Originally Published here: Choke Collar Dog Training
When considering ways of training your dog, choke collars come up as a possible tool. The name alone is enough to scare you. With pinch collars, electric shock collars, and choke collars, you would think the dog training industry is out to torture our pets! Despite the unfortunate name, however, these collars are safe and effective tools with which to train your pets. Should you use a choke collar? Dog training can be a bit quicker and easier with this tool.
When using choke collars for dog training, it is important to use them properly to maximize results and minimize the risk of injury. If the collar doesn’t fit right or is incorrectly used, it is possible for injury to occur. To prevent that, try the following:
* Measure your dog’s neck and add two inches. This is the size collar you should purchase.
* Drop the chain through either ring to form the letter P. Then slip it over your dog’s head (don’t worry if it is a little bit of a tight squeeze over the head. Most dogs have larger heads than necks). Attach a leash to the ring and release. There should be no tension on the collar or your dog’s neck.
* Make sure that the end of the chain that attaches to the leash is on top of the dog’s neck. This will help keep the chain from becoming snagged in the coats of more hairy dogs.
* Use the lightest chain possible to improve the smoothness of the sliding action.
* Don’t use choke collars on dogs less than twenty pounds. Choke collars are great for training large, energetic dogs.
* Give only light tugs. The point is to gently correct your dog, not yank him around. When you need to remind your dog of proper behavior, give a short tug and say, “No!” in a firm voice. Release the tension immediately.
* Use the choke collar only during training sessions. The rest of the time, use a regular nylon collar. Many dog parks don’t allow choke chains.
When you are training your dog, choke collars can be a great tool. Before you buy one and start using it, ask a professional for some more tips on safe and proper usage. Far from hurting your pet, choke collars can help make dog training quicker and more effective.
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