Leerburg questions & answers on prong collars

Leerburg Questions & Answers
on Prong Collars and
Dominant Dog Collars

My prong collar just doesn't look like it's on right, even though it is sitting at the correct spot on his neck. Could you describe how to properly size and put one on?
Can the prong collar be left on during the day and night or must it be removed after every time using it?
I'm unsure of what size prong to buy my doberman, as she is at the end of the small sized one. Could you help make a suggestion?
My dominant dog collar keeps slipping. What is the best way to determine what size to purchase?
My dog is dog aggressive and I have questions about a prong collar I bought awhile back. I think it may be too big and I'm not sure if I should just use a dominant dog collar.
A prong collar was recommended to us and after seeing your site I realize that the collar is too loose. I have taken a few links out but don't want it to be too tight. What can we do to adjust the size of the collar so that it would stay behind the ears as it is indicated on your photographs?
Do you know if the medium prong collar is available w/ the loop?
What size prong collar should I order or do you think I should use one?
I am about to get a 12 week old Cardigan Welsh Corgi male. Would the micro prong collar be correct for this breed, and then just add prongs as he grows?
My dog is between link sizes and I'm not sure what to do. What do you suggest?
Is it necessary to use the dominant dog collar with the prong or could I use a martingale lead?
The prongs are I bought are too big, do you think a medium would work better?
We have a pomapoo that weighs around 4 lbs and has a very small neck. Do you think your size small will adjust down enough to use for her?
I understand the dominant dog collar can take the aggression out of the dog by lifting the dog up but do you do this when the prong collar is ALSO attached or only by itself? Also, on fur saver collars, how do you measure them for a proper fit?
Our trainer doesn't allow prongs and likes gentle leaders. What are your thoughts?
I was going to order Cesar Millan's "Illusion" collar but my friend recommended I get your prong collar. I'm not good with reading about how to do this or that and I just need something easy to use. I read a couple of places about how some dogs got out of the prong which scares me.
I have a 5 year old 3 lb. 4 oz. Yorkshire Terrier. Can you recommend a training collar for this size dog please?
I was wondering if you had any immediate thoughts on martingale flat collars. On the equipment section of your Basic Dog Obedience, you don't mention these. Are these effective and humane?
In o ne of the DVDs, Ed said to put on all of the collars during training sessions... Which of the three should be senior (closest to the jaw, then next and on the bottom?)?
How do you know when the prong collar is too tight?
Is the dominant dog collar designed to replace the fur saver collar? My club recommended a fur saver rather then a nylon flat buckle collar. Would the dominant dog collar replace that as well? Aren't they basically the same thing?
I recently purchased the SS Buckle Prong. My dog is between two link sizes. What should be done about in-between sizes? Perhaps she will gain more weight, and the collar will fit better when she does. In the meantime, will any injury or bad habits occur if the collar is lower?
I have a Maltese 5yr old and I have a prong collar for training. Is there a correct way the prongs should face when on the dogs neck?
When my dog is in the house (which is where most of her aggressive behavior is exhibited), we have drag lines on both dogs and the muzzle and a regular buckle collar. For disciplinary purposes, would you recommend that she also wear a prong collar or the dominant dog collar?
I was wondering if there are any special considerations for the breed or other short hair dogs and your collars. Is there such a thing as too much shorter than the string measurement?
I have two pekingese dogs and have breath problems because of their 'pushed inside' nose. Can I use prong collar in this breed? Or is there something else, more appropriate?
I was wondering your opinion of using a DD collar for someone that is smaller in stature but has a big dog that pulls? Can one replace a pinch used for pulling, with a DD collar?
I know the collar is to fit snug behind the ears but to get the collar so it stays up there, it seems like the collar is too tight on her. What are your thoughts?
My dog whines and whimpers when she sees another dog. I tried using the DD collar and she became quiet (probably because she was unable to breath). Is using a DD collar for this a good idea or will it damage her confidence, drives, etc., in the long run?
I t feels like we are between link sizes. Due to the snugness… I am finding it difficult to attach the links. This has me slightly worried. How does one determine when to add another link?

