Did you know that the origin of your four-legged friend’s collar dates back to ancient Egypt? No ? Admittedly, it’s not the first thing you think of when you buy a collar.
Yet behind the use of dog collars lies a history that began centuries ago.
Before we delve into the fascinating evolution of this accessory, let’s briefly summarize the main functions of a dog collar.
- It’s useful for securing your dog’s leash during walks, to prevent him from running away;
- It’s essential if you want to add a tag bearing your contact details;
- It’s essential if you want to attach a GPS for your dog (e.g. the Kippy DOG).
So those are the three main reasons why a collar is right for your dog. But there’s also the aesthetic function, which is very important to some owners.
In the following paragraphs, we’ll delve into the history of this object.
From ancient origins to the first modern collars
As mentioned in the introduction to this article, the origins of necklaces date back to Egyptian times. We’ll now look at the evolution of the dog collar, describing its use through the ages.
The first depictions of the collar date back to the Shuwaymis rock engravings in north-eastern Saudi Arabia, where dogs are shown on leashes alongside hunters.
Thereafter, the various uses followed one another:
- Mesopotamia: the ancient Sumerians used ropes tied around dogs’ necks to subdue them. Later, ropes were replaced by cloth or leather collars. Dogs were often associated with the divinities Gula, goddess of healing, and Inna/Ishatar, goddess of love and war;
- Ancient Egypt: even then, dogs were considered members of the family and were often buried alongside their master. At the time, collars were made of precious materials and decorated with inscriptions indicating the name of the dog and its owner;
- Ancient Greece and Rome: collars had a dual function: hunting and protection. It is even said that some Roman collars were fitted with metal spikes to protect the dog from wolf attacks;
- Middle Ages: hunting dogs wore collars reinforced with metal, as opposed to the more decorative collars often adorned with jewels.
Then, in more modern times, collars took on a dual function: utilitarian and aesthetic. Today, collars are sometimes replaced by dog harnesses. An interesting alternative if your four-legged companion is large and needs more support during his walks.
In other words, from ancient Egypt to the present day, collar evolutions have been purely functional and aesthetic. But as we’ll see in the following paragraphs, the dog collar is much more than a simple accessory.
The era of functional collars: safety and control
As well as being useful for outings, a collar can also be useful for recognizing your pet in the dark, or even among other dogs.
Take, for example, when you take your dog to the park and he’s playing with other dogs. If it’s dark and your pet wanders off or starts jumping around with his canine pals, it’s not so sure you’ll recognize him at first glance!
The collar has a simple function : to make your pet more visible. Depending on the material you choose (leather, rope, fabric, single- or multi-colored), you’ll be able to spot him at a glance, even from a distance. What’s more, if it’s equipped with GPS, it’ll be even more useful!
On this point, we’ll explain in the next paragraph how this simple object has evolved into a highly technological tool.
Where do dog collars come from?
The technological revolution: the advent of GPS collars
If you follow the world of pets on social networks, you’ve probably heard of GPS collars. On closer inspection, they’re actually collars equipped with a GPS tracker that lets you follow your dog’s activities at all times, no matter how close you are to the animal.
The KippyDOG is a GPS tracker and activity monitor for dogs that can definitely revolutionize your life and that of your dog. Thanks to its precise tracking and unlimited distance, you can let your dog run free without the constant worry of not knowing where he is. What’s more, you’ll also be able to monitor your dog’s state of health, since sleep, diet and physical activity are all parameters monitored by the device.
Kippy DOG: the future of smart dog collars
Do you have a dog? Or would you like to give a nice gift to a dog owner? Kippy DOG is the perfect way to spend light, enjoyable moments with your pet.
Let’s take a look at the main features of Kippy DOG:
- Activity tracking – monitor your dog’s steps, sleep and motor activity;
- Location – track your dog at all times;
- Virtual fence – set virtual boundaries beyond which you are immediately alerted if your dog strays;
- Wide coverage – allows you to activate Kippy and use it all over Europe.
Interested in this product? Check out all the available subscriptions for Kippy DOG and choose the one that’s right for you.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the best dog collar?
The best dog collar depends on the dog’s physical characteristics and its ability (or not) to walk with you without pulling. A harness is sometimes more appropriate, especially for dogs who pull a lot on the leash and run the risk of damaging their neck (tracheal pressure).
How does a GPS collar work?
A GPS collar locates your dog’s position even if he’s not close to you. It has the same functions as a cell phone and sends you the exact position of your furry companion.
How does the soothing dog collar work?
It’s a type of collar that permanently diffuses soothing pheromones designed to calm your dog in moments of agitation. The effect can last up to 4 weeks.