Dog training collars come in a variety of styles to suit the many temperaments of dogs. Whether your dog is well-trained or not, whether he belongs to a feisty breed or a docile one, there is a collar to fit your needs. Learn about the differences between the types of collars before you bring your dog to the pet store.
Flat Dog Training Collars
Flat dog training collars are the most basic, widespread dog collar. These collars have a ring for attaching the leash and typically carry your dog's rabies vaccination tag, identification tag and city dog license. Flat dog training collars are fine for everyday training, indoor use or when you're in a fenced area with your non-aggressive dog.
Slip Dog Training Collars
Also known as choke chains, slip dog training collars are metal chains with a loose-sliding loop that adjusts to fit your dog's neck. This type of collar is useful if you're training a dog with traditional methods that require you to give a correction if your dog's behavior is inappropriate. With a slip collar, you give a quick, sharp tug on the leash and the collar tightens around your dog's neck. This gives your dog a quick correction so that he knows his behavior is undesirable.
Prong Dog Training Collars
Some owners use prong dog training collars on dogs with aggressive tendencies or dogs that constantly pull on a leash. Prong collars have metal prongs that poke into the dog's neck, so any pressure against the collar is physically uncomfortable for the dog. Prong dog training collars can be dangerous for your dog, and should only be used under close supervision by owners who are trained in the use of this type of dog training collar.
Harnesses
If your dog constantly pulls against a flat dog training collar, a gentler alternative is a harness. Harnesses go around the shoulders and have a ring on top for the leash. Harnesses are traditionally worn in addition to flat dog training collars, which hold the dog's identification and registration tags. Some dogs on a harness pull less than they would on a flat collar and never strain their neck.
Head Halter Dog Training Collars
Another alternative for dogs that pull on the leash is the head halter collar. These collars go over your dog's muzzle and behind the back of the head, with a ring under the chin for the leash. If your dog pulls on a head halter, his head will be pulled down and back toward you, making it impossible to drag you ahead.
Proper Fitting
You want a snug fit on your dog training collar to ensure that it won't slip off over your dog's head but without discomfort. A general rule of thumb is to fasten the collar loose enough to fit two fingers comfortably between the collar and your dog's neck. Alternately, you can measure around your dog's neck and add two inches, but if you use this method, check the fit to ensure that the collar won't slip off.
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So you approached crate training with patience and persistence and it is still not working for you and your dog. Crate training is not for everyone and is definitely not for every dog. This does not mean that you have a "bad dog" or that there is something wrong with your dog. |
Many issues arise when people start considering crate training there new puppy. Once the puppy is crate trained it allows for him or her to be left alone safely for hours at a time. Otherwise your new family member must accompany you every where you go until they are old enough to stay home by themselves and not get into harmful things or tear up your house. |
