Best LED Dog Collars

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Published:  March 5th, 2021

LED dog collars make sure your pet is visible from afar even when it’s pitch black outside–they are a must-have for night-time walks. Read on to learn more about these dog collars and how to pick the best one for your pet!

While having a dog definitely makes your life better, it doesn’t change the fact that with a four-legged companion also comes great responsibility. Even on your daily walks, you’ll have to be vigilant–if you lower your guard for even a minute, your pupper can get himself in all sorts of troubles. They can run off, rummage around trash, chase other dogs, or even harass a passerby. And as a responsible and caring owner that you are, you want to do your absolute best to prevent this and ensure your pet is safe and always under your control. That means that you’ll have to walk your pet on a leash if you want to make sure they are always within your reach and firmly in your grip- no room for mishaps and accidents if you’re there to keep them in line. You might prefer a collar or a dog harness at the end of the leash- it usually boils down to the owner’s preference, but whatever you choose, you should still include a collar on your pet, for safety reasons. In case of an accident, you’d want your pet’s ID tag to be easily visible and what better way to display them then on the collar? Additionally, the right choice of a dog collar can also help with night visibility.

In the dark, your pet might not be as easily noticeable to drivers of vehicles or other people walking in your direction with their own dog, so it’s important to have something on them that will make them stand out in low visibility conditions. This is where LED dog collars come into play. LED stands for “Light Emitting Diode ” and that’s precisely what gives these collars their unparalleled visibility in the dark. They will shine bright and far, making it absolutely impossible for anyone to miss your pooch on the road, no matter if it’s pitch black outside. Even if your pet happens to get away from you while you walk (accidents happen too often, after all), at least they will be easy to spot which will minimize their chance of being hit by a car. Also, it’ll help you spot them–and catch them before they get into some trouble!

While all LED dog collars share one common trait- and that’s, as the name suggests, the built-in lightning that makes your dog visible in the dark–there are still many important differences that could influence your choice. To help you figure out which LED dog collars will work best for your pet and give you the best value for money, we’ve rounded up the most popular choices on the market–you can’t go wrong with any of the items from our list!

BSEEN LED Collar

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This modern LED collar boasts one of the best designs on the market. Easy to use and great for visibility, the BSEEN collar is an affordable and efficient solution. The first thing to mention is the sizing – simply cut the LED tube to measure and reinsert it into the small hub and ensure a perfect fit for any pooch. The collar is lighted completely, giving better visibility, and it comes in four different colors. It is also fully rechargeable – simply connect it with a USB cable and you’re set. With a touch of the central button, you can choose from the three following modes: slow or fast flashing, and glow. Perfectly adaptable to every circumstance!

Illumiseen LED Dog Collar

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One of the highest quality designs on the market, this Illumiseen collar is durable and fully adjustable as well. It is made from high-quality, thick nylon fabric, into which double LED tubes are incorporated. These can be utilized in three distinct modes – steady, or rapid and slow flashes. In either mode, the collar will make your pet perfectly visible. You can choose from a variety of colors, with the neon ones being the brightest. It too is USB rechargeable, and the battery can last for quite a while. A thing to note is the fact that the Illumiseen brand also offers illuminated leashes that can go perfectly with this collar. That way you can really make sure your pooch stands out in the dark!

Nite Beams LED Pet Collar

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Nite Beams is an advanced, robust design that combines a tough material with a superb LED system. The first thing you will notice is the especially thick and sturdy, extra-wide collar, perfectly suited for medium and large breeds. Even though it lacks USB charging, and is battery operated, it still boasts long life and superb display of light. The collar is easily spotted from as far as 1400 feet! The collar is made from durable high-grade nylon fabric and has a clasp for adjustment, and a security clasp for quick release.

Red Dingo Lumitube Illuminated Dog Safety Collar

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This innovative design offers an efficient solution with a really simple look. The LED tube is cut to fit – that way you are certain it will fit your pupper. The lights are distributed all throughout the tube, and they are connected to a central housing – this is waterproof and highly durable. It is both flexible and tough. Sadly, it is powered with a single AAA battery. While this is by no means an issue, it is less convenient than a USB charger. Either way, it is a very good choice overall.

