The 5 Must Know Considerations To Have A Training Collar In Best Use

Training collars are the most popular and commonly used tools in dog training. The basic ones are called in different names like choke collar, training collar, slip collar, or correction collar. To be effective, like any tools, training collars need proper use. Here are the most important considerations when using them:

1. Does it fit your dog? It is important to take not of the size of the collar to make it easier to use and safer for your dog.

2. Is it put on accurately? Putting the collar on your dog has the possibility of being wrong and it poses potential harm and ineffectiveness.

3. Is it properly used? A training collar should NOT be used for punishment but rather a tool to keep him reminded of his restrictions. So avoid constant pressure when using the collar.

4. Are you using the right type of chain? See to it that the weight of the chains and the size of the links are proportionate to the size and weight of the dog.

5. Is the placement of the collar good? The collar must be properly placed on the dog because many possibilities depend upon it. For instance a training collar that is too tight could be hardly put on or off. Then again, the one that is too loose may unintentionally fall off of the dogs head. This is the reason why a dog owner should remember that an ideal size of a collar fits securely yet comfortably.

Also, it is necessary to be aware that in order to use properly a training collar which is too long for the dog, the handler needs a good deal of skill when using it. For proper sizing and measure of the dog, it is best to use a tape measure. Then provide 2 to 3 inches allowance for that measurement. Example, if your dog has a neck 14 in circumference, it is better to buy a training collar that is 16 long. But there are available chain slip collars which are basically sized in two inch increments.

Now, when fitting the pet collar properly, the part of the chain connected to the harness must be placed at the top of the dogs neck. This way, the collar can be easily released. Finally, purchase a high quality training collar that is both strong and well made for safety purposes.

Author Resource:

To learn more about dog containment, underground pet fence and other training tips and tricks, please visit dog containment systems.

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How to Use a Head Halter as a Basic Dog Training Tool

A head halter is a special kind of collar with a strap that goes around your dog’s nose and another strap that goes around his neck, just behind his ears. The leash fastens under his chin to a ring that’s attached to the nose strap. When your dog begins to pull, the design of the head halter causes the dog’s nose to
be turned back toward you, which makes it physically difficult for him to continue pulling.

The head halter is completely humane, as it doesn’t cause any pain and works much better to prevent a dog from pulling than a choke chain or prong collar.

Information and tips on how to use a head halter effectively and how to train your dog to get used to it are discussed in this free video.



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Important Things You Should Know Before Using Control Tools

There is a difference between training and control but that difference is often lost. Training a dog involves the use of hand gestures and commands. It can be used with leashes or treats but the end goal is to bring about a desired behavior in your dog. However control is slightly different. This often involves the use of electronic fences, choke or 'no-bark' collars, electronic fences or similar types devices or tools.

Don't get me wrong; control is not a bad thing. Dogs, being pack animals, are driven by a natural social hierarchy. They have an ingrained behavior that makes them look for and try and determine who the leader or alpha dog is. And in a dog-human relationship the leader should always be the human. If the human does not take on the role of alpha dog the results can range from a poorly socialized animal, to destructive behavior, to a frustrated or maladjusted canine.

Just like people, dogs have distinct personalities. Some are more assertive and confident while others may be more shy or slower to learn. The choke collar was developed as a control tool that is designed to assist the dog handler in gaining or regaining control. As an example a correction with this type of collar would be given to discourage a dog from jumping or pulling.

There are, however, some counter-productive or dangerous consequences that can arise from the improper use of choke collars. It is designed to tighten and pinch when pulled and then immediately release as you release tension on the leash, but this can only happen if fitted correctly. When the collar in on your dog there should be a gap of about one to three fingers. A good pet store or dog training will be able to assist you with the proper fit.

If a choke collar is improperly used the pinched skin can be irritated forming hot spots. These hot spots can begin to worsen as the dog scratches them. If the collar is improperly placed on the dog's neck the trachea can be compressed causing damage. However when used correctly, using a quick pull-and-release, corrections made with a choke collar create discomfort but are not harmful.

