The idea of using a dog choke chain or collar on a pet is controversial to say the least. Some feel it is a useful tool when handling an animal, while others feel the use is completely uncalled for.
You might ask several people and get several different answers. Some believe that a choke device or collar has its place and you may see them being used by professional dog handlers while parading their pure bred around the ring for judging. Many will tell you that if owners trained their dogs properly, there would never be any need for such a device.
Most people will admit that a choke collar can be useful when an animal is undisciplined. However, this is not the purpose of a choke collar and should not be used for this purpose. Choke collars and chains are for training and can be highly effective and safe when used correctly. Setting the choke collar around his neck should your pet that it’s time to give you his attention.
Choke chains and collars come in three general varieties, nylon, chain and prong style and part of the secret to successful use is having a proper fit. Get a measuring tape or simply a piece of string and wrap it around the dog’s neck about an inch behind the ears. Place two fingers under the string for the animals’ comfort and then add another 2 1/2 inches to that. If possible, take your dog with you to the pet store and try several until you get a good fit.
The idea behind a choke training device is to simulate the action of a mother dog when she grasps a naughty pup behind the ears, at the scruff of the neck, for reprimanding. This is why, when used properly, the choke comes up behind the ears of your dog, not around its neck, trachea and esophagus.
Before using the choke chain on your pet, make certain you know how to use it properly. You can seriously harm your dog if you don’t. Make sure that the links move smoothly and don’t catch. The choke chain is for training and no matter how nice you think it looks on Rover, it is not a full time collar. It should go on for training and come off when the training session is done. Under no circumstances should you allow a child near a pet wearing a choke chain.
Your pet should know that when you place the choke collar on him, it has come time for training and some fun time together with you. He should become attentive and focused on you and what you want from him.
The animal should be close to your side in the heel position as you walk along. When the dog needs correction, the choke collar should be quickly pulled up behind and ears, and a sharp verbal correction such as “NO!” expressed in a firm voice. The tension on the choke should then immediately be released. The quick tension behind the ears and the verbal reprimand gets the animal’s attention and tells it that it did something you didn’t like. Dogs are eager to please and with patience and consistent training, they will come around to understand what is and isn’t okay.
If your dog is “hacking”, then you are handling the choke collar incorrectly and you need more practice in getting the pulling and releasing motion down properly. Remember, you want the training to be fun for the both of you. You don’t want your pet to come away with damaged vocal chords. These devices should never be used as a form of punishment. Dogs naturally aim to please us and it usually doesn’t take much more than a loud noise or sharp command from you to stop them from misbehaving.
If you are patient and loving with your pet, you will have a long, happy relationship and a well-behaved dog. A dog choke collar or chain can be a useful tool when training if used properly. While you’re training don’t forget to give plenty of affection and praise to your star pupil.
Dog choke devices are an effective control tool when used correctly. Pet Naturals collar options include these and many other types of collars and leashes for your favorite canine.
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