Obviously, proper training is essential, you are right there. In our training, we desensitize the dog to the collar, meaning it never gets a correction with it on for the first week or so. The owner simply makes the dog associate it with good things (playing fetch, toys, treats, feeding, playing), so that when it comes time for training with it, he will never fear it. This process never stops - even after the prong is being used for corrections, it always has to remain a positive thing - playing with it on, eating, receiving praise and treats, etc.

I mostly agree with you about the choke collars though. Because so many people put them on incorrectly, once tightened, they cannot loosen again, chocking your dog in the process. Also, choke collars always put the blow to the same point on the dog’s neck, which will cause discomfort, possible injury and at the very least, a damaged coat.

All that you say about the potential harm to a dog using both of these collars I agree with…. when an untrained owner “experiments” with them on their dog!!!!

Shannon Pennings
http://www.precision-dog-training.com

And if you have a dog that is constantly pulling on the leash, your dog needs some obedience training! Prong collars are perfect for training this type of dog.

For proper dog training, head halters should not be used. These are merely restraining devices, not to mention very harmful to your dog’s neck and spine. The constant action of the dog’s head being pulled to the side when it tries to pull forward can cause neck or spinal injury. Just think of what may happen if your dog lunges suddenly after a squirrel! Most dogs I’ve seen that wear these halters spend more time trying to rub them off their muzzles than learning anything in training class. So as far as comfort goes, they really aren’t.

For more info or to contact us, visit:

http://www.precision-dog-training.com

Shannon Pennings