Dog Training Collars

When choosing a collar for your pet, consider that you may want to purchase one or more dog training collars in addition to a normal collar for everyday use. A standard dog collar is usually made of nylon or leather, and is helpful as an identifying element for your dog. These collars are not always best for walking or training your dog, however. Selecting the appropriate training collar for your pet depends on his size, age, training level and behavior. Learn about the different types of dog training collars so that you can make the best decision for you and your dog.

Before purchasing a collar, measure your pet's neck, allowing for about 2 extra inches for the buckle of the collar itself. In most cases, it is easiest if you take your pet with you to the store while you purchase the collar. Many pet stores will allow you to bring your dog with you for this reason.

Choke Collars

Choke collars function by pinching off on your dog's skin when you pull on them. This serves as a useful training method because it helps to discourage negative behaviors. Choke collars can be dangerous, however, and it is important to know how to place the collar on your dog and when to remove it. Never place a choke collar that is too tight on your dog's neck, as this can strangle him. Properly set up, choke collars should release when pulled hard enough. Do not leave a choke collar on your dog while he is alone or outside, as the collar may become caught on fences, furniture or other items.

Choke collars are designed for use with larger breeds of dog, and may not be available in appropriate sizes for smaller dogs.

Electronic Collars

Electronic collars are better suited for smaller breeds of dog. They come equipped with a mild shock system, which you can use to alert the dog of problem behaviors. The shock itself does not harm your dog, but serves merely to startle them. In time, your pet will come to realize that certain actions result in an unpleasant shock, and will avoid those behaviors.

Halter Collars

Halter collars, also known as Haltis or gentle leader collars, offer additional control over your dog's behavior. The collar itself includes a muzzle-like section that covers your pet's mouth. This does not necessarily prevent your dog from biting, but it does allow you to have better control over your dog's actions. As with choke collars, setting the halter up incorrectly or pulling on it too hard can cause injury to your pet.

Halter collars are also useful when you take your pet in public, as they are easily recognizable and tend to discourage people from approaching your dog. Like choke collars, halter collars are best used on larger breeds.

No single type of collar will work for every dog, and some experimenting may be necessary in order to find a collar that assists in your training and that your dog is comfortable with.

 

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