Dog Training Collars

There are several dog training collars available for using in a training program. Training your dog properly is an important part of pet care, and training collars are one tool available to help you train your dog the right way. However, not all training collars are recommended, and some are even dangerous to your dog’s behavior. Here is a general overview of some of the training collars available for dogs.

Choke Collars

Choke collars are available in nylon, chain, or prong form. They are used by some dog owners for training, being placed around a dog’s neck (right behind the ears). The theory behind the development of a choke collar is that when you pull on the leash, it gives a quick “tug” to a dog’s collar that feels very similar to a mother grabbing her puppy by the scruff of the neck. The choke collar immediately releases after the tug, to prevent closing off your dog’s air circulation. While some people still swear by the effectiveness of a choke collar, many people are choosing to seek alternate methods of training their dogs. Choke collars are often associated with more harsh training methods, and may not be right for every dog.

Spiked Collars

A spiked collar is a collar that is frequently used for long-haired dogs. The collar is usually either nylon or metal chain, with inward-facing spikes on the inside of the collar. The spikes do not cause pain to the dog, except if the dog pulls or tugs on the collar. When this occurs, the spikes press up against a dog’s neck. These collars are also called “pinch” collars, and are usually used for stubborn or easily excitable dogs. As with choke collars, spiked collars are associated with harsh training, and are not as popular in pet dog care training as some other types of collars.

Shock Collars

Commonly called “correction” collars, a shock collar is a device that attaches around a dog’s neck. Two metal prongs press up against a dog’s skin, and are controlled by a remote. By pressing a button on the remote, a dog’s owner can deliver a low-intensity electric shock as a correctional punishment for bad behavior. Many dog owners are choosing not to use these types of collars, since they incite pain as a punishment.

Bark Collars

Barking collars are similar to shock collars, but are sound-operated. A barking collar either emits a high-frequency sound or delivers an electric shock when a dog barks. Since these collars are sound-operated, they may not be ideal for dogs that are left outdoors, since they could potentially be triggered by passing cars or loud noises.

Nylon Collars

This is the standard collar that is available for dogs. Most nylon collars come in a variety of colors, and are buckle-release. You can choose either to get a regular collar, or a “break-away” collar which will release to prevent a dog from choking (such as if a dog’s collar becomes caught on a fence). Most nylon collars also include a metal ring which is used to attach a leash.