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As far as the type of collar your dog should wear well, that's going to be up to you and your dog, really! When fitting a collar on your dog, make sure that you can fit at least two fingers in the space between collar and neck; any more and your dog may slip out, any less and your dog risks choking.
Buckle Collars
Just like the name implies, a buckle collar is a collar that fastens with a buckle. It works the same way your belt works.
Quick Release and Break-Away Collars
A variation on the buckle collar. A plastic side-squeeze buckle lets you get the collar on easily. This is the type of collar I use on my dogs, for the ease of getting it on and off. Break-Away collars are designed with a special release that will fly open if the collar is pulled strongly.
Slip Collars (also known as Chokers or Choke Chains)
A slip collar can be nylon, cotton, or leather -- not just chain link! Each end has an O shaped ring, and the collar loops through one of the rings. Traditional training methods suggest using a metal choke chain to correct a dog if it does not obey a command. Metal choke chains can cause neck, back, and throat injuries if used improperly. A heavier chain does not slide as smoothly as a smaller chain, and chokers should never be used on puppies.
Limited Slip Collars
This is an adjustable collar that will tighten around a dog's neck to keep him from slipping out of his collar -- but will not actually constrict the neck. Also called a "Greyhound Collar".
Martingale Collars
Often used on toy dogs in show situations, this is an adjustable collar without a buckle. A piece of plastic tubing slides along the lead to adjust the size.
Prong Collars (also called Pinch Collars)
These collars work on the same premise as the metal choke collars -- a yank to the neck corrects the dog's behavior. Prong collars are often used on dogs who pull on lead, and should never be used on puppies.
Head Halter
A good alternative for a dog who pulls on lead. These are not muzzles -- dogs can still eat, drink, bark, and bite while wearing a head halter. The advantage of a head halter is that your dog's motion is controlled by (gently) pulling their head where you want them to go -- instead of dragging at their neck.
Body Harness
Traditionally used on sled dogs, the harness helps a dog distribute weight while pulling. These may also be good for breeds with shorter respiratory systems, like Pugs or Pekinese, since there is no pressure on the neck.
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