Question:

Hi Ed,

I've read everything I can on prong collars and am trying to learn the art of using one without doing damage to my dog(s) or myself. My collar never sets down on the dog's neck like it should. It doesn't look right compared to the pictures I see of everyone else's. There seems to be too much space between the neck and the collar (I don't mean loose) but instead something's just not quite right. I have noticed a definite difference between my male Doberman's responsiveness. I don't have to give half dozen corrections on this collar compared to my choke chains but I still know something is wrong. Could you go about describing how to size one properly and to put it on the dog correctly???

Robin

ANSWER:

A prong collar is meant to fit very snug when the collar is right behind the ears and behind the jawbone. There should be no slack. The collar should be snug. It is not meant to be pulled off the head by coming over the ears, eyes and nose. To take it off a link is manually disconnected.

How to Fit a Prong Collar

eBOOK

Question:

Hello Ed

Just to say I purchased a Prong Collar from Leerburg a time ago, but I waited a bit for the pup to get a bit of age on him before using it, now he is just 9 months old.

It is a great collar and keeps the pup steady and controlled with no stress to him of pulling back like I did on a chain collar.

One question I read your article on fitting it must be 20 times, and I see it is fairly in a firm position, The pup did not like it being put on, I suppose my lack of expertise in putting it on may have pulled it a bit.

Can this collar be left on the pup during the day and night or must it be removed after every time using it?

Also thanks for the Brilliant Quality Leather Collars and Leashes I bought and for the most informative DVDs.

Last of all the Forum which we learn so much, at times with a little bit of misunderstanding, but it is the best forum on the Web for GS's.

Regards,
Steve
Belgium

Answer:

Steve,

Thanks for the kind words.

We don’t recommend leaving the collar on 24/7.

There is nothing wrong with using MARKERS and a food treat to put the collar on. In fact put it on –Mark it – reward it – then take it off. Then do it again until you desensitize the collar going on. Do this 8 or 9 times a day.

Prong Collars

Question:

I was hoping you would be able to give me some advice. I would like to buy from your website a Stainless Steel Prong Collar for my 14 month old female Doberman. I have measured her neck and it is 13" but that is snug. I was going to purchase the Small Prong (up to 13") but was a bit concerned that I would then not have any flexibility if it was too small. I then thought about the Medium prong (up to 19") but was then concerned that it still might be to big even after taking all the links out. Could you please advise me which one to purchase?

Kind Regards
Caroline

Answer:

I had Dobermans for MANY years; I always used a small prong but purchased extra links.

http://leerburg.com/prong.htm if you scroll past the prong collars, there is a drop down box with a buy now button where you can purchase links separately.

Hope this helps.

Another Question:

Thanks for your advice on the prong collar. We have also purchased a couple of dominant dog collars from your web site at different sizes but they all seem to keep slipping down when we use it. Could you suggest a size that would best fit a female doberman aged 15 months?

Kind Regards,
Caroline

Answer:

We have a chart with measuring directions and size recommendations. This goes by neck size, not breed and age.

Dominant Dog Collar

Question:

Hi Ed,

I have a question for ya...

I bought a prong collar from Petsmart a long time ago. I am just now starting to try and learn to use it since Levi is having so much attitude with other dogs. By the time I take the links out to get a snug fit around the upper neck. There are only a about 6 links left fitting the dog primarily on one side of his neck. I can't believe this is a correct fit and even with that being said it still won't stay up on the neck, it always falls down. I'm trying to decide which collar to buy from you, the dominant dog collar or a leather choke to work with Levi due to his serious aggressiveness towards other dogs. I told the forum yesterday that the prong seemed to increase his drive and anger towards the other dogs. Anyhow, I guess the dominant dog collar is to be used with the prong?? Or should I just use it alone since I have no training issues with him other than the dog issue? Is the prong I got from Petsmart not working right? What do you suggest I do?

Thanks,
Robbin

Answer:

The dominant dog collar is suggested as a back up to the prong. If you are using the dominant dog collar as a correction collar it can be worn alone.

