How To Buy Dog Training Collars

With three major types of dog training collars to choose from, an owner should consider carefully all his options before buying a dog training collar. Each dog training collar has advantages and disadvantages. While most dogs will respond favorably to any of the dog training collars, overly aggressive or fearful dogs can react negatively to some collars. In these cases, a professional dog trainer should be consulted before making your purchase. There are three major types of dog training collars: choke, head, and prong.

Choke Collars The choke collar is also known as a slip collar or a choke chain. It is the most popular and widely used dog training collar. In order for it to be effective, however, it must be fitted correctly.

1. The ideally fitted choke collar should be able to slip comfortably over the head, but fit snuggly around the neck.

If it is too tight, it will be difficult to put on and take off. If it is too loose, it might accidentally slip off and it is more difficult to use.

To find the proper size, measure your dog’s neck with a string or tape measure and then add two to three inches.

Head Collars Head collars, or head halters, are also commonly known by the most popular brand names: Haltis and Gentle Leaders. It is important that they fit correctly as eye problems have resulted from poorly fitted head collars.

1. The nose bridge strap should fit snugly across the muzzle without being able to ride up close to the eyes.

The collar strap should be worn high up on the neck and be tight enough that only one finger is able to fit between the strap and the dog’s neck. This will keep the collar from shifting on the dog’s head.

It is advisable to take your dog with you to the store and try the collar on before purchasing it in order to assure the perfect fit.

Prong Collars Prong collars, also known as pinch collars, are generally misunderstood. Although they might look light a medieval torture device, the interlocking links of the collar are designed to pinch the skin around the neck when tightened. Many trainers believe this collar is actually gentler than the choke collar, but it should not be used on overly fearful or submissive dogs, nor should it be used on puppies.

1. Prong collars do not come in sizes; they come in weights. The larger the dog, the heavier the weight.

They are sized by either removing or adding links to the collar. The collar should sit right behind the ears and up under the jaw line. When fitted correctly, the collar will not be able to slide over the dog’s head.

Prong collars are designed to be put on and taken off by unhooking links and actually releasing the collar from around the neck. The prongs can be released by pinching the narrow curved end of the link.

Dog training can be a fun and enjoyable way to spend time with your dog. Finding the right dog training collar won’t make training simple, but it does make it easier.