Penn-Plax American Red Cross LED Necklace

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The American Red Cross offers this illuminated necklace for extra safety in all situations – with a design that is fit for rescue dogs. This extra sturdy, high-quality necklace has a few strong points – such as the extra tough nylon material. The LED hub is made from hard plastic and houses an extra bright LED light, which is also USB rechargeable. It also has added reflective thread to, even more, emphasize the collar in the dark. The tube is cut to fit and attaching it is as simple as possible. With their motto of “Always Ready” the Penn-Plax managed to deliver an extra safe, professional collar for use in all conditions.

Blazin’ Safety LED Dog Collar

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This dog collar is both waterproof and made from tough and durable material- which is not something many LED dog collars can boast with. Blazin’ Safety LED collar is made from strong nylon fabric, extra wide for sturdier fit and a string of LED lights is embedded in the center of the collar. It can be charged from any device and has a strap for easy adjustment. A quick-release clasp makes it easy to detach when needed. A quality collar with a lifetime guarantee!

MASBRILL Light Up LED Safety Collar

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The MASBRILL Light Up LED Safety Collar will keep your pet safe during your early morning or evening walks. It is made with high quality, flat optical fibers that help make it more visible. It is rechargeable so that you aren’t wasting additional money on expensive batteries. A single charge holds for about 10 hours continuously if fully charged.

The MASBRILL Light Up LED Safety Collar is also completely weather-proof and rust-proof. Made with polyester webbing, it is lightweight, strong, and durable even in tough climate conditions. You don’t have to worry about it getting wet or starting to rust on your precious pooch, which makes it great for any environment. The LED lights can also be changed to three different modes for increased visibility: fast flash, steady flat, and constant flash. You can change the modes for the appropriate weather and visibility conditions so that your dog is more easily visible to other people and vehicles. They also come in a variety of colors such as blue, red, pink, purple, orange, and green.

Carhartt Lighted Collar

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Here is a slightly different, but still suitable entry to the list of LED lighted collars. Unlike other collars, it doesn’t have an all-round LED arrangement, but instead, its light is concentrated on a single quick-release clasp. Bright LEDs in a single point still offer more than adequate visibility in most conditions, so if you dislike flashiness of LED dog collars but still want their safety benefits, this is the one to go for. The collar is made from sturdy, stitched nylon fabric, and is fully adjustable. Its LED light has a bright red color and three different modes of operation. Moreover, its three-row stitching is made from reflective material for extra visibility.

HOLDALL Collar

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At first glance, this Holdall collar might not look like a lot – but its quality and the features are more than satisfying. Made from thick nylon fabric, with hard plastic connection points, it is fully adjustable. This collar also has a fully protected LED tube all around and is one of the brightest collars on the market. It comes with a USB cable and is easily charged via a port.

Woody & Winni LED Glowing Collar

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Your pup’s safety is paramount but if their personal style is close second, you’re going to want to take a look at this leather design LED collar from Woody & Winni. The two different designs — blue bones print and red bones print — are adorable. The light up LED tube being the design is crafted to keep your pet safe in dark conditions, like early morning walks or evening walks. It provides high visibility while also being super cute.

The Woody & Winni LED Glowing Collar is also completely rechargeable with the use of a USB cable. It will run for 4 to 6 hours on a single 40 minute charge. There are three glowing modes which include a fast flashing light, a slow flashing light, or a constant light. Modes are easily changed by the push of the button, allowing you to adapt to the needs of your environment. The Woody & Winni LED Glowing Collar is also waterproof and rustproof so your pup can wear it in any weather conditions. The PU leather, nylon webbing, and optical fiber makes it durable and safe for your dog to wear. It comes in a variety of sizes to fit every pup, too.

Key features to consider in LED dog collars

Good quality is key and it’s the same for LED dog collars – it ensures long usage, better visibility, and a stylish look for your dog. Of course, quality collars also need to be durable and waterproof, and to have a long life of the LED’s that are built-in in it. Combining all of these features into a single product is always a challenge – but it’s one we were up to, as all of the LED dog collars we’ve listed are all-around great choices.

