar as necessary to ensure proper fit.

How to Sew a Dog Collar

2011-04-13T07:56:00.001-07:00

Whether you would like to save money or put your creativity to work making a one-of-a-kind collar for your dog, this is a simple and fun project that will have a completed collar for your dog in a matter of hours. Anyone with even a little sewing experience can easily make a fun and attractive dog collar.

Difficulty:: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Nylon webbing Ribbon in a smaller width than webbing Parachute buckle Brass D-ring (width across the flat side same as webbing width) Sewing machine Sewing notions (scissors, thread, pins, etc.) Assorted embellishments (optional)

- 1
  Measure the dog's neck. Add six inches to this measurement. This is the length of webbing and ribbon necessary to make the collar. When purchasing the webbing, the width is up to you, but recommended collar width for small dogs is 1/2 inch to 1 inch, for medium dogs it is 1 inch to 2 inches, and for large dogs the recommended width is 1 inch to 2.5 inches.
- 2
  Cut a length of webbing according to the measurement taken in Step 1. Cut a length of ribbon one inch longer than the webbing.
- 3
  Layer the ribbon over the webbing with both facing right-side up. Center the length of ribbon width-wise the length-wise over the webbing (1/2 inch of ribbon extending beyond each webbing end). Wrap the ribbon ends over the edges of the webbing and pin to secure.
- 4
  Sew just inside the ribbon along each long edge of the ribbon to attach the ribbon to the webbing.
- 5
  Unclip the buckle. Take the three-pronged end of the buckle and thread the right side of the sewn webbing strip through the buckle. As you do this make sure that the curve of the buckle follows how the collar will curve when it is on the dog's neck. Pull several inches of the webbing through the buckle opening and insert it back through the next buckle opening. Allow approximately three inches of excess webbing to be sewn down. Stitch across the webbing twice to secure this side of the buckle.
- 6
  Place the D-ring onto the webbing and position it roughly in the center of the collar. Thread the other half of the buckle onto the webbing in the same manner as the first half. Make sure that this half of the buckle also follows how the collar will curve when it is on the dog's neck.
- 7
  Fit the collar to the dog to make sure it is comfortable, but not too loose. It is recommended that two fingers fit under the collar for proper fit. When the collar fit is adjusted properly, pin the collar to secure it from moving out of adjustment.
- 8
  Stitch across the collar twice to secure the other half of the buckle.
- 9
  Sew another parallel line across the collar approximately one inch from the last stitching line. Position the D-ring beside this stitching line and stitch 1/2 inch on the other side of the D-ring to keep it from moving along the collar to finish the collar

How to Make a Leather Dog Collar

2011-04-13T07:50:00.000-07:00

Use vegetable-tanned leather to make a collar for your dog. You can make it in any width, length or color you choose.

Difficulty:: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Flat Work Surfaces
Spray Bottles
Vegetable-tanned Leathers
Buckles
Clean White Cloth
Measuring Tapes
Razor Knives
Sponges
Water
Newspaper
Newspaper
Pencils
Pencils
Saddle Soaps
Rulers
Straightedges
Pencils
Water
Sponges

- 1
  Determine the desired length and width of the collar and cut the collar from the leather. See "Cut Leather," under Related eHows, for instructions. Make the length of the collar equal to the dog's neck measurement plus 3 to 4 inches. The width of the collar should be equal to the interior width of the buckle.
- 2
  Decide what shape you want the free collar end to take. You can make it pointed, rounded, square ' whatever shape you like. Mark the collar end and use a razor knife and straight edge to cut it to the desired shape.
- 3
  Fold the uncut edge of the collar back so that a crease is made 1 1/2 inches from the collar end. Place a slot punch on the collar so that the punch's end evenly intersects the crease at the crease's center point.
- 4
  Hold the handle portion of the punch and strike the top with a wood or rawhide mallet. Repeat until the punch has completely punctured the leather.
- 5
  Use a rotary punch or drive punch and mallet to make four rivet holes in the leather for the buckle. The diameter of the rivets and the punched holes should be equal, and the holes should be placed evenly around the slot. The first two holes should be placed 1/4 inch from the collar end, each hole 1/4 inch from the collar's edges.
- 6
  Place the second set of holes on the other side of the slot so that when the collar end is folded back along the crease line, both sets of holes match up evenly.
- 7
  Use an edge beveler to trim all of the collar's edges. Do any tooling or decorative stamping at this time as well.
- 8
  Use leather dye to color the collar if desired. See "Dye Leather," under Related eHows, for instructions. Allow the leather to dry completely and then use a clean, white cloth to rub neat's-foot oil or saddle soap along the length of the collar. Polish and remove the excess oil or soap with newspaper or rag paper.
- 9
  Insert the buckle prong through the punched slot so that the buckle is correctly positioned. Fold the uncut collar end back so that the rivet holes are lined up, and insert the rivets from the underside of the collar. Place the collar end on a flat work surface and affix the rivet caps to the rivets with a mallet.
- 10
  Determine the placement of the holes through which the buckle's prong will be inserted. Put the collar around the dog's neck. On the back of the collar, mark a hole position that will result in the collar being positioned comfortably but securely around the dog's neck.
- 11
  Mark just one hole or a series of holes that are spaced about 1 inch apart and continue to the collar's free end. Many holes might be a good idea if your dog still has some growing to do.
- 12
  Punch the holes with a rotary punch or a drive punch and mallet. Make sure that the holes are centered.

Tips & Warnings

Determine the desired length and width of the dog collar before you go to purchase the leather and buckle.
Adjust the rivet placement if necessary. You may need to adjust their placement depending on how narrow the collar is. Just make sure that the rivets are evenly placed.
Keep the leather evenly dampened while you work it. This makes the leather easier to manipulate. Either spray the entire piece lightly with a spray bottle of water or dampen with a sponge.
Look for rivets and punches with a diameter of approximately 1/8 inch.
Insert a metal or leather loop over the collar end before beginning step 9. The loop should sit between the rivets and the buckle.
Look for appropriate-size buckle sets that come with a buckle, metal belt loop and metal belt end.

Dog Collars

How to Make Dog Collars and Leashes

Instructions

things you'll need:

Making a Dog Collar

How to Adjust Dog Collars

Instructions

things you'll need:

How to Make Beaded Dog Collars

Instructions

things you'll need:

About Dog Collars

Function

Types

Features

Identification

Benefits

How to Choose a Cool Collar for your Dog

Instructions

How to Fit a Dog Collar

Instructions

things you'll need:

How to Sew a Dog Collar

Instructions

things you'll need:

How to Make a Leather Dog Collar

Instructions

things you'll need:

Tips & Warnings