Collar for an animal

Abstract

Collar (1) for an animal, in particular a dog collar, comprising - a central section (2) made of a flexible material, extending longitudinally along the collar (1) and having a widest point in the transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the collar (1); - a webbing (3a) which extends in a longitudinal direction and has an inner end and an outer end, wherein the inner end is connected to a transversely extending first side of the central section (2); - a fastening mechanism which is arranged both on the webbing (3a) and is connected to a second transverse side of the central section (2) opposite the first side, wherein the fastening mechanism is configured to connect the webbing (3a) and the second side of the central section (2) such that the collar (1) can enclose a first circumference and a second circumference, wherein the first circumference and the second circumference are different; and - a leash attachment device (4) for attaching a leash to the collar (1), wherein the central section (2) is considerably wider at its widest point in the transverse direction than, preferably at least three times as wide as, the webbing (3a) in its transverse direction.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a collar for an animal. background

[0002] Animal collars are used to attach a leash, allowing the owner to lead and control the animal. The leash limits the animal's range of movement to its own length and enables the owner to keep the animal away from certain people or objects. If the animal tries to move further away from the owner than the length of the leash, or if the owner pulls the animal back, force is exerted on the collar, causing it to press against the animal's neck. With conventional collars, depending on the force applied, there is a risk that the collar will cut into the animal's neck and cause injuries to sensitive areas such as the cervical spine, trachea, muscles, or larynx.

[0003] Dog scarves are already available that are wider than conventional collars, distributing the pressure exerted on the dog's neck by the animal or its owner, thus relieving strain. However, these dog scarves are not adjustable, which limits their versatility. Summary

[0004] The invention aims to provide a collar for an animal that offers increased wearing comfort while maintaining functionality. The goal is to provide a collar for an animal that offers a high level of comfort without compromising functionality.

[0005] A collar for an animal is provided according to independent claim 1. Embodiments are the subject of dependent subclaims.

[0006] According to one aspect of the invention, a collar for an animal, in particular a dog collar, is provided. The collar has a central section made of a flexible material, which extends longitudinally along the collar and has its widest point in the transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the collar. Furthermore, the collar has a webbing strap which extends longitudinally and has an inner end and an outer end, the inner end being connected to a transversely extending first side of the central section.Furthermore, the collar has a fastening mechanism that is arranged both on the webbing and connected to a second, transverse side of the central section opposite the first side. The fastening mechanism is configured to connect the webbing and the second side of the central section in such a way that the collar can enclose a first circumference and a second circumference, the first and second circumferences being different. The collar also has a leash attachment device for attaching a leash to the collar, the central section being considerably wider at its widest point in the transverse direction than, preferably at least three times as wide as, the webbing in its transverse direction.

[0007] The collar is designed specifically for pets such as cats, rabbits, or domestic pigs. It is primarily intended for use with dogs and is designed for this purpose. Alternatively, it can also be used with wild animals. The collar is not only suitable for attaching a leash to guide the animal, but can also be used to attach a chain, for example, to restrain wild animals.

[0008] For the purposes of this disclosure, the size of the collar refers to its dimensions in both the longitudinal and transverse directions. In other words, the size of the collar is defined by its length (longitudinal dimension) and its width (transverse dimension) of the webbing and the central section (especially its widest point). Depending on the size and build of the animal, collars of different sizes can be used. This means that not only longer but also wider collars can be used. The collar can therefore have different lengths and widths, making it suitable for different animal species and breeds, particularly different dog breeds.

[0009] In some embodiments, the widest point of the central section can extend over at least half the length of the central section. In alternative embodiments, the widest point can extend over a maximum of 10% of the central section.

[0010] In some embodiments, the width of the central section at its widest point in the transverse direction can be at least four times, and in particular five times, greater than the width of the webbing. The central section at its widest point in the transverse direction can be at most eight times wider than the webbing in the transverse direction.

[0011] According to the disclosure, the first side and the second side of the middle section each run along the transverse direction, with the second side being opposite the first side in the longitudinal direction and thus essentially parallel to the first side. Therefore, the first and second sides running in the transverse direction form transverse sides of the middle section.

