by Annette Radford

Created on: August 24, 2008

When I was training dogs we called a "choke collar" a correction chain or a slip collar. If used properly it is a very effective way to train dogs to walk at heel. I have seen it used upside down and on the wrong side, which is cruel to the dog and ineffective as a training measure. Used properly, the correction chain is loose when the dog is in the desired position at the handler's heel. If the dog pulls, a quick tug on the lead puts him or her back in the right position, and he or she receives praise from the handler. Used incorrectly the collar stays tight all the time and does indeed choke the dog. This is why I believe the "choke" collar should not be in the hands of those who don't know how to use it.

The dog which drags on the lead is another matter. Firstly, ask why is the dog lagging behind? Is there a fear issue? Does the dog do it all the time or only when in a busy street, or when meeting other dogs? Is it sheer stubbornness or lack of lead training? Does the dog lack confidence in the handler? All these questions need to be addressed before trying to remedy the problem by use of any correction device.

A correction chain is also useful when teaching other areas of obedience. Again, used properly to reinforce commands it releases as soon as the dog obeys. Good trainers also use rewards to bolster good conduct rather than punish disobedience. Especially with puppies, I start out using food tidbits small bits of grated cheese, tiny pieces of meat, or doggie rewards cut into very small pieces, combined with vocal praise and then gradually, as my relationship with the dog builds, I replace that with vocal approval and a pat. I would still suggest giving a food treat and a bit of play at the end of a training session.

Another alternative is the use of the "gentle trainer". This is a harness which goes around the dog's muzzle and neck. I admit I have never used one, but my vet recommends them. They cannot be used in a cruel manner and give even the least able handler better control of a dog. My aged mother uses one for her frisky Jack Russell.

What about the dog that simply will not obey? There are much kinder methods than cruel collars. Jumping up on people can be fixed with proper use of a correction chain, see a trainer for details. For a dog that barks continually I recommend a water pistol or a collar that sprays a small shot of citronella, similar methods can be used with other bad behaviors like jumping on furniture or tearing washing off the line. Many bad deeds are due to boredom and will diminish, if not disappear entirely, if the dog is taken for regular walks. Toys may also improve your dog's environment and relieve boredom. My "guard" dog is a foxy bitch who barks madly if a stranger comes near our place. The last thing a criminal wants is attention. There is certainly no call for a prong collar with a pet dog. If the dog is so uncontrollable I would suggest that you have the wrong breed for your situation, or maybe a cat or a bird would be a better pet for you.

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