Dog Training Method III: Prong Collar

For Dog Training Method III, we will be covering the Prong Collar.  This is one of the training methods viewed by some as inhumane and it absolutely has the potential to be inhumane, but the goal of this article is to educate you on the proper fit and use/function of the Prong collar.  That way, if you are already using this as a training tool, or interesting in trying it, you ensure that you are training in such a way that does not harm your dog and is a viable training method.

---

As I have been mentioning in previous articles, all training tools and collars do come in a variety of price points.  I have included some examples below if you are interested in pursuing this training method.  Keep in mind, you need to read reviews prior to purchasing!  Not all collars are made equal.  Beware of clasps that break or poorly made collars.

**Pictures are also links for purchase if desired**

Herm Sprenger Prong Training Collar

Pettom Gear Chrome Prong Collar

Beloved Pet Prong Training Collar

---

Since this method of training requires specific fit, I think it will be easier to use videos, instead of pictures and text, to best demonstrate how best to fit your dog with a Prong Collar. Below you will find a video that goes into detailed instruction on how to fit the Prong Collar to your dog and resize it as needed. 

---

Once you have your collar correctly fitted, we need to ensure that the use of the Prong Collar is effective and humane.  The biggest difference between Prong Collars and Choke Chains (which we will not be addressing this month) is that Prong Collar creates even pressure around the neck  helping to prevent tracheal damage vs a choke chain that can apply pressure directly on the windpipe potentially causing damage. 

The use of a Prong collar is to mimic the nips that a mother will use on her pups to indicate a behavior is inappropriate.  The corrections from the collar should be short and firm.  To help demonstrate this technique, I have included instructional videos below.

​Videos (Part I & II) of the beginning basics of using a Prong Collar.

---

The main concern always with any training method, but especially with more invasive training tools, is that they are used correctly every time and never used inhumanely.  To prevent this, we recommend to never train when you are:

1. Angry
2. Upset
3. Tired
4. Frusterated
5. Short on time
6. Distracted/trying to multitask

If any one of the above apply to you prior or during a training session, STOP the training session immediately, WALK AWAY from the situation, and only RESUME training when you are in a better emotional/head space.  Ensuring that you are in control and also in the right mind space for training keeps training sessions productive and more importantly safe for you and your canine.

---