What Kind of Collar Should I Get for My Wrinkly Dog?
Dogs with wrinkles such as English Bulldogs, French Bulldogs, and Pugs need special care to prevent irritation and other skin problems in between their folds and wrinkles. One important part of taking care of a wrinkly dog is choosing the right type of collar. In this article, we'll discuss the best types of collars for your wrinkly pooch.
First, let's talk about the different types of collars available and why they might work better for dogs with wrinkles than regular collars. Then, we'll discuss some practical considerations to keep in mind when choosing a collar for your wrinkly dog, such as ideal sizing and comfortable materials. Finally, we'll take a look at some specific products designed specifically for wrinkly dogs, so you can find the perfect collar for your pup.
Types of Collars for Wrinkly Dogs
Collars come in all shapes and sizes, but some are better suited for dogs with skin folds or wrinkles. Let's take a look at some of the most common types of collars for wrinkly dogs:
1. Breakaway collars. These collars are designed to break away if your dog pulls too hard or gets stuck somewhere, minimizing the risk of injury to your pup. They tend to be made from soft, flexible materials that are more comfortable and soothing for a dog with sensitive skin.
2. Flat collars and harnesses. Some people prefer flat collars or even harnesses for their wrinkle-skinned dogs because they provide more room for the skin folds to lay smoothly and don't put pressure on any particular area of the neck or chest. Because bulldogs and pugs are more prone to breathing issues caused by airway obstructions, the less pressure there is around the dog's neck region, the easier it will be for them to breathe. A harness distributes pressure evenly across the chest, preventing the dog's airways from getting obstructed.
3. Martingale collars. These collars are similar to flat collars, but they tighten if your dog tries to pull or get loose. They are great for training in that they allow gentle corrections, but the double loop design of the collar allows it to stay snug around the dog’s neck without choking them. This is particularly important for brachycephalic breeds that are already more susceptible to breathing issues. In addition, martingale collars offer the advantage of being more adjustable than traditional collars, making them a good choice for dogs that tend to grow out of their collars quickly.
Practical Considerations When Choosing a Collar for Your Wrinkly Dog
There are some practical considerations you'll also need to keep in mind when choosing a collar for your wrinkly dog. These include:
1. Size and fit. It's important to choose a collar that fits well, as too-tight or too-loose collars can be uncomfortable and even dangerous for your pup. You should ideally measure your dog's neck size before buying a collar, and then be sure to choose one that allows for a little wiggle room.
2. Material. You'll also want to consider the material of your dog's collar. Soft, flexible materials tend to work better for dogs with sensitive skin or creases in their neck or face area. Some options include neoprene, nylon webbing, and cotton fabric.
3. Style and design. Finally, you may want to take your dog's style into account when choosing a collar – after all, they're part of your pup's personal look! Options like patterned fabrics, cool buckles, and custom tags can help make your wrinkly friend stand out from the crowd.
What if my Dog's Wrinkles are Red or Irritated?
Skin folds and wrinkles can get irritated, especially if they are not kept clean and dry. If your dog's skin folds and wrinkles are showing signs of irritation, particularly in the neck and chest area, it might be best to avoid using a collar for a few days or choose a harness that allows more room for their skin folds.
To clean and protect dry and itchy skin folds, use a Squishface Wrinkle Wipe to gently clean away dirt and grime between the folds. The Phytosphingosine in our wipes provides anti-inflammatory and microbe repelling properties. It helps rebuild the natural ceramides found in the skin barrier that are critical in helping keep the skin healthy.
After the area is clean and dry, use Squishface Wrinkle Paste to form a water-repellent barrier on the skin surface which keeps moisture, yeast, fungus, and other bacteria at bay.
The Bottom Line
If you have a dog with wrinkles, it's important to choose the right collar for them. The best types of collars for wrinkly dogs include breakaway collars, flat collars, and martingale collars. When choosing a collar, be sure to consider size, material, and style so that your pup stays happy and healthy. If your dog's skin folds look dry or irritated, avoid using a collar for a few days or use a harness and use Squishface Wrinkle Wipes and Wrinkle Paste to clean and protect the area. As always, if you suspect that your pooch's skin may be infected, make an appointment with your veterinarian.
For more tips and tricks on keeping your wrinkly dog happy and healthy, check out our blog every week.