Ideally, these types of collars have to suit different types of dog breeds – and that can be tough to achieve. Large breeds often require thick, durable, and robust collars with strong stitching and heavy-duty clasps. Combining these aspects with the efficiency of the LED lights is no easy task. On the other hand, small breeds often need just lightweight basic collars – and LED dog collars are a perfect fit in that case. In the end, it’s easy to see that there are many factors to consider before making a purchase- here are the most important ones:

Durability

Durability is easily one of the most important features to look out for when purchasing a dog collar – both LED and regular. A lot can depend on the quality of the collar, and that means the fabric should not be overlooked. Cheap nylon fabric collars or soft plastic LED ones won’t stand the test of strength – after a bit of rowdy fun in the outdoors, they can show signs of wear and tear. When it comes to LED collars, rubber is often used – it is a safe and sturdy solution, that is both strong and comfortable to wear, and also protects the built-in lights.

Water resistance

Every dog loves a good splash – be it a puddle, pond, or a lake. But this means that your LED collar will need to be adequately protected – otherwise its life will be quite short. Having a waterproof LED collar also means that you won’t have to pay special attention when you decide to give your pet a quick bath to cool off in those hot summer evenings.

Size and adjustability

When it comes to LED dog collars, several different options are available on the market. Some basic models offer you the option to personally cut the collar to measure, while others come in pre-designed sizes. Either way, you should pay extra attention to the size and adjustability as well. Collars that can’t be adjusted might quickly become too tight – especially if your pup is growing. On the other hand, adjustable collars give you a lot of flexibility, making them last much longer.

Brightness and color

For an LED collar, this comes as the most important aspect of all. The brightness of the LED lights varies from insignificant to dazzling, after all. And the brighter the light, the easier it is to spot your pooch, which is the whole purpose of the LED dog collars. Some collars offer different colors as well, and that way you can easily distinguish your own pet from the others, and not confuse the collar with some random bright light in the distance.

Benefits of LED dog collars

Owners that never had experience with accessories such as these might be wondering if they need this gadget in the first place. There are also those owners who learned about the LED collars the hard way – their pet got into trouble, which got them thinking about additional safety measures that they can take on walks. Regardless of which group you belong to, learning more about the benefits of LED dog collars will help you find out if this nifty accessory is something your pet actually needs.

The first and foremost advantage of dog collars with lights is that they make your pooch more visible in low light conditions. This may be during a walk in the evening or early in the morning- you might need to take your pooch out at night, too, and that makes visibility a priority. In the dark, drivers might find it difficult to spot a dog until it’s too late, and other dog owners walking their pets might also need a heads up that another furball is coming their way- especially if their dog is timid or aggressive. Some dog owners rely on reflective stitching to make their pet stand out in the dark, but it’s not always enough: and with bright LED lighting, there’s no room for doubt when it comes to visibility, as you’ll be able to see your pet from far away with ease.

Secondly, walking with what’s essentially a flashlight on four legs will make it easier for you to walk in the dark without tripping over something or failing to see a dangerous obstacle in your way. An LED collar will light the way and make sure that the road ahead of you is clear and bright, regardless of the time.

Lastly, an LED dog collar can end up being a life-saving accessory in case of unexpected and unfortunate situations. Too often, a dog can break away from their leash, either out of fear or curiosity, and that’s when all hell breaks loose- as you’re trying to catch your pooch before he gets hurt or lost. Pawrents who have been in such situations before know that it can all happen in a split second and that it’s incredibly stressful. With a bright LED collar around your pet’s neck, though, spotting them will be easier and you’ll have an easier time catching them than you would without these tiny yet important lights.