It sounds like the prong you have is the really large one which is why you only have a few links in it, I would recommend a medium size for a GSD.

Here is the article on how to correctly fit prongs http://leerburg.com/fit-prong.htm

I like to have all the tools I need in my toolbox, so I would suggest a prong and a dominant dog collar.

Establishing Pack Structure with the Family Pet

Question:

Hello Ed,

Warm greetings to you all and thank you for your wonderful visual website about the pinch/prong collars! Five weeks ago my husband and I adopted our first dog from a rescue group. She was sentenced to death because she was too fearful while waiting in the shelter. Thanks to Hopes Haven in Salem, Oregon, her life was saved and she is very affectionate toward all people & animals and very submissive. However, we turned out not to be the strongest pack leaders so on the walk she has been pulling hard. We signed up for a training class and during the class the trainers recommended to use the prong/pinch collar on her. They let us try and seemed better so we purchased the collar. When we got home we wanted to learn more about the collars and it took a lot of time before we found your great website.

The trainer put the collar on Stella so I did the same the next day to walk & run with her since she has a lot of energy – two years young, looks like a mix of black lab & pit and weighs about 46 lbs. After I ran with her and then saw your website I realized that the collar was too loose and slid down on her neck and ended up pretty much where her regular collar was. I removed one link and walked & run with her and the same thing happened – it slid down her neck. When I removed one more link, I was pretty much choking her and could not really put it on her. It is a bit frustrating because I do not want to hurt her but at the same time I want to collar to be in a proper position so that we can control her pulling. What can we do to adjust the size of the collar so that it would stay behind the ears as it is indicated on your photographs?

I will be very grateful for your feedback as soon as possible so that we can do the right thing.

Thank you very much for understanding and I look forward to hear from you at the right time!

With much love, joy, peace & gratitude,
Fondly,
Pavla

Answer:

I think you still need to take a link out. As it settles into the fur, it should fit properly. For it to fit correctly, it will seem quite tight when first putting it on but be patient. Don’t project a feeling of feeling sorry or worry about hurting her just put this on her matter of factly.

If it’s sliding down her neck, taking out one more link is not going to hurt her.

Best of luck with her, she’s a cutie!

Question:

I am finding your website as a wonderful resource. I do have a couple of questions regarding the prong you sell before I make a purchase.

I am very particular about the lead attachment. I will need a Medium sized collar but see that your website only picture the medium collar having a swivel type link for the lead attachment. I am looking for a medium collar with a "loop" connection point (exactly like what is pictured for your "micro prong" collar). I hope that isn't confusing. Do you know if the medium prong collar is available w/ the loop?

Thank you for your time,
Adam

Answer:

The prong collars are available as pictured on our website. The only size available with 2 "O" rings is the micro.

Question:

Hi,

Just wanted to let you know that I did my first AI using your AI kit and DVD and it was successful!

We took our Mastiff yesterday for x-rays confirmed it.

Thanks so much for your website and useful information.

My English Mastiffs are 190 lbs and 215 lbs. They are not aggressive at all, but when I take them anywhere they pull me around a lot. I am using a choke collar now.

I was thinking of using one of your prong collars. Their neck size is 25 inches and 25 1/2 inches. What size prong collar should I order or do you think I should use one?

Should I also use the dominant collar with it? What size?

Thanks,
Mary

Answer:

Thanks for the kind words, and congratulations on the upcoming litter.

I would most definitely recommend prong collars for dogs of this size. I would use a large or extra large collar. Please read this article about how to properly fit a prong collar. It fits up high on the neck.

We do recommend the dominant dog collar as a safely back up with prongs, here is the chart to select the size based on your dogs measurements.

If you have any questions about the sizing I would suggest you call our office during regular business hours and one of the girls will be glad to help you out.

I hope this helps.

Question:

I am about to get a 12 week old Cardigan Welsh Corgi male. Would the micro prong collar be correct for this breed, and then just add prongs as he grows? I want to start him out with it and use it gently rather than start with something else and switch.