[0012] As described in the disclosure, the fastening mechanism is located both at the outer end of the webbing and connected to the second side of the middle section. Furthermore, the fastening mechanism is designed to be divisible. When the collar is closed, the outer end of the webbing and the second side of the middle section are connected to each other via the fastening mechanism, and the collar encloses the first and / or second circumference. When the collar is open, the fastening mechanism is divided. A first part and a second part of the fastening mechanism are arranged separately on the collar. The first part of the fastening mechanism is attached to the webbing, and the second part of the fastening mechanism is connected separately to the second side of the middle section.

[0013] The collar, when closed, encloses a first circumference and / or a second circumference, the first and second circumferences being different. In the context of the disclosure, this means that the first and second circumferences have different dimensions, and the collar can therefore be used for animal necks of varying thicknesses.

[0014] Additionally, when the webbing and the second side are connected (collar closed), the collar can encircle a minimum of three and a maximum of five circumferences. Each circumference corresponds to the circumference the collar forms around the animal's neck when closed in a specific configuration. Therefore, regardless of the collar's size, the circumference can be further adjusted to fit the animal's neck, resulting in increased flexibility and usability.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the central section can be designed to taper longitudinally towards the two transverse sides, i.e. the first side and the second side, starting at the widest point.

[0016] According to the revelation, the midpoint of the middle section is defined as the middle point of a straight line running longitudinally, centered on each of the two transverse sides. The line passing through the midpoint of the middle section is understood to be a straight line running transversely.

[0017] In some embodiments, the widest point can run transversely along the central line. Alternatively or additionally, the central section can be designed to taper longitudinally from its central line towards the two transverse sides. In alternative embodiments, the tapers can begin outside the central line. Thus, the central section can have a constant width across a central subsection and taper from this subsection towards the transverse sides.

[0018] In one embodiment, the length of the central section (dimension of the central section in the longitudinal direction) is greater than the length of the webbing (dimension of the webbing in the longitudinal direction). In particular, it can be provided that the length of the central section corresponds to twice the length of the webbing.

[0019] The two transverse sides of the central section can each be shorter than the longitudinal dimension of the central section. In preferred embodiments, the two transverse sides are of equal length. It can be provided that the length of the central section is at least equal to the sum of the lengths of the two transverse sides.

[0020] According to another embodiment, the central section can be gathered at the two transverse sides. In some embodiments, the central section can have at least one longitudinal fold. In further embodiments, a longitudinal fold can form centrally at each of the two transverse sides, extending, for example, at most to the center point of the central section. In other embodiments, several folds can extend between the two transverse sides and / or several folds can extend from each of the two transverse sides, for example, at most to the center line of the central section.

[0021] In some embodiments, the flexible material may comprise fabric, leather, and / or neoprene. Depending on the embodiment, the fabric of the central section may comprise at least one of the following materials: cotton, linen, wool, silk, polyester, polyamide (nylon), viscose, modal, lyocell, acrylic, elastane (spandex), microfiber, fleece, softshell, stretched (expanded) polytetrafluoroethylene, mesh, ripstop, jersey, denim, satin, velvet, felt, canvas, imitation leather, and felt and canvas. In preferred embodiments, the fabric may, in particular, comprise at least one of the following materials: cotton, polyester fabric, optionally coated with a thermoplastic polyurethane layer and with leather, imitation leather, neoprene, nylon, plastic, polyester, and rope. For example, the fabric may consist of a cotton-polyester blend. The fabric may also be provided to have woven fibers.Alternatively or additionally, the fabric may contain knitted or woven fibers.

[0022] Depending on the embodiment, the leather of the central section can, where provided, comprise at least one of the following types of leather: smooth leather, patent leather, nappa leather, suede (such as velour and nubuck), buckskin, aniline leather, split leather, and synthetic leather. In a preferred embodiment, the leather is nappa leather.

[0023] The central section may have a padding insert. Depending on the design, the padding insert may consist of at least one of the following materials: foam, gel materials, cotton, wool, polyester, viscose, coconut fibers, felt, microfiber, silicone, and cork. In one design, the padding insert is made of polychloroprene. The choice of material depends on the desired properties, such as cushioning effect, comfort, breathability, and the specific application.