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Angela Vuckovic
Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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Enjoying a leisurely walk or adventurous hike with your dog is an incredible way to spend quality time together and strengthen your bond. However, a dog that pulls and lacks leash manners can quickly turn this fun experience upside down.While collars have long been the standard for walking, many veterinarians and trainers are now sharing the benefits of using a harness. They are generally safer and more comfortable for dogs of all ages.However, not every dog will instantly take to wearing a harness the first time they are introduced.In this guide, I will walk you through the steps of introducing a harness to your dog, building positive associations, and setting both you and your dog up for long-term success. From choosing the right harness to mastering the process of putting it on, you’ll be prepared to hit the pavement with your canine companion in style and comfort.What Are the Benefits of Using a Harness?Let's take a step back before I walk you through training your dog to wear a harness. Why should you consider using a harness for your dog? What benefits does it offer over a typical collar?The most significant difference between a collar and a harness, and the reason why most veterinarians and dog trainers recommend harnesses, is the risk of injury. When your dog wears a collar, all pressure is put directly on their throat. If your dog pulls or tries to take off after a temptation (like a squirrel or to play with another dog), the pressure on their throat can cause significant damage. In the most severe cases, the impact of the collar on your dog’s throat can cause a life-threatening injury.Harnesses, on the other hand (or the other paw), disperse the pressure across your dog’s chest. Not only is this a more extensive area, but it’s better suited for handling this pressure without injuries (assuming the harness is properly fit to your dog).Depending on the activities you plan to enjoy with your dog, a harness could introduce additional features. This could include harnesses and support to assist a senior dog with mobility, a cooling harness for hot summer days, a harness with built-in backpacks to carry their gear while hiking, seatbelt attachments for safe car travel, and more. What Age Should Your Dog Start Wearing a Harness?Eight weeks old is the earliest age you should put a harness onto a young puppy. At this age, puppies are generally very open to new skills and experiences, making it the perfect time to introduce something new. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t train your dog to wear a harness if you are considering making this change later in life. Many adults and even senior dogs learn to wear and love their harnesses with a bit of time and a little patience.How Long Does It Take a Dog to Get Used to a Harness? The time it will take for your dog to get used to a harness will vary from dog to dog. Some pups will accept the harness quickly, comfortably wearing it and running around confidently right away. However, this isn’t true for every dog.If your dog is older and set in their ways or nervous when faced with new experiences, working through these steps may take a lot longer. Be patient and focus on creating a positive association with the harness by introducing praise and rewards. Allow your dog to set the pace, moving from one step to the next only when they are ready. This is the best way to set them up for long-term success (the ultimate goal).How to Train Your Dog to Wear a Harness: Step-By-StepBefore you start training, take a moment to consider what motivates your dog. While most dogs can be motivated with high-value treats, you may find your dog is better inspired to try something new with the offer of playtime with a favorite toy or even with simple praise and attention from you, their person. Knowing this is the secret to training success!Step One – Choosing a HarnessThe first thing to consider is the style of harness best suited for your dog. There are several factors to consider when shopping for the right harness. This includes your dog’s size, the weight of the harness, the adjustability, the material, how easy it is to clean, and any special features the harness may offer.You may even need to consider different harnesses for different situations. For example, you may prefer a classic nylon harness for walks around the block with your pup. However, if you are planning a challenging hike, your dog may be better served by a stronger and more supportive adventure harness with a handle to assist with any obstacles along the way.Finding the correct harness is essential, as your training will focus on making that specific harness a positive trigger for your dog. For the training process to be effective, this harness should be used.Step Two – Introduce the HarnessIn the early stages of training, you’re not going to put the harness on your dog. Instead, you want to give them a chance to check it out and realize it’s not something to be afraid of.To begin, place the harness on the ground in the comfort of your own home. Allow your dog to sniff at it and look it over. As they interact with the harness, occasionally offer praise or a treat. This will start to introduce the idea that the harness brings good things.When you see that they give the harness no more interest than a rug or your shoes (assuming they don’t chew your shoes), you can move on to the next step.

Teeth Grinding in Cats: Why It Happens

You already know that people sometimes grind their teeth, but did you know that bruxism can occur in cats, too? This can be caused by pain in the mouth or body, so it is important to have your kitty examined by a veterinarian if you notice the symptoms of bruxism.What is bruxism in cats, what causes it, and what can be done about it? Keep reading to learn a bit about feline bruxism so you’ll know how to recognize it.

