How should a dog wear a flea collar? - briefly
Place the flea collar snugly around the dog’s neck, leaving enough room to fit two fingers between the collar and the skin, and secure the fastener so it is tight enough to stay in place but not so tight as to restrict breathing or movement.
How should a dog wear a flea collar? - in detail
A flea collar must sit snugly around the dog’s neck without restricting breathing or movement. Follow these steps to achieve a correct fit:
- Measure the neck circumference. Use a flexible tape measure, adding 1 – 2 cm (½ inch) to allow slight adjustment.
- Choose a collar sized for the measured length. Most products list a range (e.g., 30–45 cm). Select the size that includes the dog’s measurement.
- Open the clasp or sliding buckle. Place the collar behind the dog’s head, ensuring the metal or plastic portion rests against the skin, not the fur.
- Pull the collar forward until the marked “adjust” indicator aligns with the dog’s neck measurement. The collar should be tight enough that two fingers can slide underneath.
- Secure the fastener. For a slide‑adjustable buckle, lock it in place; for a snap‑type, press the two halves together firmly.
- Inspect the fit. The collar should sit level, not tilt toward the dog’s chest or back. Verify that the dog can turn its head comfortably.
- Monitor the dog for the first 24 hours. Check for signs of irritation, excessive rubbing, or the collar slipping off. Re‑adjust if necessary.
Additional considerations:
- Remove the collar while bathing or if the dog shows persistent discomfort.
- Replace the collar according to the manufacturer’s recommended lifespan, typically 6–12 months.
- Keep the collar away from other pets to prevent accidental transfer of chemicals.
Correct placement maximizes the collar’s efficacy against fleas while maintaining the animal’s comfort and safety.