Dog Training Guidelines 

Your Source Of Dog Training Tips & Guidelines 

A few of the most common names associated with dog training collars are --- choke chain, choke collar, slip collar, correction collar, or simply dog training collar. All these are names for various dog training collars which are commonly used by dog training professionals as well as amateur trainers on a daily basis.

Dog training collars are valuable tools when used correctly. Below are listed a few simple rules to apply whenever utilizing dog training collars of any style:

Do you have properly fitting dog training collars?
A correctly fitted dog training collar will make the collar simpler to handle and much safer for the dog. Deciding if the dog training collar is the proper size is fairly simple. Ideally the dog training collar needs to fit snugly, but comfortably when slipping over the dog’s head.

There is an important balance when choosing a dog's training collar, it should not be overly loose while also not be so small as to be hard to put onto the dog. Dog training collars which fit to tightly are hard to get on and off the dog, and training collars which are too loose may accidentally slip off the dog whenever the dog lowers his head. It is also important to keep the total length correct so the dog training collar is not to long.

It is recommended to measure the dog's neck using a flexible tape measure, and add between 1 to 2 inches to the measurement you get. If you got a measurement of 13 1/2 in. from your dog's neck you would need to purchase a collar of 15 in. in length to properly fit the dog. Most chain style slip collars are offered in increments of 2 inches so you would purchase a 16 in. dog training collar to be certain it will fit smoothly over the dog's head.

Are you using the dog training collar correctly?
You should never use a dog training collar as a tool for punishment. By doing so the dog will learn to relate training exercises with unhappy events and may completely loose interest. Training should be fun for both of you. When correcting with a dog training collar use quick sharp tugs on the training collar. Never apply constant pressure, doing so could choke the dog or cause serious injury to his neck or throat.

Is the dog training collar the correct weight for the dog?
Not only is the weight of a training collar important, the size of links need to be considered for correctly choosing the dog training collar for your dog's weight and size.

Are you correctly placing the dog training collar?
Correctly placing the dog training collar on the dog's neck is a very important part of putting the collar on. While putting on a dog training collar, make certain the portion of chain which connects to the lead must be at the top of dog's neck.

Also, make certain the length of chain which is connected to the lead moves up and down next to your leg or between you and the dog allowing the release of tension instantly when you relax the pressure on the lead. (i.e. the lead snaps onto the collar and goes straight down and around the dog's neck and back to the loop which the chain runs through. With your dog on your left side the slip portion should move straight up and down next to your left leg. It should not go across the dog's neck and around. )

These types of dog training collars function by pulling the collar tight then loosing in a quick motion. Tightening of the dog training collar is the first step of correction and releasing the pressure is the second step of correction. Remember these are quick sharp snaps, and with a properly placed training collar it will last only a second or so. Like a clap of your hands, quick and sharp.

Should the dog training collar not be placed correctly or allowed to slip down from the top of the dogs neck the collar will not release the tension when pulled tight. This constant pressure on a dog's neck will often result in a negative response from the dog, and he will probably learn very quickly to tug or pull against the lead.

Be certain to purchase a quality dog training collar which is both well made and is strong enough for your size of dog. This is imperative for the safety of your dog as well as for yourself.

What happens if the dog training collar breaks?
Foremost, don't panic! It is likely for a couple of minutes or so that your dog will not realize he has the unexpected freedom. Simply pretend the collar is working as usual and normally you can regain control by catching hold of the dog's neck or back.

Should you experience a collar break, you should be able to create a make shift collar using your lead. Simply catch hold of the snap end of the lead and feed it through the loop or handle of the leash making a nice slip collar. Might not be beautiful but it sure beats a loose dog.