Animal Activists Push Back on Culling Strays

From Turkey to Puerto Rico, Tackling Homeless Animals Requires Humanity

These Dog Breeds Are at the Most Risk of Overheating

The dog days of summer are upon us. Temperatures are rising across the country and many cities are already faced with record-breaking heat waves. When extremely hot weather rolls in, it’s not only people who struggle to stay cool and hydrated. Our four-legged companions shouldn’t be forgotten during this hot time as they often have trouble cooling down.“High temperatures can affect dogs differently depending on a variety of factors,” said Angela Beal, DVM. “Generally, it’s advisable to avoid taking your dog out when the temperatures exceed 85°F, especially if the humidity is high.”All dogs can get painful burns on their paw pads when they come into contact with hot pavement, but certain dog breeds are more susceptible to overheating in hot weather. “Dogs have sweat glands mainly in their paw pads, so [their] primary way to cool themselves down is by panting…The brachycephalic airway impacts airflow [so] they are unable to cool themselves down effectively in even mild heat,” explained Petco chief veterinarian, Dr. Whitney Miller. She added that dogs with “longer and thicker coats are also more susceptible to heatstroke.”According to veterinarians, breeds most susceptible to heatstroke include, bulldogs, boxers, pugs, Boston terriers, chow chows, Shih Tzus, golden retrievers, huskies, and malamutes. Dogs like bulldogs, boxers, Boston terriers, pugs, Shih Tzus, chow chows, and French bulldogs are classified as brachycephalic breeds. These dogs have short noses and elongated soft palates that predispose them to breathing problems and make it hard to regulate their body temperature. All of these factors combined, make these pups highly susceptible to heatstroke. On the other hand, breeds like huskies, malamutes, and golden retrievers have longer and thicker double coats that can cause these breeds to overheat during the summer easily. These are the two main reasons for heatstroke in dogs, but Dr. Miller adds that young puppies and senior dogs are also at higher risk of overheating. Owners should also keep a close eye on overweight dogs and canines that aren’t in good physical shape. While these factors make some dogs more susceptible to heatstroke, owners should understand that any dog can overheat during a particularly hot summer day. Preventing your dog from overheating is key if you want to keep them healthy and happy during the summer months. “Provide clean, cool drinking water and access to shade. Never leave your pet outside or in a hot car for a long period of time, regardless of the shade,” said Dr. Miller. She advised dog owners to adjust their walking routines during the summer months to ensure they aren’t taking their dogs out during the hottest hours of the day. Walking your pooch early in the morning and later in the evening is a great way to minimize the risk of overheating and painful paw burns. Maintain a regular grooming routine during the summer months, especially if you own a curly or double-coated pooch. Curly-coated breeds, like poodles, can benefit from having their coat trimmed during the summer, while double-coated breeds like, huskies and chow chows, can experience some relief after being brushed by a professional with a de-shedding tool.When it comes to signs that your dog is getting overheated, look for panting, dark, blue, or red gums and tongue, diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, rapid and deep breathing, weakness, disorientation, and collapse. If your dog is exhibiting any of these symptoms on a hot day, take them to a cool and well-ventilated room and offer them fresh, cool water. If you’re concerned that your pooch is too hot or you can’t cool them down, call your vet right away.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Give Your Cat a Purr-fect Treat

A lot of emphasis gets put on treats that help keep your dog’s teeth clean, but it is also an important consideration for your cat.

Strict Rules for Bringing Your Dog Across the US Border Start Aug 1st

All the Canadians who were considering bringing their pooches across the U.S. border are now facing new and very strict rules. Coming into effect August 1st, this new rule will require all owners to own vet-approved documentation that would prove that the dog was vaccinated against rabies. All those who were used to journeying to the USA will have to navigate these strict new regulations. The new rules were introduced by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and prevent casual crossing of the international border with a canine. Instead, owners are required to present papers to the CDC in advance of a planned trip, and thus prove that their pooch is healthy, vaccinated against rabies, and has a valid microchip. In simpler terms, spontaneous travel to the USA is no longer possible.So, beginning this August 1st, your dog will have to be at least six months old to travel to the U.S. and fulfill all the conditions above as well. Of course, owners have to be understanding too: these new measures are there to keep the U.S. free of rabies. One additional condition on the list is a requirement that “your dog hasn’t been in one of over 100 countries where rabies is not under control, in the previous six months.”To help owners fully understand all these - and other - regulations, the CDC launched its special DogBot application that makes everything easier to understand. Even so, many owners are finding these changes radical. For years, taking your dog across the U.S. border was simple, regulated by border officials, and required few if any documents. But that is all about to change coming this August. Owners will have to complete a string of tasks before even considering travel. Vaccinations, vet visits, microchips – the list is hefty and mandatory. Many owners concluded that this new rule implies treating a dog as “chattel”, a thing you own, and not a friend and family member. But it’s not just the perception, but rather the unnecessary complications that come with it – you have to have a form filled out by a vet, to ensure that the microchip your pet has is compatible with the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). This brings up the question of whether the chips issued by vets are compatible with the ISO. So far, there is no explanation issued by the CDC to resolve this. The new rules also affect doggos that are younger than six months and thus cannot be vaccinated against rabies. Before, they could enter the U.S., but now this is no longer possible. Besides, the new rules and form requirements will be an additional expense for owners, who would already be burdened with the costs of travel.Needless to say, the regulations will also have major implications for breeders, show dog owners, rescue organizations, and others. “If you don’t follow CDC’s rules, your dog won’t be allowed to enter the United States,” warns the CDC. “If denied entry, your dog will be sent back to the last country of departure at your expense. Country of departure is where the last trip originated - not where the dog was born or where it lives.”