[0024] Furthermore, the center section can be sewn to a padding insert. In this case, the padding insert is sewn to the center section, offering the advantage of a load-bearing connection. Alternatively, the padding insert can be attached to the center section using snap fasteners or hook-and-loop fasteners. This offers the advantage that the padding insert can be removed without additional tools and / or without damaging the padding insert and / or the center section. For example, a padding insert can thus be easily replaced. In particular, it can be designed so that the padding insert can be changed if it becomes soiled and / or if it is to be replaced with a padding insert made of a different material.

[0025] According to the revelation, the inside of the middle section is understood to be the side that, when the collar is worn, lies against the animal's neck. The outside of the middle section is the side that, when worn, faces away from the animal's neck. The same applies to the inside and outside of the webbing: the inside is the side facing the animal when worn, while the outside is the side facing away from the animal.

[0026] In some embodiments, the central section may consist of only one layer of the flexible material. In other embodiments, the central section has at least two layers of the flexible material.

[0027] In other embodiments, the central section can be designed as a cover for the padding insert, with the padding insert located within the cover (in the central section). The padding insert can be sewn to the central section within the cover. Alternatively, the padding insert can be arranged on the inside of the central section.

[0028] If the middle section consists of only one layer of the flexible material, the padding insert may be sewn to the inside. Alternatively, the padding insert can also be attached to the inside using Velcro or buttons.

[0029] If the middle section consists of at least two layers of the flexible material, the padding insert can be sewn either to the inside of the middle section or to the middle section itself. If the seams go through the middle section, they can extend to the outside. If, however, the padding insert is only sewn to the inside, the seams are not visible from the outside. Alternatively, the padding insert can also be attached to the inside using hook-and-loop fasteners or buttons in this case.

[0030] In other embodiments, an additional padding insert may be provided, which, depending on the design, is attached either in the central section (sleeve) or to the inside of the central section. The arrangement of the additional padding insert depends on the position of the padding insert. If the padding insert is located in the central section, the additional padding insert is located on the inside of the central section. The additional padding insert may also be sewn to the central section, either in the central section or on its inside. In particular, if the additional padding insert is located on the inside, it may alternatively be attached to the inside or the central section using hook-and-loop fasteners or buttons.

[0031] Alternatively or additionally, padding may be provided on the inside of the webbing. The padding may be sewn to the webbing. Alternatively, the padding may be attached to the webbing using hook-and-loop fasteners or buttons.

[0032] In some embodiments, the first side of the central section can be connected to the inner end of the webbing via a connecting ring. Depending on the embodiment, the connecting ring can be, for example, a square ring, a round ring, or a D-ring. The connecting ring can be made of metal and / or plastic. If the connecting ring is made of metal, steel or stainless steel is preferably used.

[0033] According to further embodiments, a connecting element can adjoin the first side of the central section, wherein the connecting element is attached to the connecting ring and the inner end of the webbing is attached to the connecting ring. In particular, the connecting element can be sewn to the central section. Additionally, in some embodiments, the connecting element can be designed as a loop, the loop extending around a side of the connecting ring facing the central section. Furthermore, the loop can consist of two parts that are joined together by hook-and-loop fastener or a button(s) to form the loop. The loop with hook-and-loop fastener or button(s), formed from two parts, offers the advantage that the loop can be opened without tools and / or without damaging the loop.In some embodiments, the connecting element can be made of the same material as the central section. In alternative embodiments, the central section and the connecting element can be made of different materials.

[0034] In other embodiments, the first side of the central section can be attached directly to the connecting ring without a connecting element. In particular, the first side is then designed as a loop, so that the side of the connecting ring facing the central section extends through the loop, thus attaching the central section to the connecting ring. The loop can be sewn onto the first side of the central section. Alternatively, the central section can also include loops that can be opened (as already described above for the connecting element) and are formed by means of hook-and-loop fasteners or buttons on the first side of the central section.

[0035] The inner end of the webbing may have a reinforcement. In some embodiments, the reinforcement has a section at the inner end of the webbing that is wider than the webbing itself. This section at the inner end can be attached directly (without a connecting ring or fastener) to the outer side of the central section. The reinforcement can either be sewn to the outer side or detachably (without tools and / or without damage) attached, at least partially, to the central section using hook-and-loop fasteners or buttons. The section at the inner end can extend longitudinally from the first side to at most the midpoint of the central section.

[0036] In further embodiments, it can alternatively be provided that the reinforcement at the inner end of the webbing has an inner section and an outer section, wherein the inner section is arranged on the inside of the central section and the outer section on the outside of the central section. In particular, the inner section and the outer section can be sewn to the inside and outside of the central section, respectively.