Thank you for the information.

Mary

Answer:

I would think for a Cardi a small link collar would be the best fit as an adult. The micro would be ok for a young puppy, but Cardigans are not really that small, and their fur is pretty thick. We have Pembroke Welsh Corgis and if we need a prong, I use the small link and I believe Pembrokes tend to be a bit smaller than Cardigans.

Question:

I own a stainless steel medium prong (from Leerburg). My shepard/ basenji mix is now grown and she is definitely between links as sizing goes. If I remove the link to allow the collar to sit high, it is so tight I can not fit even a half of a pinkie finger between the prong and neck, even with effort. If I leave it, it is definitely too loose and does nothing for control, sliding around. I would like to know if you have a link that is a half-size, or perhaps a link for the small collar might fit onto the medium collar, and if so, how I might receive one of these links?

Thank you!

Sincerely,
Andrea

Answer:

We don’t have smaller links for that size collar, they are a standard size.

I would put it on so it fits snugly, and I think you will find as the dog wears it for a few minutes that it will not be as tight as when you first put it on.

You could always go to the next smaller collar size, and try that if this doesn’t work for you.

Question:

I read thru your site and still have a question.

Must I use the dominant collar with the pronged collar, or will a martingale collar suffice?

I MUST secure a prong ...I have a lower back injury that is aggravated immensely by pulling behavior (I am still not able to walk my three dogs as I am on the mend--thank goodness I have a large yard and dogs who delight in running thru it for exercise).

I have a 35 lb Shiba Inu who is quite strong. I need to train him not to pull and the prong has been recommended by my chiropractor. I have three shibas total that I like to walk together, but I am willing to walk separately for a period while training each of them.

The other two are smaller (only around 22 lbs each).

...these guys are known for slipping their collars and chasing prey...few standard training methods work in this regard. Even the Mid-Atlantic Shiba Rescue recommends that I choose any trainer carefully due to Shibas reacting negatively to most training approaches, with positive reinforcement being the most successful. Small food treats seem to be the best incentive.

Safety and prevention of escape are my number one concern... I am working on recall...the female is excellent...the largest male comes sometimes....and the youngest (male) never comes when called (he is the one who escapes past the baby gate whenever the opportunity arises). We live about three blocks from a major hwy...so I watch them all closely.

Again, can I use the martingale??? It seems to work the best in deterring slipping out of it.

Arlene

Answer:

No A martingale will not work here. You would then have two leashes to handle. This would cause problems - they would tangle and you would have a mess.

Use the prong with the dominant dog collar.

Fact is - if I had your medical issues I would be using a remote collar on my dog that pulled. This would be so much better than a prong.

Use a Dogtra 175NCP or Dogtra 200NCP. Cindy (my other half) uses a Dogtra 200 on her dogs.

Here is the DVD that explains in detail on how to do it.

Question:

Hi there, my name is Emma and I'm sorry to be a pest,I have just bought 2 extra large prong collars for my great danes who are approximately 8 months old. The problem is I can not physically remove any more links without hurting my dog but when they have been wearing them a while out walking they slip down. Do you think it's best to swap them for the medium prong collar as my instructor has advised? This size seems to stay put better.

Regards,
Emma

P.S. As I really want them asap could I order online a smaller size if this is appropriate and get a refund on the two I send back? As I don't want to have to wait on shipping to Scotland both ways.

Answer:

For a Great Dane I would probably go to a medium – we have a Q&A on prong collars. Most people go with too large of a prong collar.

I believe you bought them from us. As long as we can sell them to another customer as a new product you can return them. All it would cost is the freight back.

Question:

We have a pomapoo that weighs around 4 lbs and has a very small neck.

We just completed 10 weeks of dog training whereby she learned nothing. She thinks she is the pack leader.

We want to repeat the dog training classes using a prong collar hoping that we will get her attention this time.

Do you think your size small will adjust down enough to use for her?

Thanks!
Sandy

Answer:

We have what is called a micro prong. I would suggest the ‘mini-micro’ size for your dog.

