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Slip Collars - Slip collars
(also referred to as “training collars” and “choke
collars”) are a valuable training tool when used
properly. These collars fit over a dog’s head, instead
of being wrapped around the neck. For this reason, slip
collars should fit a little more loosely than regular
collars. Typically, the size of the slip collar chain
should be equal to the circumference of the dog’s head –
measured across the ears and under the throat – plus 2-3
inches for larger breeds, and 1-2 inches for smaller
dogs.
Slip collars can be used effectively
when training dogs to follow commands and leash
maneuvers. They should only be used in supervised
training sessions. A dog should never be allowed to roam
free with a slip collar, since it can become entangled
in bushes or other objects and lead to choking. A dog’s
everyday collar should be removed before a slip collar
is put on to avoid injury.
A slip collar consists of a chain strip
with rings at both ends. The chain is run through one of
the rings to form a loop, which is then slipped over the
dog’s head. When this happens, the ring that had the
chain dropped through it will remain stationary on the
dog’s neck. The other ring will be a “moving ring.”
The lead must be attached to the moving
ring. When the slip collar is properly fitted, the
moving part of the collar will go over the dog’s head,
not under it. This will ensure that the slip tightens
around the dog’s neck only when the lead is pulled, and
loosens as soon as the pull on the lead is reduced.
SIZING SLIP COLLARS
As a basic guideline, the size of the
slip collar chain should be equal to the circumference
of the dog’s head (measured across the ears and under
the throat), plus 2 to 3 inches for larger breeds, and 1
to 2 inches for smaller dogs.
HOW TO MAKE A SLIP
COLLAR
There are several ways to make and
position a slip collar properly. Here is one simple
method:
-
Hold the slip collar by one ring in
your left hand, letting the chain dangle in a straight
line.
-
Take the other ring in your right hand.
-
Work the chain through the ring that
you’re holding in your right hand so it forms a “slip
knot.”
-
Continuing to hold the ring in your
right hand, grab the middle of the slip knot in your
left hand and hold it out, so the collar resembles the
letter “P.” (A slip knot that resembles the number “9”
or “6” is not properly positioned.)
-
Slip this “P” shaped collar over the
dog’s head, so the base of the “P” (the part without the
loop) goes over the top of the head, and the ring at the
bottom of the “P” (the one that will be attached to the
lead) points away from the dog’s right side.
-
Test a slip collar before using it. The
moving part of the chain should brush against the top,
not the bottom, of the stationary ring (the ring that
isn’t attached to the lead.)
SLIP
COLLAR TIPS
-
Never use a slip collar as a dog’s
everyday collar. It is too easy for the rings to become
caught in something, causing the dog to choke.
-
Be sure to remove the dog’s everyday
collar before putting on the slip collar to avoid
injury.
-
Release the tension on the slip collar
immediately after pulling on the leash, so it does not
stay tightened around the dog’s neck.
Pinch Collars - Although pinch (or
prong) collars can be an effective training tool, they
should not be viewed as an owner’s first alternative
when teaching a dog proper behavior. As their name
suggests, these collars have blunt prongs that protrude
inward against the dog’s neck. When the dog pulls, the
prongs exert pressure on the skin, compelling the dog to
stop. A halter-type collar is usually a better choice.
However, a pinch collar may sometimes be your best
option when a dog is an aggressive “puller.”
A pinch collar should only be used when
a dog is closely supervised. A dog that is leashed to a
tie-out should never wear a pinch collar.
Halter-Type Head Collars - The halter
head collar has become very popular as a training tool,
and for good reason: it’s very effective at stopping
unwanted behavior without posing a threat to the safety
of the dog. These collars have two straps, one of which
fits loosely across the base of the muzzle, while the
other rests high atop the neck. When the owner pulls on
the leash, the dog’s head is pulled down or to the side.
At that point, the dog cannot pull on the leash or open
her mouth.
Although the halter head collar looks
like a muzzle, it is not. Unless the owner is pulling on
the leash, a dog wearing this collar is free to open his
mouth wide. This collar does not make the dog
uncomfortable, yet it makes it easy for the owner to
control unwanted behavior, such as jumping up on people,
simply by pulling the leash.
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