[0037] The inner end of the webbing can be directly attached to the central section in the longitudinal direction. In the context of the disclosure, this means that the webbing is not connected to the central section via the connecting ring and / or the connecting element, but rather sewn to the central section or attached to the central section by means of hook and loop fasteners or snap fasteners.

[0038] In some embodiments, the inner end of the webbing can be arranged on the first side of the central section. In particular, the inner end can be sewn to the first side. Alternatively, the webbing can extend longitudinally from the first side along the outside of the central section to at most the center line, with the webbing being attached to the outside of the central section. The webbing can either be sewn to the outside or detachably attached to the outside by means of hook-and-loop fasteners or buttons. In some embodiments, the webbing can also be attached to the inside. However, embodiments in which the webbing is attached to the first side or to the outside of the central section are considered preferred, since this eliminates any disruptive seams on the inside of the central section.

[0039] In one embodiment, the webbing may be made of a flexible material, preferably fabric, leather, and / or neoprene. The fabric of the webbing may comprise at least one of the following: cotton, linen, wool, silk, polyester, polyamide (nylon), viscose, modal, lyocell, acrylic, elastane (spandex), microfiber, fleece, softshell, stretched (expanded) polytetrafluoroethylene, mesh, ripstop, jersey, denim, satin, velvet, felt, canvas, imitation leather, and felt and canvas. In preferred embodiments, the fabric may, in particular, comprise at least one of the following materials: cotton, polyester fabric, optionally coated with a thermoplastic polyurethane layer and with leather, imitation leather, neoprene, nylon, plastic, polyester, and rope.In a leather version, depending on the design, the leather can be one of the following types: smooth leather, patent leather, nappa leather, suede (such as velour leather and nubuck leather), aniline leather, split leather and imitation leather.

[0040] While the middle section is made of a particularly flexible material that adapts to the animal's neck and offers a high level of comfort, the webbing is preferably made of a flexible yet particularly strong material, as it is subjected to high tensile forces and serves to fasten the collar. Therefore, the webbing can preferably be made of a strong textile fabric such as cotton, synthetic fiber, or a blended fabric.

[0041] In preferred embodiments, the central section can therefore be made of a different material than the webbing. This offers the advantage that a particularly flexible and supple material can be selected for the central section, while the webbing can be made of a rigid textile fabric. Alternatively, the central section and the webbing can be made of the same material or materials. Preferably, the central section is made of cotton, polyester, linen, or blends thereof, while the webbing is made of leather, nylon, polyester, cotton, or blends thereof. For example, the central section and webbing are sewn together. Alternatively or additionally, the central section and webbing can be riveted or glued together.

[0042] In some embodiments, the width of the webbing can be constant. In other embodiments, the webbing can have a varying width.

[0043] In some embodiments, the webbing may consist of only one layer of the flexible material. In alternative embodiments, the webbing may consist of two layers. In alternative embodiments, three or more layers may also be provided.

[0044] In some embodiments, the closure mechanism may comprise an insert and two receptacles, the insert being located at the outer end of the webbing and the two receptacles being connected to the other side of the central section. In alternative embodiments, the insert may be connected to the other side of the central section, and the two receptacles are located on the webbing. The insert may be made of metal, particularly steel or stainless steel. Preferably, the two receptacles may also be made of metal, particularly steel or stainless steel. Alternatively, the insert may be made of plastic. In some embodiments, the two receptacles may be made of plastic. At least three receptacles may be provided, so that the collar is adjustable for three different-sized animal necks. In no embodiment does the collar comprise more than six receptacles.

[0045] It may be provided that a further connecting element adjoins the second side of the central section, to which at least one of the two attachments is fastened. In particular, it may be provided that the insert is a carabiner or a hook, and that the two attachments have a first and a second locking ring. The first locking ring can be fastened to the second side of the central section or to the further connecting element, and the second locking ring engages with the first ring. The carabiner or hook is designed to engage with the first or second locking ring, thereby closing the collar. Depending on whether the carabiner or hook engages with the first or second locking ring, the collar encircles the first or second circumference.

