prong collar- should I use one?

Newborn Join date : 2014-12-29 Location : kentucky

Hello I'm new to the forum and I want to train my two to heel, but only heel on collar. I have tried the gentle leader, it isn't as effective as i would like. So here is my question should I use a prong collar? I do know where to properly put it and how to fit it, but i have one major concern and that is will it damage my dog's trachea if they happen to lunge? Also is this an effective training tool?

Senior Join date : 2013-02-05 Location : seattle, wa

I'm wondering if you actually know how to fit one and use one . If you properly fit a prong collar, it will not damage their trachea which is exposed lower towards the bottom of the throat/neck area. Secondly, if you're using it properly, there will be no pulling as you will be able to issue corrections and keep your dogs exactly where you want them due to the effectiveness of your corrections, which is what you can never do with a harness.

Prong collars do not choke your dog. Slip collars , choke chains, and plain ole nylon collars are what choke dogs when used improperly or the dog is misbehaving.

Prong collars are extremely effectively and arguably more humane than any type of other collar out there, but you should know exactly what you are doing, why you are doing it, and how you are doing it. It is very easy to get a dog loose leash walking within seconds on one, but you have to be precise in your timing and technique.

I highly recommend you check out solidk9training videos on YouTube or his website for excellent training videos on prong collars.

Senior Join date : 2013-02-05 Location : seattle, wa

Remember, a correction in advance of a bad behavior is extremely more effective than a correction after a bad behavior.

A prong collar is best used with 100% engagement to your dog. You'll best use it by tuning into your dog's physical cues that precede lunging and issuing a correction as a *prevention* to their mind escalating into a frenzy. Once the mind escalates, reeling them back in is difficult, even with a prong collar.

Newborn Join date : 2014-12-29 Location : kentucky

Thank you for the advice, I will check out solidk9training.

Senior Join date : 2013-02-05 Location : seattle, wa

You're welcome. Let me know if you have any more questions.

Newborn Join date : 2014-12-29 Location : kentucky

Found a neighbor who has tons of experience with the prong, she went with me to Tractor Supply this morning to get the right one. She put it on Mishka, showed me how to use it and we took her for a walk. I can already see improvement, I'm impressed.