A regular small prong would be much too big, by the time you took enough links out so it would fit her you would have no links left.

Question:

Hi Cindy,

I want to order a prong collar and dominant dog collar but wanted to ask a question first. My main trouble is pulling and excited exuberance and/or dog to dog aggression (depending on the other dog).

I understand the dominant dog collar can take the aggression out of the dog by lifting the dog up but do you do this when the prong collar is ALSO attached or only by itself? I'm confused by that and couldn't find the answer on the website.

Also, on fur saver collars, how do you measure them for a proper fit?

Thanks,
Karen

Answer:

The common sense answer for me would be to use the dominant dog collar separately, and use the fur saver or a buckle collar as your back up for the prong. Or you could get 2 dominant dog collars (one for the safety back up and one to use independently)

The fur saver collars are measured from outside one o-ring to the outside of the other o-ring. Please keep in mind when you are selecting a specific size fur saver for your dog, that the collar must be big enough to slip over the dogs head and ears.

The office staff can help you select a size based on your dogs’ neck measurements if you need assistance. 715.235.6502 Monday – Friday 8-5 Central time

Cindy

Question:

Hi Cindy,

Thank you so much for your very quick reply.

No, the instructor does not allow prong collars in her class. She likes the gentle leader and feels she has had success with it. Her daughter is training her new dog in this class and she is using a gentle leader on him. I gather this is a personal preference issue among dog folks. But, I am more prone to your thinking. I think we will only have a problem if something excites Dante enough for him to lunge as he did yesterday and with his strength, that is precisely when he/I could get hurt, (I'm really more concerned about hurting him and turning him off to agility work).

I'm glad I wrote you right away so that I have a week to figure this out.
I'm inclined to think that the Gentle Leader may be useful in correcting constant pulling on walks, but so is the prong. I do worry about a 75 pound lunging jerk on a neck. I'm leaning toward persuading my son to work with me this week on getting Dante used to the leader, just in case I have to use it. I think I will then talk to the instructor about what I think was going on in Dante's mind yesterday and of my concerns about injuring him. I can take the leader with me, but only use it if absolutely necessary. If trainer/dog teams work individually, I will choose not to use the leader. After next Sunday, my son will take charge again and hopefully, it will be a moot issue. I know I am a neophyte at all this, but my instinct says it isn't worth the risk of physical or psychological injury. And personally, I'd rather have something pinch my skin evenly around my neck than having my neck jerked to one side.

One other question, my son has used the word "OK" as his release word. He uses it for all situations, from releasing his dog from a "Wait" when crossing a busy street to releasing the brothers from their down-stay to resume their play. That is where the problem lay yesterday. Dante was just responding in a way that has been accepted in other situations. And because my son has worked hard on improving his drive, when he enthusiastically says, "OK," Dante responds just as enthusiastically. Would it make any sense to use a different word, like, perhaps, "Go" to direct him in his agility work or would it just further confuse the situation for him?

Thanks again,
Marilyn

Answer:

Dogs can have more than one release word, but I don't really see any benefit to it unless the word chosen is used a lot in random conversation and it may be confusing to the dog.

I use the word 'break' as my dog's release word in agility.

Cindy

Thanks:

Thanks, Cindy,

I'll pass this along to my son. I often catch myself using 'OK' too often in my conversation when the dog is under my care, not sure if my son does. I did encourage him to use a different word in the beginning, but he still chose 'OK'. I haven't seen any real evidence of confusion, though, probably because of the tone of voice we use when saying it as a command.

I do see value in using words in agility that are clear, e.g., your word, 'break'. In fact, I think one of the most important things I have learned from our time with the dogs is the need for clear signals and non-ambiguity.
Different from when I was raising my children and I was consciously building their vocabulary by using varying words. I have to really watch myself now.
It's especially tricky because they aren't my dogs and I have limited periods of time with them, but I have the "grandmother" role of caring for both my son's and my daughter's dogs when they can't. The two are being raised a bit differently and a few of their command words are different. I try to be consistent with what the owner does with their dog. Keeps me on my toes. (Good, I don't have 6 kids with dogs, huh?)

