We just rescued a 2 year old (they think) GSD mix this past Tuesday. Prong Collars: Everything you need to know (2023) - Rebarkable Thanks for sharing this article. Recommended just for you: Top 5 Reasons to Take Your Dog for a Walk. Jennifer Cattet, "Choke collars, prong collars or flat collars are harmful training tools. All of the images in this post contain dogs who are wearing prong collars incorrectly. Youre welcome ! And if your trainer tells you that this is not the case, then theyre not a trainer you should be working with. Meaning, they are walking well with no correction needed. But after reading your points and the testimonies of other people here, I feel a little more confident that I can find a safe and humane way of using this tool when doing further training. We now use the prong collar to train our own dogs and our foster dogs when needed. Marc thanks Jessica Pierce for her collaboration on this and other projects. He's become a more confident pup with the prong collar training. It is like an airbag, you hope it never has to deploy, but when you need, it better be there! I have a large, leash-reactive male German Shepherd. My Australian Shepperd is very very active and extremely loveable and he pulls like a German Shepperd. Research showing that force-free, positive reinforcement-based techniques are better for both human and dog is overwhelming, so much so that there is a growing list of countries that have banned shock collars, for example, Wales, Scotland, Switzerland, Slovenia, Germany, Austria, Sweden, Slovenia, and some territories in Australia. I would think they would still work as long as you have the collar up high on the neck. The e-collar is not banned in Scotland The Scottish ministers rejected the proposal as their independent reports found insufficient evidence. I want her to learn the actual commands I give her. I recommend prong collars, but only after consulting a certified dog training professional. Any collar, and training tool for that matter can cause damage to a dog if not used properly. As soon as the collar goes on I have total control over him. I dont see dog trainer in your credentials, but do see a link to a product which suggests you make money off of your recommendation. My 3 year old 70 lb pit bull has always been difficult and stubborn. Furthermore, it is downright dangerous to leave either choke chain or prong collar on dogs if not working. I have won over a few of my clients here in Monaco & France re. Dr. Zazie Todd writes, Lack of control over something can in itself be a source of stress. As a super strong pitty, he can yank a full sized adult over in a half a second to randomly lunge at a person or dog or squirrel. I think its a bad idea. We plan on taking him to training classes for sure but the dog is making everyone in the family cry, angry, sad because of the jumping/biting. Do not allow any pulling from now on. It literally saved his life. Therefore you are communicating with your dog when using these tools and the dog will understand what type of work it is going to be doing by recognizing the piece of equipment that you fit ie if you fit a tracking harness the dog will know that it is going to be doing tracking work. The 2 Most Psychologically Incisive Films of 2022, The Surprising Role of Empathy in Traumatic Bonding. Nothing worked until I found this site and started using a prong collar. The rescues and shelters are full of dogs that were not trained properly by their owners and so were abandoned. My latest furbaby the half boston/half lab was so smart that all the positive training methods only trained him to misbehave. No amount of chicken, ham or hotdogs were getting our dogs attention when she reacted. Every dog and situation is unique. I know my dog and one day well eventually work away from the prong collar but hes not there yet. I have a strong, 1.5 year old, hard headed, 60 pound English Springer Spaniel and he is all over the place on walks. With his prong collar, I barely even have to hold the leash. Veterinary Q&A: Prong collars are safe fact or fiction? I highly recommend following a couple of trainers online: https://www.facebook.com/MajorsAcademyDogTraining/ and https://www.facebook.com/SolidK9TrainingRI/ both of these trainers offer a lot of free advice. These trainers believe that the prong collar is cruel and should be banned. This is deliberate! I want to be able to enjoy walking him not only within the neighborhood but along trails this summer. Thats what they were built for, is to learn. (If youre struggling to teach a loose leash, this is for you. I hope that this informed guy and the other bus passengers who heard what I had to say stop to think about what theyre doing with their dogs and realize that my success is due to learning how to use a prong. And ask yourself, is it better for your dog to drag you through your walk, choking himself on his flat collar or to have a peaceful walk with your dog walking next to you, enjoying the smells and scenery? Knowing what you value will help you build the most meaningful life possible. My first dog was a female shepherd-mix rescue and I used a prong collar on her to amazing effect. Just train the right way the first time and dont seek shortcuts.. Regular collars allow the dogs to hurt themselves if they have no leash manners, and Ive personally seen this many times choking, damage to the neck, etc. I even sustained a back injury when he took off after a dog on a walk. prong collar Disappointed by the bias. You have to interpret the action, and tell your arm to move at a certain speed/pace/whatever else and deliver it quickly, or else your dog will not understand what youre correcting., If that window is that small and you make a mistake, would you prefer to be delivering confusing rewards, or confusing punishment?, No. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. By: Evelyn Konopik, RVT Prong Collar I just started using one. The OSPet offers a prong collar that is ideal for medium and large dogs with the maximum length of the collar at 24 inches and a diameter of 0.14 inches or 3.5 mm. My dogs immediately focused on me rather than being ramped up and anxious or hyper. Reviewed by Jessica Schrader, "Collars are a vital part of dog ownership. My dog like to take off after rabbits . Quebec will institute a ban on choke, I had a guy ask me yesterday, as my dog and I were riding the bus, why I had a prong collar on him. For some dogs it is more than just patience. Yes, positive training will take longer and will be harder work, but is that any excuse to resort to something that will make your dogs life uncomfortable? We make a concentrated effort to take him as many places as possible and have found some really great dog friendly parks, wineries etc. For this very reason, many countries with a progressive approach to pet safety and health, such as Austria and Switzerland, have already banned prong collars. Watch videos, learn how to use the collar correctly ( I wish YouTube had been around when I trained my first dog in 1995!) 3. I knew that if we kept at it, eventually the dogs would figure it out and be better behaved, but the fear of losing our pups made me feel we didnt have the time to be patient. It in fact dates the police academys training techniques back to the 1990s, along with their computer systems and their approach to the law is that something you really wish to stand with?, The My dog loves his prong, and gets all excited when he sees it is simple classical conditioning, such that your dog recognises that means training or walkies, that doesnt mean that they feel positive about the experience when the prong tightens around their neck., I mean, I can train your dog to see a lemon and think its the best thing in the world it doesnt mean theyll like the taste of lemon.. A prong collar (also called a pinch collar) is an example of a dog training collar, and usually replaces a flat collar. He didnt need to or want to. I have never been more grateful for this training tool, I love my dog and have put a lot of work and money into training him. Thanks! Just saw the first video about how to put it on -on your website. I would also suggest finding a good behaviorist trainer in your area that can help you one on one. They are simply NOT necessary; there are better ways to train! She quickly realized she wasnt a dog person and wanted to rehome her. You still need to train your dog. Then, watching YouTube videos last night, I came across Solid K9 Training (Jeff, above in this blog) and discovered that I was using the prong collar ALL WRONG even on my first dog. Although it is of course immediately effective, I fear hell go back to jumping, etc when not wearing it. CodeMiko posted in her Discord yesterday, sharing that she was suspended on Twitch for her use of a shock collar on herself during her Sunday, Feb. 26 stream. I broke down and bought a prong collar for my girls (18 month old pitbulls) theyre the sweetest dogs but pull like crazy especially when they see a person or another dog they want to play with. But, after attending a seminar with a balanced dog trainer and doing a lot of research, I realized what a great dog training tool the prong collar can be. Im a dog walker and deal with a lot of dogs of varying size, strength, and leash training. haha. Prong, or pinch, collars can look similar to a limited slip or martingale collar, other than they have metal prongs that protrude toward the canines throat when the pet uses the collar. Among Scandinavian countries , Sweden bans e collars. I should say that my dog is quite highly trained and in a training environment excels at quite advanced exercises. WebThere are two recommended sizes of prong collars for dogs. prong collars So, the reason he has to be carried into the house is that he wont move when he has a leash on. Prong and choke collars are typically placed on dogs with serious pulling issues. I have physical disabilities and any pulling from my 62 pound Labradoodle will hurt me. But that is true for a flat collar, letting the dog choke itself by pulling so hard the owner cant control him. No more choking off the trachea. I just switched him back to a no-pull collar, and its working much better w/ training him to stick around and not pull, especially w/ positive enforcement and treats. Right this instant. Bam. I urge you to not shy away from the prong collar just because of what it looks like or what youve heard about it in the past. Please do more research, because your answer sounded very disturbing. Thanks for sharing this. (See "Dogs Watch Us Carefully and Read Our Faces Very Well.") No matter how stubborn. In fact, there is some evidence that the opposite is true.. Good luck! My friend who also trains dogs showed me how to use it properly and it changed our lives! I did read Netherlands. But since I invested so much money in this trainer I figured I'd