What is a pinch collar?

The pinch collar is also known as the prong collar. It is made of a series of prongs or spikes that are linked together.  There is a safety ring that goes around the dog’s neck. Then there is a "D" shaped ring. You can hook your leash onto this ring. 

The pinch collar has been designed to correct the dog in a manner similar to that of a mother correcting her pups.  The pack leader would also correct his subordinate dogs in a similar manner. That is he would give his subordinate a "nip" on the neck.

Some pinch collars come with a quick snap release. This is good and safe for novices to use. Collars that come without the snap release should be undone by releasing a prong. But people generally tend to pull the collar over the head. This could injure the dog’s eyes. So be careful when you remove the pinch collar.

Ensure the right fit for a pinch collar

Here it is important for you to understand the difference between fit and size. They are two different aspects of the pinch collar altogether.

Size

The size indicates the size of the prong. Size does not indicate the diameter of the collar.  Sizes could be small, medium or large.  For dogs smaller dogs weighing up to 30 pounds, a small size is okay. Dogs weighing more than 30 pounds will require medium or large sized prongs. The size of the prong determines the amount of pinch the dog is subjected to. 

Fit

You can alter the fit of the collar by adding or subtracting prongs. This will change the diameter of the collar. You ought to be able to fit about half finger space between the tip of the prong and the skin of your dog's neck. Then the pinch collar has a proper fit.

Putting it on too loose will not help. This is because the number of corrections you apply will be more. Prolonged usage of the collar will only chaff the dog’s neck without any positive results.

Being Collar-Smart!

Dogs are intelligent animals. You will be amazed to find that your dog behaves like an absolute angel when you put the pinch collar on him while training. But the minute the collar is off he will forget all about listening to you. This is being collar smart!

So you have just got to be smarter! So leave the pinch collar on him at any time that you happen to be interacting with him. Then he will not get too collar smart.

The prong collar is a completely safe training tool when used properly. It is safe and humane too! It is like power steering. It teaches your dog to walk with propriety on a loose leash. It allows you to give your dog motivational correction. The pinch collar is probably the most widely used tool by professional dog trainers.

The Gentle Leader

The Gentle Leader or the Halti is another gizmo that is available in the market. It is similar in appearance to the head halters that are used on horses. It prevents your dog from pulling away from you. It is easy to use and not very expensive either. It is just a restraint mechanism.

It works on the principle that that the halter controls your dog’s head. And the rest of the body follows the head. You can use it when you take your dog for a walk on the leash. It does not correct unwanted behavior. It could have an adverse affect on the spine if yanked suddenly. So be careful and avoid sudden jerks.

 Clicker

A clicker is a small hand held training device. It is used to condition good behavior. It is very simple to use. You just have to press and click. The nicest thing about this is that it gives instantaneous results. So just as your dog performs as desired, just click and follow with a reward.

So soon your dog will learn that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he has performed as desired by you. He also knows that he will be rewarded. The logic is so simple. Click and then reward. No click then no reward. The clever animal will soon figure this out rather fast and easily too.

Another advantage of a clicker is that it can be used from a distance. Your dog will come to you on hearing it to collect his reward! It can also safely be used for puppies.

Dog Training Academy | Privacy Policy | Terms And Conditions | Affiliates