No matter what type of training collar you’re using for your dog, there is one fact that will remain true above all else – the collar must properly fit the dog.
At surface level, that admittedly sounds like a rather obvious statement to make. However, the truth is that there can be a lot more nuance involved with properly fitting a dog training collar than some people might think.
So for that reason, we’re going to be covering how to put on a dog training collar properly.
We’ll first go over some of the more common types of dog training collars available, followed by specific instructions when it comes time to put the collar on.
The Most Common Types of Dog Training Collars
Here are some of the most commonly available types of dog training collars.
Flat Collar
Probably the most common dog collar of all, flat collars offer a gentle fit, but it can admittedly be easy for dogs to accidentally choke themselves if they pull on their leash.
Head Collar
A head collar resembles the halter that you would place on a horse – it fits over the top of both your dog’s head and snout. Unfortunately, many people mistakenly assume these collars are only used on dogs with biting issues. However, head collars have a calming effect on many dogs, which makes training easier.
Prong Collar
Prong collars are somewhat controversial amongst dog trainers. While there’s no denying that they can be an effective training tool, many people also feel that they’re somewhat cruel as they can pinch the dog. Therefore, we strongly recommend against using prong collars unless absolutely required for correcting certain problematic behaviors.
E-collar
E-collars were also considered somewhat controversial in the past. However, with advancements in technology, you can now get many incredibly safe and effective dog training collars that use mild vibrations for reinforcement.
How to Properly Put a Training Collar on Your Dog
Regardless of the type of dog training collar you go with, the most important thing is to make sure it’s fitted properly. With that in mind, here is how to safely do that.
- If you’re using an e-collar, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the various features and functions available.
- If you’re using a prong collar, make sure that it’s properly fitted; it’s recommended to make a ‘P loop’ with the chain, leaving 3 to 5 inches of slack. This bears repeating – you can seriously hurt your dog if a prong collar is too tight, so make sure that you’re leaving enough extra space.
- Whatever type of collar you’re using, an ideal fit will sit relatively high on the neck, slightly below the base of the ears.
- You should ideally be able to (at minimum) fit at least 2 fingers in between the collar as well; if you can’t manage this, the collar is too tight.
- Ensure that you aren’t doing any extended training sessions when using e-collars; stick with shorter, 5-10 minute sessions for your dog’s comfort. The reason is that e-collars tend to be somewhat heavier than standard collars due to their built-in technology.
Final Safety Tips and Reminders
Here are a few closing safety tips and reminders to keep in mind concerning the proper use of dog training collars.
- Never leave your dog unattended if they’re wearing a prong-style collar.
- Likewise, you should never leave an e-collar on your dog for longer than 12 hours.
- You should always be able to fit at least 2 fingers in between the collar when your dog is wearing it.
Conclusion
As you can see, the seemingly straightforward act of putting a collar on your dog can actually involve quite a bit of nuance and proper decision-making. Above all else, you need to keep your furry friends’ comfort in mind at all times – and that applies whether you’re using an e-collar, a prong collar, or even just a regular dog training collar.
Remember – you want to prioritize a proper fit and comfort. As long as you can check both of those off, you and your dog will be in store for plenty of happy and productive training sessions.