With so many different types of leashes and collars to choose from, no wonder many dog owners' just decide on their favorite football team and be done with it! If you're struggling to decide on a leash and collar for your dog, the following article will discuss the in's and out's of each. So let's take a look more closely below.

Dog leashes come in many varieties. Whether your dog is an adult dog that has been walking on a leash for years or a puppy who is still trying to chew his way through one, there are better leashes than others.

There are basically four types of leashes to choose from; noting that each of these leashes come in different weights and materials. The four most common types are:

1. Retractable leashes: If you like to allow your dog to roam and sniff here and there, this is a great leash choice. To consider with these leashes is the safety of what the dog might get into as he is sniffing his way through the walk. Lawn fertilizers and toxic bug sprays are examples of these considerations. As long as you are aware of the potential dangers, the retractable leash works fine.

2. Leather leashes: If you are training or use the heel command when walking your dog, a six foot long, leather leash is best. If you do not use the heel command, a six foot long leather may give you better control, however it also may give you a continually aching shoulder as your dog pulls you while roaming and sniffing.

3. Bungee leashes: Usually a six foot leash that constantly maintains tension. This aids tremendously in preventing the pulling. Additionally, since the bungee takes up the slack, it is less likely the leash will cause the dog or you to trip.

4. Hands free leashes: These leashes are hands free. They snap around your waist and are usually six feet in length. Great leashes if you hike or jog with your dog.

Dog collars are usually made out of knitted nylon, leather, rope or chain link. Of these materials listed below are the most common types of collars:

1. Regular collars: Small dogs or dogs that are walked on the heel command do fine with regular collars.

2. Harness collars: Harness collars discourage dogs from pulling. They strap around the dogs chest and if the dog pulls, the harness collar directs pressure onto the dog. The goal of this collar is to inhibit the dog from straining against the leash.

3. Choke and Prong chain collars: These work great on giant dogs with super thick fur. Additionally, it is a sure bet your dog will not be able to slip out of this collar. If the dog pulls the chain around the neck of the dog tightens. There is great debate to the ethical nature of these types of collars, as they can cause permanent damage to a dog if used abusively or as a matter of leash correction.