Prong collars are used as training collars or when you’re just starting to teach your dog how to walk. Dog owners and trainers use them to enforce obedience. Prong collars are different from choke collars. These collars have metal links that can pinch a dog’s skin, which is why it’s also commonly known as a pinching collar.
Your dog will perceive the pinch as a bite or a nip at the neck, and provoking negative reinforcement. You should use this type of collar properly. Otherwise, it can render the training futile and can even harm your dog.
Mind you, these collars are not for aggressive dogs. Read our other blog to know about the best collars for aggressive dogs.
How should you place a prong collar on a dog?
Before we dive into the details, there are several things that you should consider first.
1. Ask the experts
Doggo’s first day of training is quite exciting! But, you shouldn’t be overwhelmed and just grab any prong collar from the store. These are specialised collars used for training your dog. Therefore, prong collars should only be used under the supervision of an expert.
Improper use can result in pain for your dog. In addition, your training program won’t be able to produce the results that you want. Hence, it’s always wise to ask the experts. These professionals have a wealth of experience in using prong collars and can give you substantial advice.
Also, there’s a proper time to wear a prong collar. Yes, you can use it for long-term training, but not for casual walks. Doing so will give your dog mixed signals, and everything can turn chaotic from there.
2. Purchasing the prong collar
The metal link might be frightening for some dog owners. I get that it can look painful. But pain is something to worry about only if you purchase a substandard prong collar. Buying high-quality ones can save your dog from unnecessary pain.
Aside from quality, you need to figure in some factors when buying a prong collar:
- The weight of your dog. An improperly sized prong collar is painful.
- Buy only from experts and certified trainers. There’s no better place to buy these collars than from the websites of certified trainers. Sure, you can buy one from the pet store, but it won’t be as durable and comfortable for your dog.
- No to rubber-tipped prongs. You may think you’re doing your dog a favour by buying these, but in reality, it can do the opposite. The rubber can snag your dog’s fur and cause pain. Metal, on the other hand, glides smoothly on your dog’s coat.
3. Step by step procedure on how you should properly place a prong collar on your dog
- Place the prong collar just underneath the jaw of your dog and just behind the ears. Be careful not to place it too low as this would render the collar useless.
- Clip the collar behind the dog’s ears. The attachment for the leash should be facing upright.
- The prongs are adjustable. If it feels too loose, you can remove one of the metal prongs until it snugly fits your dog.
