When putting on a prong collar, it's essential to start with the right mindset. You should be calm and patient, as this will help your dog feel more at ease.
To begin, ensure you have a properly fitted prong collar. According to our guide, the prong collar should fit snugly around your dog's neck, with about two fingers' width of space between the collar and your dog's neck. This allows for a comfortable and secure fit.
Next, place the prong collar on your dog's neck with the prongs facing away from your dog's face. This will help prevent any accidental scratching or poking.
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Choosing the Right Prong Collar
Choosing the right prong collar is crucial for effective training. The size of the prong collar should be proportional to the dog's neck size, with a general rule of thumb being to choose a collar that is about 1-2 inches larger than the dog's neck.
Check this out: Prong Collar Size
A prong collar with 18-22 prongs is suitable for most adult dogs, as it provides the right amount of correction without being too harsh. The number of prongs should be adjusted based on the dog's size and temperament.
The material of the prong collar is also important, with stainless steel being a popular choice due to its durability and resistance to rust. Some prong collars also have a nylon or leather strap, which can be more comfortable for the dog.
The weight of the prong collar should not be too heavy, as this can cause discomfort and even injury to the dog. A general rule of thumb is to choose a collar that weighs between 4-6 ounces.
Prong collars come in different styles, including fixed and adjustable collars. Fixed collars are suitable for dogs that require a consistent level of correction, while adjustable collars are better for dogs that need more flexibility in their training.
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Proper Collar Placement
A prong collar should be placed high on the dog's neck, just behind the ears. This ensures optimal communication and minimal discomfort for your dog.
The collar should fit snugly, but not excessively tight. You may need to remove or add extra links to obtain the right fit.
Make sure the collar doesn't droop because it can get caught easily, pinch the dog's neck, and they can easily back out of it and escape.
For large and strong dogs, like American Staffordshire Terriers and Dobermans, a 3 mm prong collar may be necessary.
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Putting it Together
If you're still unsure how to size the prong collar, watch this short and quick video for a quick demonstration on how we put on a prong collar.
First, you'll need to gather all the necessary components, including the prong collar itself, a buckle or clip, and a leash.
The prong collar is designed to be adjustable, so you can easily customize the fit to your dog's neck size.
To put the prong collar on, start by placing the buckle or clip at the desired position on your dog's neck.
The video will walk you through the exact steps, but essentially, you'll need to thread the leash through the buckle and attach it to the prong collar.
Related reading: Martingale Collar Sizing
Frequently Asked Questions
Are prong collars harmful to dogs?
Yes, prong collars can be very harmful to dogs, causing severe skin and muscle inflammation, as well as potential injuries to the neck, windpipe, and thyroid glands. If you're considering using a prong collar, it's essential to learn about safer and more humane training methods.
Do prong collars stop pulling?
Yes, prong collars can be effective in stopping pulling on walks, but they should be used under the guidance of a professional trainer to ensure proper use and avoid potential harm to the dog. Properly used, prong collars can help dogs walk more calmly by their handler's side.
Can I walk my dog with a prong collar?
Yes, you can walk your dog with a prong collar, but it's essential to use it correctly to avoid causing discomfort or harm to your dog. To do so, learn how to give a proper leash correction, such as a quick, gentle "pop" of the leash.
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