Know All About Good Dog Training Collars

Most dog owners wish that they could have more control over their dogs. With dog training collars, however, you can get what you want, i.e., better control with more comfort, and making sure that you are leading your dog more effectively. You will find that there are basically two types of head halters that are available for dogs. One type is known as the gentle leader and the other type is known as the Halti.

Though both dog training collars are useful, the gentle leader has an advantage because of its better design that ensures better control. The design is simpler, as it settles behind your dog’s ears and then goes around the muzzle. Under the dogs chin, it is connected with nylon straps. But do not confuse it with muzzle. The dog can be controlled simply by using of general leader to control his nose. This is sure to make your dog follow.

The second type of do training collar is the Halti. It has been made following the same type of principles as the gentle leader. However the design is much more complex and this can even cause problems as it might interfere with its functioning. Infact, at times, these dog training collars have been known to cause injuries in the neck and the spine of the dog.

There is another type of dog collar available that looks kind of intimidating. This is known as the prong collar which is quite effective for controlling dogs that are large, and have a thick neck. However these are not meant for those that yank in your arms. The collar, that tries to pinch the dog’s neck by using light pressure, may remind you of a torture device used in the medieval times. However, as the pressure is mild, it does not really hurt the dog, and thus it does not cause any harm. It only helps to make sure that your dog moves in the right direction. These dog training collars must not be used for dogs that tend to steadily pull on the leash, since this is essentially a correction device, not a constant collar. This type of a dog training collar should not be used if you have just become a dog owner, and extensive studying on its use is yet to be done.

Also, it is always advisable to consult your vet before you fit it to your pet.

An old type of a standby, known as the choke chain, is also available. As it comes in last it is definitely not for the novice. There have been many studies proving that a number of neck injuries are caused with this type of collar. Therefore it is not advisable to use these dog collars, unless you are quite an experienced trainer.

So, when you are selecting a dog training collar, get some information on their proper use and use some common sense too. You and you dog are sure to make a happy pair!

2 Responses to “Know All About Good Dog Training Collars”

  1. [...] Though both dog training collars are useful, the gentle leader has an advantage beca Source: http://www.dogownerclub.com/know-all-about-good-dog-training-collars/ Jul 04, 2008 | | Dog [...]

  2. Actually, a prong collar is a wonderful tool for training any dog over 3 months of age. They can safely be used on any size dog, from small to large. Contrary to what the pet store may tell you, a big dog doesn’t necessarily need a large link prong, or a small dog need a small link. The smaller the link, the firmer the correction, so having a small link prong on a large dog will give you better control. Students of mine have used prongs on Shitzu’s, Beagles, Weimeraners and other breeds with small necks. The difference would be that you don’t correct as firmly on a little dog as you would a large, strong one. You are right though - no dog owner should use these collars without proper training in an obedience class! Unsure about using one? Try it on yourself! I have!

    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

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