[0046] In some embodiments, the fastening mechanism can comprise a snap fastener top and two snap fastener bottoms. The snap fastener top can have a socket and be arranged on the webbing. The two snap fastener bottoms can each have a plug part that is arranged on the central section, preferably on the outside of the central section, or on the further connecting element. The two plug parts of the snap fastener bottoms are configured to engage in the socket of the snap fastener top and close the collar such that, depending on which of the two plug parts engages in the socket, the collar encloses either the first circumference or the second circumference.

[0047] In further embodiments, the fastening mechanism can include a hook-and-loop fastener, wherein the hook-and-loop fastener comprises a hook-and-loop strip with barbs (adherent part) and a hook-and-loop strip with loops (loop part). The hook-and-loop part can be arranged on the webbing and the loop part on the central section, preferably on the outside of the central section and / or on the additional connecting element. Alternatively, the loop part can be arranged on the webbing and the hook-and-loop part on the central section, preferably on the outside of the central section and / or on the additional connecting element. The hook-and-loop part and the adhesive part can be connected to each other in such a way that they enclose at least the first circumference and the second circumference. Preferably, the hook-and-loop part and the adhesive part can be connected to each other in such a way that they enclose a plurality of circumferences without any step.

[0048] The collar can have a further webbing strap extending longitudinally and having a further inner end and a further outer end, wherein the further inner end is connected to the second side of the central section, and wherein the fastening mechanism is arranged both on the webbing strap and connected to the second side of the central section via the further webbing strap. The embodiments described above in connection with the webbing strap can apply analogously to the further webbing strap, in particular with regard to the material of the further webbing strap and its connection to the central section.

[0049] Preferably, the webbing and the additional webbing have the same shape. In particular, the webbing and the additional webbing can be the same length. Alternatively, the webbing and the additional webbing can have different shapes and / or different lengths.

[0050] In embodiments where the insert is the carabiner or hook, and the two receptacles have the first and second locking rings, the first locking ring can be attached to the outer end of the webbing, and the second locking ring can engage with the first locking ring. The carabiner or hook is designed to engage with either the first or the second locking ring, thereby closing the collar. Depending on whether the carabiner or hook engages with the first or second locking ring, the collar encircles the first or second circumference.

[0051] In embodiments where the fastening mechanism comprises the snap fastener top and the two snap fastener bottoms, the snap fastener top with its socket can be arranged on the webbing. The two snap fastener bottoms, each with a plug part, can be arranged on the remaining webbing. The two plug parts of the snap fastener bottoms are designed to engage in the socket of the snap fastener top and close the collar such that, depending on which of the two plug parts engages the socket, the collar encloses either the first or the second circumference.

[0052] In embodiments where the fastening mechanism comprises a hook-and-loop fastener with an adhesive part and a loop part, the adhesive part can be arranged on the webbing and the loop part on the other webbing. Alternatively, the loop part can be arranged on the webbing and the adhesive part on the other webbing. The adhesive part and loop part can be connected to each other in such a way that they enclose at least the first circumference and the second circumference. Preferably, the adhesive part and loop part can be connected to each other in a continuously variable manner so that they enclose a plurality of circumferences.

[0053] In some embodiments, the webbing and the additional webbing may be arranged longitudinally on the outside of the central section in such a way that they meet at the center line and form a continuous webbing. In this case, the webbing and the additional webbing form sections of the continuous webbing. Alternatively, the webbing may have a reinforcement and the additional webbing has a further reinforcement, such that the reinforcement of the webbing and the further reinforcement of the additional webbing meet at the center line and form a continuous webbing with reinforcement.

[0054] The fastening mechanism may include a prong buckle, the prong buckle comprising a shackle, a prong, and two holes, the shackle and prong being located at the outer end of the webbing and the two holes being located in the further webbing. According to the disclosure, the two holes are located in the further webbing. In some embodiments, a plurality of holes (at least three holes) may be located in the further webbing. Preferably, the plurality of holes may be internally reinforced with metal or plastic.

[0055] In some embodiments, the webbing may have a guide loop and the further webbing may be arranged in the guide loop when the webbing and the further webbing are connected to each other.

[0056] In further embodiments, the tethering device can be arranged on the webbing. Alternatively, the tethering device can be arranged on the other part of the webbing, or the connecting ring can serve as the tethering device.

[0057] The leash attachment device may have a ring, preferably a D-ring, for attaching the leash to the collar.