Pet Safety Reminders For the 4th of July

When preparing for a fun-packed Fourth of July, it’s essential to consider your pets. While fireworks, barbecues, and picnics provide endless fun to people, all the festivities can be frightening and potentially dangerous for cats and dogs.Whether or not you are gearing up for your own Fourth of July celebration, there are several things you can do to keep your pets safe during festivities. Here’s how to keep your pets safe this Fourth of July:1. Keep Your Fur Baby IndoorsPets and fireworks don’t mix, so it’s best to keep cats and dogs indoors during Independence Day celebrations. Dogs and cats are more sensitive to noise than people and are afraid of fireworks. Some pets can become so scared when fireworks start to go off that they may bolt. Keeping your pet indoors will ensure they remain safe and sound during the celebration. 2. Create a Quiet and Safe Space for Your PetConsider how the Fourth of July celebration can affect your pet. Dogs and cats are more sensitive to noise and will appreciate having a safe and quiet space to retreat to.The laundry room or a bathroom often don’t have windows and may serve as a less-noisy sanctuary for a scared pet. Throw in a cozy bed, some of your pet’s favorite toys, and a bowl of fresh water to help them relax.3. Update Your Pets Microchip and ID Tag Information Even if you do everything right, accidents can still happen. If despite your best efforts your pet happens to get loose and run away, make sure they can be easily identified and returned to their home. Have your pet wear a collar with up-to-date contact information to make their return home more likely.Microchipping your pet serves as an added method of identification. Unlike a collar with ID tags, a microchip can’t become lost and is your best bet for having your pet returned home safe and sound. 4. Keep Your Pets Away From AlcoholAlcohol is toxic to cats and dogs. Alcohol poisoning is common in pets and can happen from ingestion, inhalation, and skin absorption of alcohol or alcohol-containing products. Signs of alcohol poisoning include, staggering, excitement, lack of coordination, excess drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, lethargy, increased thirst and urination, difficulty breathing, low body temperature, coma, and seizures.  5. Keep Your Pet Away From CitronellaCitronella candles, torches, and sprays are commonly used in the summer as a mosquito repellant. However, none of these products are safe for pets to be around. Citronella plant is toxic to pets and can cause skin irritation, weakness, drooling, abdominal pain, and vomiting. If you’re planning on throwing a Fourth of July celebration in your backyard, keep your pets away from any citronella products, or better yet, opt for a pet-safe natural insect repellant. 6. Know the Signs of OverheatingPets don’t fare well in hot and humid weather, and being outside at high temperatures increases the risk of overheating. Ensure your pets have access to fresh cool water at all times, and provide plenty of shade to minimize the risk of overheating. Labored breathing, heavy panting, increased heart rate, and drooling are signs of overheating in pets. Brachycephalic breeds, like French bulldogs, pugs, and Boston terriers are at an increased risk of overheating, so extra care must be taken to keep these pups cool and protected from the scorching heat. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Why Does My Herding Dog Nip People?

