High Performance Dog Food, Supplements and Nutritional Products

First & foremost, check your collar for weak points. O rings, D rings, buckles, fatigued leather or nylon. Check adjustment holes for egging or out of round wear. If the collar is leather, wipe it down and use a product similar to Neats Foot to treat the leather. If your collar is Nylon you can hand wash it or simply put it in a washing machine.

The most common piece of hardware used to secure dogs is the Thumb Bolt System. You will see this system used on leashes & chains all over the world. Most are made of brass, some are chrome. The brass may hold up better. First check for slop or looseness. Any doubts as to the integrity of this clip or it's swivel replace clip at once! This system has a visible spring that should be oiled several times per year. (The swivel should also be lubricated) After oiling, the bolt should be checked for an audible click & quick travel to the locked position. The larger thumb bolt clips have heavier springs.  However, should you use your leash with a choker & do a strong leash correction with the larger clips you risk striking the dog's mouth. This may break teeth.....be careful! When you clip a dog's collar be certain the bolt has returned to the locked position. Do not assume!!!

If you are using a belt collar, be certain you can not see day light between the collar & the nape of the dogs neck. If you do see day light you must tighten the collar. When adjusted properly you will have difficulty passing your hand under the collar. Continue to adjust the collar until the resistance is adequate. Make certain the dog is comfortable.

Should you chain an aggressive dog outside,a heavy threaded oval ring with an adjustable sleeve would be superior & stronger than a thumb bolt. This type of appliance can be found in most hardware stores & can be used with lock tite or similar products for additional safety.