[0058] In some embodiments, the ring can be threaded onto the webbing, being slidable along the webbing. In other embodiments, the webbing can have two layers, and the ring is sewn between the two layers. Depending on the embodiment, the D-ring can be made of metal and / or plastic. If the ring is made of metal, steel or stainless steel is used. In alternative embodiments, the tethering device can have a square ring or a round ring.

[0059] The present invention provides a collar which, due to the flexible nature of the material used and the wide design of the central section, allows for a broad distribution of the pulling forces generated when the collar is pulled – whether by the animal itself or by the handler. This prevents pressure points and relieves and protects sensitive areas of the animal's body, such as the cervical spine, trachea, muscles, or larynx. Furthermore, the flexibility of the material in the central section ensures a comfortable fit and allows the collar to adapt optimally to the shape of the animal's neck. The webbing (or the webbing and the additional webbing) in conjunction with the closure mechanism also allows for precise size adjustment and secure fastening of the collar to the animal's neck. Description of exemplary implementations

[0060] Further examples of implementation are explained in more detail below with reference to figures in a drawing. These show: Fig. 1. A schematic representation of a fabric collar for a dog; and Fig. 2 A schematic representation of a leather collar for a dog.

[0061] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a fabric dog collar. The collar is shown in a top view with the outside facing upwards. The outside is the side of the collar that faces away from the dog's neck when worn. The inside, on the other hand, is the side that faces the dog's neck when the collar is worn. The length of the collar is defined as its largest dimension. The collar extends lengthwise. The width of the collar is defined by its width in the transverse direction, which is perpendicular to the lengthwise direction.

[0062] The collar 1 has a central section 2. The central section 2 has two outwardly curved longitudinal sides extending along its length. If the longitudinal sides were not curved outwards, they would have only a single (constant) dimension in the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, the central section 2 has a first transverse side and a second transverse side extending along its length, each connecting an outer point of one of the two longitudinal sides to the opposite outer point of the other of the two longitudinal sides. In other words, the central section 2 has the shape of a rectangle whose first and second transverse sides are combined, causing the two longitudinal sides to curve outwards. The two longitudinal sides are each longer than either the first or the second transverse side. Additionally, the central section 2 has a widest point.The widest point extends longitudinally from a central line through the center of the central section 2 to the right and left of the central line and comprises less than one third of the central section 2. In alternative embodiments, however, the widest point can extend longitudinally over more than half of the central section 2.

[0063] The middle section 2 consists of a woven fabric. The fabric comprises woven fibers of cotton and / or polyester.

[0064] Since the central section 2 is joined at the first and second transverse sides, folds form in central section 2. These folds extend from the first and second transverse sides in the direction of the central line. The folds can take on different forms. They can run continuously from the first to the second transverse side, end at the central line, or extend beyond it. In alternative configurations, the first and second transverse sides may be folded in such a way that predominantly continuous folds are formed.

[0065] A connecting element 6a adjoins the first transverse side of the central section 2, and a further connecting element 6b adjoins the second transverse side of the central section 2. The connecting element 6a is designed as a loop, and the further connecting element 6b is also designed as a loop.

[0066] Furthermore, the collar 1 has a webbing 3a and another webbing 3b extending longitudinally. The webbing 3a has an inner end and an outer end, and the other webbing 3b has a further inner end and a further outer end. The inner end of the first webbing 3a is attached to the connecting element 6a via a connecting ring 5a. The further inner end of the other webbing 3b is attached to the further connecting element 6b via a further connecting ring 5b. The connecting ring 5a and the further connecting ring 5b are each designed as square rings. The side of the connecting ring 5a facing the central section 2 runs at least partially through the first loop of the connecting element 6a, and the side of the further connecting ring 5b facing the central section 2 runs at least partially through the further loop of the further connecting element 6b.

[0067] In alternative embodiments, the webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b can be attached directly to the outside of the central section 2. For this purpose, inner sections of the webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b project beyond the first transverse side and the second transverse side, respectively, onto the outside of the central section 2 and extend along the longitudinal direction at most to the center line, preferably to a transverse line located midway between the center line and the first transverse side and the second transverse side, respectively. The webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b can be sewn to the outside of the central section 2 or detachably (separable without tools and / or without damage) connected to the central section 2 by means of a hook-and-loop fastener or a button.