Another type of control collar is the prong collar. While they look scary they are not as dangerous as they appear. They are limited to how far they can be closed. They are usually used to prevent a dog from pulling but if this type of collar is the only thing that can stop the pulling behavior you should seek professional training as a more permanent fix. The halter collar is a type of device that fits around the dog's neck and over the muzzle. This is used for dogs that only moderately pull on the walk.

For dogs that are incessant barkers there are collars known as 'no-bark' collars. While it is natural for a dog to bark, these are used for dogs that bark at everything all the time. This can be from nervous anxiety, frustration or fear. It is always preferable to find and deal with the root causes.

In extreme cases of unhealthy of even dangerous behavior a shock collar can be used. These deliver a painful but short electric shock. These should only be used under the guidance of a professional dog trainer.

Unfortunately, there are no quick fixes for unwanted behaviors such as pulling and barking. While these and other tools may offer a short term solution they are not meant to replace proper and consistent dog training techniques.

Important Things You Should Know Before Using Control Tools by Stefan Hyross.

Stefan Hyross writes about topics such as training puppies on All About Dogs 'N Puppies. Feel free to visit the site for more information on subjects like housebreaking a dog and other dog related articles.

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Demystifying the Modern Myths and Misconceptions About Electronic Training Collars

Electric dog fences, bark collars, and dog training collars have become a popular method for pet owners to control the behaviors they find undesirable in their pet. With prices of these training systems becoming more affordable and pet owners finding them to be safe and effective, product sales have dramatically increased. As the widespread availability and increased sales of these electronic training collars grow, so do the many myths and misconceptions about them. These myths are often based on misinformation or ignorance of the facts. Unfortunately, many people believe these rumors and miss the opportunity of using a valuable dog training tool.

Myth #1: Electronic training collars are not safe

One of the most common questions asked by pet owners is "Will this hurt my dog." When used correctly, Absolutely Not! Today's electric dog fence collars, bark collars and dog training collars are more humane because they only emit a very mild electric stimulation. The "shock" produced by these electronic training collars is not painful, physically jarring or harmful and is nowhere near the level of intensity that some people think. In fact, the electric stimulation is actually a static correction similar to what happens when you rub your feet on the carpet and then touch something. The response is usually surprising and uncomfortable but, by no means, painful or harmful.

The following chart compares the energy discharge of electronic training collars with many common items. The energy output is measured in Kilovolts: 1- Electronic containment system such as an electric fence at its lowest level = .9 kilovolts 2- Remote training collar at low level = 1 kilovolt 3- Bark control collar at low level = 2 kilovolts 4- Nylon carpet at 50 relative humidity = 9 kilovolts 8- Abdominal energizer (ab stimulus machine) = 18 kilovolts 9- Cattle prod = 27 kilovolts 10-Defibrillator = 75 kilovolts 11-Stun gun = 625 kilovolts

With proper training and a good understanding of product use, these electronic training devices are very safe to use in achieving effective results and minimizing risk. However, incorrect use can put your pet at risk to some extent either physically or psychologically. Before using these training devices, pet owners should read ALL instruction manuals and education materials that are included with the product. Since every animal will react differently to correction, you should always begin training on the lowest setting and watch the dog closely to monitor its response. When used appropriately, electronic training devices are a safe and appropriate tool for most behavioral and containment issues that often frustrate pet owners.

Myth #2: Electronic collars can cause burns

This myth is not true or even possible. You cannot get burned by a static shock. Electronic training collars are still not as powerful as a static shock from carpeting on a dry day, even when set to their highest levels. Veterinarians often misdiagnose a condition called "Pressure Necrosis", which is responsible for this burn rumor. Pressure Necrosis occurs when the electric dog fence collar, bark collar, or dog training collar is fit too tightly on the pet's neck and/or left on too long. The continued pressure of the two metal probes on the dog's neck, along with the dirt and oils around those probes will cause the skin to break down and die. The result is two marks at the point of the probe contact that look and smell like hot spots or sores, which are often mistaken for burns. To help prevent this problem the electronic training collar should be removed from the pet when not being used. You should also clean the dog's neck with shampoo and the contact probes with alcohol at least once a week. Robert E. Schmidt, D.V.M., Ph.D. stresses that "prevention of Pressure Necrosis is the best treatment. If reddening of the skin is noted, the tightness of the collar should be evaluated." He also urges pet owners to "check for proper fit and irritation on a daily basis."

