The first collar is not about walks - it is about getting a small animal comfortable wearing equipment. Do this stage gently and every walk for the next decade gets easier.

Start indoors, start short

Put a light, soft collar on for a few minutes at a time, paired with play or food. Some scratching is normal for the first sessions. Take it off before the puppy fusses so removal never becomes the reward for complaining.

Pick featherweight gear

A wide heavy collar on a two-kilo puppy feels like a harness on you. Choose the lightest adjustable collar you can find, and remember the two-finger rule at this size means two of a child's fingers - keep it snug enough not to slip over the head.

The dragging-leash trick

Before you ever hold the leash, clip a light lead on and let the puppy drag it around the room under supervision. The puppy learns the sensation of slight tugs without anyone pulling. After a few sessions, pick up the end and just follow the puppy - then gradually invite it along with treats.

Re-check the fit weekly

Puppies can outgrow a collar setting in two weeks. Make the fit check part of your routine until growth settles around the first year.

Our adjustable collars and adjustable harnesses are built exactly for this growing stage, and the nylon range has the lightest options for tiny puppies.