[0068] The webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b have the same shape and are identical in length and width. Furthermore, the central section 2 is at least three times as wide at its widest point as both the webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b. In other words, the largest dimension of the central section 2 in the transverse direction is at least three times as large as the transverse dimension of both the first webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b. Alternatively, it can be provided that the central section 2 is twice as wide at its widest point as both the first webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b.

[0069] The webbing 3a and the further webbing 3b are each shorter than the central section 2. In other words, the longitudinal dimension of the first webbing 3a and the further webbing 3b is each smaller than the longitudinal dimension of the central section 2. In particular, the central section 2 can be longer than the sum of the lengths of the first webbing 3a and the further webbing 3b.

[0070] Furthermore, the collar 1 has a leash attachment device 4 for attaching a leash. The leash attachment device 4 is arranged on the webbing 3a and has a D-ring. The webbing 3a runs through the D-ring, and the D-ring is slidable along the webbing 3a. In alternative embodiments, the D-ring can be arranged on the additional webbing 3b. In particular, it can be provided that the webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b each have two layers, and the D-ring is sewn between the two layers of the first webbing 3a or the two layers of the additional webbing 3b and is thus held in position.

[0071] The collar 1 also features a fastening mechanism in the form of a prong buckle. The prong buckle comprises a loop 7, a prong 8, and three holes 9. The loop 7 and the prong 8 are located at the outer end of the first webbing 3a, and the three holes 9 are located on the second webbing 3b. To close the collar 1, the second webbing 3b is threaded through the loop 7 from the inside, then the prong 8 is inserted into one of the three holes 9, and finally, the second webbing 3b is attached to the outside of the first webbing 3a. The circumference of the collar 1 can be adjusted via the three holes 9. Due to the adjustable circumference, the collar 1 can be used for animals of different sizes and strengths.

[0072] In alternative designs, the closure mechanism can include Velcro, at least two snap fasteners, a carabiner with at least two rings into which the carabiner engages, and / or at least two hooks with at least two eyelets into which at least two hooks engage.

[0073] Furthermore, the collar 1 has a guide loop 10, which is arranged on the webbing 3a. The guide loop 10 is made of the same material as the webbing 3a. The webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b are also made of the same material. The webbing 3a runs through the guide loop 10, allowing the guide loop 10 to move along the first webbing 3a. In alternative embodiments, the webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b may each have two layers, and the guide loop 10 may be sewn between the two layers of the webbing 3a or the additional webbing 3b. The guide loop 10 is designed to receive the additional webbing 3b when the collar 1 is closed and to fix it to the outside of the first webbing 3a. Additionally, the second strap 3b can be inserted through the tethering device 4 for fixation.

[0074] In Fig. Figure 2 shows a further embodiment of a leather collar 1 for a dog, schematically illustrated. The collar is as shown in Figure 2. Fig. Figure 1 shows a top view with the outer side facing upwards. The central section 2, as well as the webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b, are now made of leather. Alternatively, the central section 2, as well as the webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b, can be made of neoprene. In other embodiments, the central section 2, as well as the webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b, can be made of different materials, with the webbing 3a and the additional webbing 3b preferably being made of the same material(s).

[0075] The central section 2 is joined at the first transverse side and the second transverse side, forming two folds, each originating from the first transverse side or the second transverse side and extending along the longitudinal direction at most to the center line.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment of the leather collar, the connecting element 6a and the further connecting element 6b are omitted. Furthermore, the webbing 3a and the further webbing 3b each have a reinforcement 11a and a further reinforcement 11b, respectively. The reinforcement 11a is located at the inner end of the webbing 3a and has an outer section that is wider than the webbing 3a. The further reinforcement 11b is located at the further inner end of the further webbing 3b and has a further outer section that is wider than the further webbing 3b.

[0077] The reinforcement 11a of the webbing 3a and the further reinforcement 11b of the further webbing 3b are attached directly to the outside of the central section 2. For this purpose, the inner section of the webbing 3a and the further inner section of the further webbing 3b each project beyond the first transverse side and the second transverse side, respectively, onto the outside of the central section 2 and extend along the longitudinal direction at most to the center line, preferably to a transverse line located midway between the center line and the first transverse side and the second transverse side, respectively. The reinforcement 11a and the further reinforcement 11b can be sewn to the outside of the central section 2 or detachably (separable without tools and / or without damage) connected to the central section 2 by means of a hook-and-loop fastener or button.

