Waylon Harvey

There are a variety of names that go under the broad heading of
"training collar". Some of them are --- choke collar, choke
chain, training collar, correction collar and slip collar. These
are all training collars and are used by professionals and
amateur trainers alike.



Training collars are effective tools if they are used properly.
Here are a few thoughts to apply when using training collars:



Does it fit? A properly fitted collar makes the collar easier
to use and a lot safer for the dog. Determining if the training
collar is the right size is relatively easy. The ideal size
training collar should fit snugly, yet comfortably over the
dog's head. It is important that the training collar not fit too
tightly, but it should not be too loose either. A training
collar that is too tight will be too hard to put on and off. On
the other hand, a training collar that is too loose can
accidentally fall off of the dog's head when it lowers its head.
The collar should also not be too long.



It is best to measure the dog's neck with a tape measure, then
add 2 to 3 inches to that measurement. So if your dog has a neck
12" in diameter, you would want to buy a training collar that is
14" in length. Chain slip collars are generally sized in two
inch increments.



* Has it been put on correctly? Put it on right and it will be
more effective and less dangerous.



* Is it being used correctly? Don't use the collar as
punishment. Rather, use it only as a sharp reminder to the dog
about their behavior. Use short sharp jerks of the collar, not
constant pressure. Using constant pressure could be dangerous to
the dog.



* Is it the right weight for your dog? In addition to the
weight, the size of the links should also be appropriate for
your dog's size and weight.



* Is the collar placed correctly? It is important to properly
place the collar on the dog. When fitting a training collar, the
part of the chain which is connected to the leash should be on
the top of the dog's neck. With this type of arrangement, the
collar releases the instant the leash is loosened. Training
collars work by making the collar tight and loose in a fast
manner. Tightening the collar is the first part of the
correction, and making it loose is the second part of the
correction.



If the part of the training collar that is attached to the leash
is not on the top of the dog's neck, the collar can still be
made tight, but it will not release back to a loose state
easily. This constant pressure on the dog's neck initiates a
counter response on the part of the animal, and the dog will
quickly learn to pull and strain against the leash.



Make sure you purchase a collar that is both well made and
strong. This is a vital step to the safety of yourself and your
dog.



What do you do if the collar breaks? First, don't panic! For the
fist couple of minutes your dog won't even know they have an
unexpected freedom. If you continue to pretend that the collar
is still attached, you can usually get control of the dog back.



If your collar should break, you can usually make a quick
replacement by making a "slip lead". Just take the snap of the
leash and run it through the handle and then slip the loop you
formed over the dog's head. Not perfect, but sure solves the
immediate problem.



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Harvey's dog training articles.





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