give it a try. I know you said you have to be careful with how hard they pull with the prong collar Im just worried my dog pulls too hard and may injure himself because my dad even has a hard time walking him. And I could say there is enough research that shows a flat collar and head halters cause more damage than a prong collar. I am a 12 year veteran of professional canine training and hands-down a prong collar is absolutely the safest most efficient way to train your fur babies!! We then moved and tried a force free trainer. The dog didnt even attempt to pull, lunge or drag me anywhere anymore. After 5 years we still must put it on him when in public even though we still do training in private with him frequently to get him to behave on a regular collar. But your points make sense to me. I personally never used a prong collar before being introduced to it a couple of years ago. Just put it on when you are getting ready to take a walk. She wore a harness. Its crazy how the internet is overwhelmed with posts claiming how dangerous these collars are when I find they have done wonders for both me and the dogs Im walking, all without hurting them. Misuse covers: poor or incorrect placement on the dog. poorly fitted collars or incorrectly sized. incorrect timing of corrections allowing dog to self correct. used in the car (especially to secure in the car) worn in a crate Attempting to solve incorrect problems with a prong long durations wearing a prong when used on the underaged when used on shy dogs when used on scared dogs when used on aggressive dogs when used whilst not defined training sessions when used whilst unattended when used with anything other than a short leash. The positive training methods consist of a verbal correction, which leads to a treat (definitely food motivated dog). I do worry about what other people think, even though I shouldnt. This isn't the case in England, where they're legally allowed to be used without restriction. Anna, if used and fitted properly, the prong collar is going to be a life changer and youll wander why you waited so long to try it! Click here to read my full disclosure policy. This needs to be done with good training. My dog loves going on walks and he always wears a prong collar when we leave the house. Thank you so much for sharing. It is not allowed to permanently keep a dog in a box; only two hours per day at the most. I always enjoyed walking my dog because I love him and I like to get out and walk, but now walking him is sooooooo much better. It was a lifesaver for me and he was a true angel to walk with it. Hes pretty good on walks but pulls to the point of choking himself. (See "Choose a Dog Trainer as Carefully as You Would a Surgeon" and "Dog Training's Dirty Little Secret: Anyone Can Legally Do It."). I found the prong collar to be far more humane than say a shock collar, a flat collar, or even an ill fitted harness. Filter by 1 Inch Custom Hidden Prong Embroidered Collar $0.00. Discuss with you when they should be used and when they shouldnt. We have been working at it for 5 months now and occasionally I will just use his regular collar.he pulls every time! Great article!! Prong Collars Banned in Queensland Australia Dr. Ernie Ward This merely trained him to bite me, then sit back and wait for a treat when he quit. As for the comment about it causing pain, no one has ever mentioned their dog cries out, winces in discomfort. Lately, I am getting hounded on social media about responding to a post saying it was a great tool for training. If you use the prong collar correctly and correct your dog BEFORE he takes off for the rabbit, then yes. So, out comes my trusty prong collar. Thank you Melanie for sharing your story! We are switching over to a 1 on 1 trainer very soon hoping it will help with his other problems we are having at home. A prong collar should sit right behind the ears and Hes actually spit them out when he hes determined to get to something else. If you are consistently pulling the collar he may become numb to any corrections. Some dog breeds tend to be wanderers, and an intact dog or girls in heat can be problem too. Ive never tried a prong collar on anything but a 6 leash. Good luck, I wish you all the best. He is only c. 30 lbs., a puggle, but very strong. Consider the woman about whom Mary wrote who chose to leave her choke collar at the veterinary clinic after her dog suffered from a prolapsed eye. He is absolutely gorgeous and has the sweetest disposition. It certainly would not work if you kept yanking on it all the time. And in the mean time the poor dog is confined to his home? Your email address will not be published. Harriet, you need to calm down. Were embarking on our first walk tomorrow!! I still use it, especially on walks and it helps her not pull too hard and injure her neck. It seems like the use of collars is a readily accepted part of dog guardianship. Does the prong collar hinder your relationship with your dog? When used correctly the prong collar will immediately stop your dog from pulling you. Got a wonderful lab mix last summer; believe he's never been trained or on a leash. But I dont want to be cruel, OR injure him. It is unfortunate that some people just arent willing to see past that book cover, and see what the prong collar really is a very humane dog training tool. But in some situations all that goes out the window. WebProng collars are legal in most states, but there are some