[0078] In alternative embodiments, it may also be provided that the reinforcement 11a and the further reinforcement 11b each consist of two layers, wherein the outwardly facing layers are attached to the outside of the central section 2 and the inner layers are attached to the inside of the central section 2. In particular, it may be provided that the two layers are sewn together with the central section 2.

[0079] Furthermore, the present embodiment of the collar 1 also features the leash device 4 for attaching a leash, as well as the closure mechanism as a buckle with shackle 7, prong 8 and three holes 9 and the guide loop 10.

[0080] The features disclosed in the foregoing description, the claims and the drawing can be important for the realization of the various embodiments, both individually and in any combination. Reference symbol list 1 collar 2 Middle section 3a Webbing 3b Additional webbing 4 Leash device 5a Connecting ring 5b Additional connecting ring 6a Connecting element 6b Further connecting element 7 hangers 8 Dorn 9 holes 10 guide loops 11a Reinforcement 11b Further reinforcement

Claims

[1] Collar (1) for an animal, in particular a dog collar, comprising - a central section (2) made of a flexible material, extending longitudinally along the collar (1) and having a widest point in the transverse direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the collar (1); - a webbing (3a) which extends in a longitudinal direction and has an inner end and an outer end, wherein the inner end is connected to a transversely extending first side of the central section (2); - a fastening mechanism which is arranged both on the webbing (3a) and is connected to a second transverse side of the central section (2) opposite the first side, wherein the fastening mechanism is configured to connect the webbing (3a) and the second side of the central section (2) such that the collar (1) can enclose a first circumference and a second circumference, wherein the first circumference and the second circumference are different; and - a leash attachment device (4) for attaching a leash to the collar (1), wherein the central section (2) is considerably wider at its widest point in the transverse direction than, preferably at least three times as wide as, the webbing (3a) in its transverse direction. [2] Collar (1) according to claim 1, wherein the central section (2) tapers from the widest point in the longitudinal direction towards the transverse sides. [3] Collar (1) according to claim 2, wherein the central section (2) is gathered at the transverse sides. [4] Collar (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the flexible material comprises fabric, leather and / or neoprene. [5] Collar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the middle section (2) has a padding insert. [6] Collar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first side of the central section (2) is connected to the inner end of the webbing (3a) via a connecting ring (5a). [7] Collar (1) according to claim 6, wherein a connecting element (6a) adjoins the first side of the central section (2), wherein the connecting element (6a) is attached to the connecting ring (5a) and the inner end of the webbing (3a) is attached to the connecting ring (5a). [8] Collar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner end of the webbing (3a) has a reinforcement (11a). [9] Collar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the inner end of the webbing (3a) is directly attached to the central section (2) in the longitudinal direction. [10] Collar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the webbing (3a) is made of a flexible material, preferably fabric, leather and / or neoprene. [11] Collar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the closure mechanism has an insert and two receptacles, wherein the insert is arranged at the outer end of the webbing (3a) and the two receptacles are connected to the second side of the central section (2). [12] Collar (1) according to claim 11, wherein a further connecting element (6b) adjoins the second side of the central section (2), to which at least one of the two receptacles is attached. [13] Collar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the collar (1) has a further webbing (3b) which extends in the longitudinal direction and has a further inner end and a further outer end, wherein the further inner end is connected to the second side of the central section (2), and wherein the closure mechanism is arranged both on the webbing (3a) and is connected to the second side of the central section (2) via the further webbing (3b). [14] Collar (1) according to claim 13, wherein the closure mechanism has a prong buckle, wherein the prong buckle has a loop (7), a prong (8) and at least two holes (9), wherein the loop (7) and the prong (8) are arranged at the outer end of the webbing (3a) and the at least two holes (9) are arranged on the further webbing (3b). [15] Collar (1) according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the webbing (3a) has a guide loop (10) and the further webbing (3b) can be arranged in the guide loop (10) when the webbing (3a) and the further webbing (3b) are connected to each other. [16] Collar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the leash device (4) is arranged on the webbing (3a). [17] Collar (1) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the leash device (4) has a ring, preferably a D-ring, for attaching the leash to the collar (1).

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