Does your playful pup turn into a little velociraptor anytime they are around guests or even family members (especially children)? It’s a common struggle with herding dogs, but it doesn’t have to continue frustrating you for the rest of their lives! Herding dogs were bred with strong instincts to manage and control the movement of livestock. While that behavior is helpful when working in the fields, it can translate into unwanted nipping in everyday life. In this article, we’ll explain why herding dogs nip and, more importantly, how to train them to show their affection in a more acceptable way. What are the Personality Traits of a Herding Dog? Before focusing on this specific problem behavior, let’s take a step back and start at the beginning. What is a herding dog, and what personality traits are they most known for? Dogs classified in the Herding Group were bred specifically to gather, herd, and protect livestock. This means that they were bred with instincts that would help them perform their jobs safely and effectively. Some of the more common herding breeds include: Australian Cattle Dog Australian Shepherd Bearded Collie Belgian Malinois Border Collie Collie German Shepherd Dog Old English Sheepdog Pembroke Welsh Corgi Shetland SheepdogThese dogs are athletic and agile, allowing them to work with livestock on any terrain. They are also incredibly smart and can learn to follow even the most subtle hand movements. This means they are highly trainable but also have high exercise needs. Why Does My Herding Dog Nip People? Okay, these dogs are highly intelligent and full of energy – but how does that translate to nipping? If this is your first time living with a herding dog, you may be concerned that your dog has aggressive tendencies after seeing them nip at peoples’ ankles. You may be relieved to learn that this isn’t actually a sign of aggression. When your herding dog nips at someone’s feet or heels, they are tapping into their natural instincts. They are attempting to herd that person, just as they would with livestock in the field. Understanding this can help you view their behavior in a different light. The herding behavior is more likely to be triggered when someone mimics livestock in their eyes, running or playing around. Children are often on the receiving end for this reason, which can create a concerning situation.

Expert Shares Tips on How to Exercise Your Dog on Hot Summer Days

Summer is here, but hot weather shouldn’t be an excuse not to exercise your pooch. Walking and exercising your dog daily is great for their mental and physical health and helps create an everlasting bond between you and your canine companion.But, as temperatures rise, dog owners need to understand the risks of walking their dogs in hot weather and look for alternative ways to exercise their pets safely in the heat. A clinical professor at the Texas A&M School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Dr. Lori Teller, shared some tips on recognizing signs that it may be too hot to take your pooch for a walk and alternative ways to exercise them more safely during summer.When it comes to dogs and summer, the most important thing is to pay attention to your dog and recognize when it’s too hot to take them out for a walk.“When it’s hot outside, many dogs can be adversely impacted and suffer from heat exhaustion or heat stroke,” said Teller. “Dogs cannot sweat, and panting is not an effective mechanism for cooling off, so dogs don’t have efficient ways of handling excessive heat.”Although there isn’t a specific temperature that is too hot for all dogs, a good rule of thumb is to avoid walking and exercising dogs during the hottest times of the day. Walk and exercise your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when the temperature has dropped. Consider buying doggy booties to protect your pup’s paws from the scorching pavement.Teller advises, that in addition to being mindful of the time of the day they walk their dogs, owners should also be very careful with young puppies, senior dogs, as well as those with chronic medical conditions. Obese dogs, those suffering from heart and respiratory conditions, as well as flat-faced breeds, like pugs, bulldogs, and boxers, are more likely to suffer from heat stroke or heat exhaustion.Another thing to keep in mind is how adapted your dog is to the climate. For example, if your pooch is used to cooler climates and has recently moved to a warmer area, they are less likely to adjust and tolerate warmer temperatures. While hot summer months may prove difficult to keep a dog active, it’s important to stick with a regular exercise routine all year round to keep your dog healthy.Exercise is a great way for more active and working breeds, which can easily become restless, bored, and destructive, to burn off excess energy. It can also ease stress in anxious dogs. Regular exercise also promotes joint and heart health and helps with weight management.According to Teller, there are many alternatives to walking your dog during hot summer days. These activities can get you outside of the house without jeopardizing your dog’s health.“Dog owners can explore indoor areas such as places to participate in flyball, agility, or even doggy social events,” said Teller. “Swimming and dock diving is also a great activity for dogs that enjoy water.” If it seems too hot to take your dog outside, there are many ways you can exercise your pup at home. Use a long hallway to play a game of fetch with your pooch or create a dog-safe obstacle course. Some dogs will also like chasing a laser point, like those used to play with cats. Finding safe ways to keep your pup exercised during summer may seem challenging, but it’s worth it. Regular exercise will keep your furry friend physically and mentally stimulated without putting them at risk of heat exhaustion or heat stroke.  If at any point your dog shows signs of overheating, such as anxiety, restlessness, diarrhea, vomiting, excessive panting, drooling, unsteadiness while walking, and collapse, call your vet right away.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

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