If you've seen a dog training collar, it might make you think of it as a medieval torture device. The inner thorns on it look quite menacing, it seems that the dog in any case, even with exemplary behavior, will experience physical torment in it. But professional service dog instructors recommend its use as a proven, animal-safe method of obedience training.
What is a strict collar used for?
A strict collar is not at all a sadist's tool, necessary in order to strangle an animal as painfully as possible, as many think. Some owners reject this accessory with indignation, which, in their opinion, involves rough and cruel treatment of the dog. But when handled correctly, a strict collar is one of the most effective ways to train and correct an animal's behavior.
It is worn so that the thorns are in contact with the dog's coat and skin in the places that are used by lactating bitches and pack leaders. The first - for educational bashing of puppies, the second - asserting their dominant superiority. A strict collar, which is used whenever the process of training and learning interaction between the owner and the dog begins, will quickly and effectively teach him to walk without pulling on the leash and, in addition, will convey corrective instructions to the dog. It is a safe and humane tool that facilitates mutual understanding, only it must be used correctly.
Straight collars are not used for training puppies, as they can injure a dog that is just beginning to learn the basics of obedience.
How to use a prong collar correctly
First of all, you need to learn how to properly put it on your dog. The collar is sized according to the weight of the animal and then adjusted in place using detachable links or a special tightening chain. It should sit tight enough so as not to slip and at the same time not to choke the dog - there should be a finger gap between the spikes and its neck.
It is necessary to take off and put on the collar very carefully so that, inadvertently shaking its head, the dog does not damage its eyes. After putting on the collar, check if you did it correctly. To do this, pull it up or down on the free loop, after you release the tension, the collar should return to its original place and take a free position on the dog's neck.
You can replace the strict collar during training with another similar device - an electric shock collar.
During training, so that the dog does not develop a habituation reflex, the collar should be worn in advance. Otherwise, it may turn out that the dog will behave obediently only when he is on it. When you work out commands, the jerk for the strict collar should be done only in order to correct the behavior of the animal, and immediately after the correct action it is recommended to stroke and praise the dog. It is recommended for a beginner to train a pet with a strict collar under the supervision of a trainer.