Myth #3: Electronic training collars are difficult to use and only professional trainers should use them

Keith Benson of Triple Crown Dog Training Academy (The largest canine training and behavior center in America) states that "With today's advanced collars that is certainly not the case. Improved technology has made them much easier to use and understand." He also said that "Almost any dog owner can understand the operation and use and will be able to communicate with his dog with 15 or 20 minutes of instruction. It is however important to understand how to use them before you put it on your dog. If you do not fully understand, then seek help from an experienced professional."

Education is the answer! Before making an opinion about the use of electric dog fence systems, bark collars and dog training collars as training tools, it is important to educate yourself and find someone who has had a successful dog training experience with them. When you are training a pet, you need to have as much information as possible. As you select an electronic training collar, make sure you choose one that provides you with instruction manuals and/or videos. Owners, who use the equipment correctly and spend a significant amount of time working with their dog, will see an overall improvement in their pet's behavior.

Resource: Demystifying the Modern Myths and Misconceptions About Electronic Training Collars by Carrie Wagner. Carrie Wagner writes for PetFencingSupplies.com, a site that carries a wide variety of electric dog fence systems, bark collars, dog training collars and more.

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Introducing Your Dog To A Remote Training Collar

Introducing your k9 to a training collar necessitates patience, time and perseverance in order to be successful. You should also acquaint yourself with relevant information on how this electronic training device works. Take note that different remote training collar designs have different levels of stimulation such as low, medium and high, and each of them is intended for specific dog breeds, ages and sizes.

Among the primary benefits of using a remote trainer in dog training is that you’ll be able to send immediate signals to your dog even from a distance to tackle his unwanted behaviors such as nuisance barking, jumping, chewing and many others. Electronic bark control collar, in particular, can be programmed to release harmless vibration to deter a dog from excessive barking.

Below are some simple tips to help you in introducing the remote training collar to your dog:

Before anything else, make sure that the collar perfect fits around your dog’s neck. Don’t choose a product that’s too loose or tight. It should not rub against your dog’s skin for it can cause irritation and discomfort.

The method of putting an electronic training collar is almost the same with that of regular nylon collar. The only difference is that it has a receiver which needs to be placed securely under the neck of your dog. This is the electronic component responsible for delivering a sensation to your dog. If you fail to place it against your dog’s skin, the training will never be successful.

When you introduce your dog to a training collar for the very first time, introduce him with the lowest level of stimulation, regardless of his size or breed. You will know if that’s the lowest intensity if your dog responds to it without even barking. If your dog barks loudly, that indicates that you’re using a high level of electronic stimulation.

Don’t rush things in order to prevent trauma or undesirable shock. It takes time before your dog eventually gets used to wearing the remote trainer collar. To determine your dog’s level, start with the lowest one. Press the continuous button while closely observing your pet. By this time, you should be looking into the involuntary twitch in his neck. If you see this reaction, this means that your dog feels the stimulation you’re giving him.

After establishing your dog’s training level, it’s time to reinforce commands and training methods. Just because you’re using an electronic collar doesn’t necessarily mean that you can automatically train your dog. Bear in mind that the primary function of such a training device is to allow your canine to associate the stimulation when he fails to obey your command. Never transmit an undesirable sensation to your dog unless he behaves badly or fails to follow his master.

Author: Rayter. Author's Resource:

The author is a dog trainer connected to a company that provides safe training collar devices at affordable prices. Find the most effective and advanced bark collars and other bark control collar systems carefully designed for all dogs.

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