places where they are banned or regulated. I can get away with taking her to off leash parks sometimes but I dont always have the time to drive there as Im also mom to 3 kids. We could tell it was simply because their want to chase after whatever they saw was stronger than their want for treats. If the prong is desingned not to be uncomfortable or cause pain, how does it actually work? PostedApril 25, 2019 At first, yes once you take the collar off, he will pull. The prong collar is a tool to train leash manners. WebPinch and prong collars are collars with prongs positioned against the neck, or any other protrusion intended to cause pain or discomfort, especially when tightened. I have only used the style that the prongs go all the way around the neck, so I cant speak of the effectiveness of the ones that dont. Hes sweet smart and strong. Prong Collars Prong Collars Kilian you are very welcome. WebPerhaps it was the way the cave people restrained their wild dogs from running away. For the first time ever I relaxed and smiled while in a vets waiting room! PRONG Picking up a prong collar tomorrow. Dogs become reactive (largely) through fear or excitement. large dog in a prong collar getting out of a pool on a leash Are Prong Collars Harmful To My Dog Or Puppy? I have a 150lbs St Bernard mix, I cant walk her she is stronger then me. Woodrow doesnt mind it at all. Ive come to the conclusion that the people bashing the prong collar never had a dog like yours. I am certainly not here to push, either way, just to give the facts and my opinion on what a great training tool it can be when used properly. Her classes are pure chaos, as nobody has any control with head halters, harnesses and flat collars. But according to a new study published in the Journal of Veterinary Behavior, there is no credible scientific evidence to justify electronic collar use and the use of spray collars or electronic fences for dogs.. Bekoff, Marc. Give it a chance, try it out and see what a difference it can make with your relationship with your dog. With the prong, he is walking next to me instead of pulling and I can walk him easily with one hand. Yes that is the entire purpose of the prong, to use it as a training tool. Prong collars are legal to use in the UK, but they are not typically recommended by behaviorists or trainers. page. We are the first time adoptive fur parents of a Yellow Lab Mix. No warning, no rhyme or reason as to when it will occur. Have watched several videos by Jeff Geller and purchased a Herm Sprenger prong collar. I dont want her to listen to me just because she fears what comes if she doesnt. Had him two years now he has also been attacked by other stray pitbulls. Its kinda like tapping your dog on the shoulder to keep his attention on you. So far, only a handful of countries have moved to ban shock collars. "As long as we are looking for shortcuts to proper training, both the dog and the guardian will likely suffer long term consequences from a poor choice of training tools, a poor use of these tools and the negative side effects from their aversive properties." Leashes restrict dogs' ability to have control of their lives and to make choices. However, I am primarily writing here because he recently growled and snapped at our 1.5 year old son while getting a correction with the collar he has never done this before. Unfortunately, people really just dont understand these collars and that they can actually help prevent damage or injury, and help owners bond and communicate better with their dogs. Ive noticed several times that ours become lodged and arent connected all the way, leading to it easily being able to break apart when the dog pulls. You dont need a prong collar. And never crate the dog with it on. from his dog trainer) and immediately she ceased the pulling. Whilst I would hope youd use it right (though, I dont think I would trust myself to use it right consistently over long periods of time), it also doesnt surpass the fact that you can probably achieve your loose leash walking goals way easier than banishing your pup or dog to this device., No, they are not suitable for use on a puppy. Some societies and activists are taking action against their use; lets hope for a piece of good news in the future. So many people misuse them, but when used correctly theyre very good tools. I love my dogs very much and I know in my heart that I am not a bad dog mom. I would not use a prong collar for him. If you want to advocate for using aversive tools, thats fine, but lying and telling people that the prong doesnt hurt , only makes you look ridiculous . Prong Collar Pronged Collars Should be Banned Because They are Harmful to Dogs-Fiction! I think hes smart enough to realize that hes in control, if he doesnt pull, his collar is comfortable for him. Quebec will institute a ban on choke, prong, and shock collars in 2020. Thats not the case. Do you think there is growing interest in passing laws to improve animal welfare? I noticed early on that other dog owners or even people who have seen a dog somewhere in their lifetime, have become experts on how to care for MY dog, irrespective of how theyre known me! When I am conducting group training sessions I introduce the prong collar to each and every one of my classes and I properly fit it around my own bare leg and give it the correct pull as if I were training a dog to demonstrate to my groups how safe and non-damaging the prong collar is.