A Dog Obedience Training Collar To Control Behavior
The basic dog obedience training collar goes by many names, including the choke collar, the choke chain, the training collar, the correction collar and the slip collar.
These are among the most popular and most commonly used tools by both amateur and professional dog trainers.
While a training collar is a popular tool, as with any tool it must be used properly in order to be effective and safe for your dog.
Among the most important considerations when using this training apparatus, consider these:
1. The Proper Fit
Determining if the training collar is the right size is relatively easy. Ideally, it should fit snugly, yet comfortably over your dog’s head. Like my father used to say about tightening a bolt, it shouldn't be too tight, but it shouldn't be too loose either.
A collar that's too tight will be difficult to get on and off. On the other hand, if it's too loose it can potentially slip off when your dog lowers his head.
2. Sizing And Measuring Your Dog
Measure your dog’s neck with a tape measure, then add 2 to 3 inches. For example, if your dog has a neck 12" in diameter, you'll want to buy a training collar that's 14" in length.
Chain slip collars are generally sized in two inch increments. Also keep in mind that the weight of the chain and the size of the links should be appropriate for the size and weight of your dog.
3. Placement
When fitting the collar, the part of the chain that connects to the leash should always be on the top of your dog’s neck (as opposed to the side of the neck or under the neck).
With this arrangement, the tension around your dog's neck relaxes instantly whenver the leash becomes slack.
The effectiveness of a training collar depends on how quickly the slack is taken up and released again. Tightening the collar is the first part of the correction, relaxing it is the second part.
When it's not properly attached to the leash, on the top of your dog's neck, it can still take up the slack, however it won't be able to release the slack. The result is continual pressure on your dog’s neck, which will tend to encourage a counter response on his part. He'll begin to pull and fight against the leash.
4. The Quality
Finally, it's well worth your time and money to purchase a training collar that's high quality and sturdy. It will serve your training process and the safety of dog in countless ways. There are times to cut corners, especially when your budget is tight, but this isn't one of them.
Oh, and by the way, a quick note here. If the worst happens, and your dog’s collar breaks, don't panic. Most dogs will be unaware when this happens, at least for a few long seconds. Generally, if you act as if the leash is still connected, you should be able to quickly regain control.
How? The best strategy is to make a quick slip lead by running the snap on the leash through its handle and then slipping it over the dog’s head. It may not be the best arrangement, but it will certainly do in a pinch.
Remember: a training collar is designed to be used as a sharp reminder, as a way of maintaining your dog's attention. It's not designed to be a punishment.
Nor is it designed to apply constant pressure to your dog's neck. Make sure it fits properly, it's the right size, and it connects properly to the leash.
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