Incidentally, my son and I took Dante for his first, (and I guess last), walk on the Gentle Leader yesterday. After only a couple of blocks with Dante pawing at his face or rolling on a lawn attempting to get it off, my son pulled it off of him, announcing, 'He doesn't like it, I don't like it, we aren't going to use it.' So I guess that's that. Now, I have the unpleasant task of explaining this to the instructor on Sunday. Dante is his dog so he gets to call the shots. He's always been negative about using the gentle leader. He is comfortable with the prong collar however, and wants to purchase the electric one. I think what's clear is that he trusts what the Frawley's say more than he trusts anyone else. : )

Thanks again for your help,
Marilyn

Question:

Hi Cindy,

I have two dogs - west highland terrier and pit-bull-coon hound mix (88 pounds). I use the gentle leader and pretty much it works and one time he got loose I think because my husband didn't attach it right, fortunately it had a second mini leash that connected to his collar and I held on to it. Because of that I always have this fear now and it makes walks torture. The little dog Snowflake, gets Bear more excited by her behavior. He does occasionally try to lunge at the cows as we are passing them. Bear is fear-aggressive. I was going to order Cesar Millan's "Illusion" collar but my friend recommended I get your prong collar. I'm not good with reading about how to do this or that and I just need something easy to use. I read a couple of places in one of your articles about some who's dog got out of the prong which scares me.

Also, Bear has seasonal allergies. He is on prednisone every summer but we're well into September and he's still on it with such itchy skin. He cut himself out in the back woods and keeps licking it raw. We took him to the vet and they put him on antibiotics and the collar so he can't lick but the wound looked healed so I let him keep it off last night and he licked it raw again I think because it's very dry looking. Is there an ointment to use? I noticed you have a book on allergies. Is that a real helpful book?

Thank you,
MaryKay

Answer:

Your dog won’t get loose if you use a back up collar like we recommend.
There’s a free video on this page that gives information on how to fit the collar and use the back up collar.

The allergy book is helpful, but I also recommend you evaluate the diet and vaccine history of your dog. Many times what appear to be seasonal allergies are either a sensitivity to an ingredient in a commercial processed diet or a symptom of Vaccinosis (or a combination of all of those ) Skin conditions are a big signal that the dog’s system is having problems and most vets want to suppress this with antibiotics and steroids. This doesn’t solve the problem and typically makes it worse over time.

Here is some suggested reading. Read this article on feeding a raw diet. It’s a work in progress but there is a lot of good information there.

I would also recommend these books, Natural Nutrition for Dogs & Cats and Raw Dog Food.

You can also go to our Feeding Dogs Page for a list of articles and books that will be helpful to you.

For information on vaccinations and the problems they cause please read our vaccinosis article. I ask that everyone do their own research and weigh the benefits and the risks of vaccinating their animals. We do not vaccinate our dogs, cats or horses here and will not sell puppies to people who insist on vaccinating and feeding kibble.

I would also recommend these 2 books, Shock to the System and Vaccine Guide for Dogs & Cats.

For more information on natural health care and homeopathic treatment of your dogs (and cats), I highly recommend Homeopathic Care for Cats & Dogs and Natural Health for Dogs and Cats.

I hope this helps.

Cindy

Question:

Hello, I have a 5 year old ..3 lb. 4 oz Yorkshire Terrier. Can you recommend a training collar for this size dog please?

Thank you,
Forrest

Answer:

I believe the only collar I have that would fit a dog that small would be our MINI micro prong. It is for dogs under 5 pounds.

Cindy

Question:

Hello!

I've gotten so much out of your site and the Basic Dog Obedience DVD.
It has helped me so much with my 18 month old rescue Weimaraner. I also got a hold of "Don Sullivan's Perfect Dog" (theperfectdog.com) and while I appreciate the plastic 'kinder gentler' prong collar that comes with this, I found his training advice to be less helpful than what I learned from your DVDs. In particular was his emphasis on never using treats. Joe and I have been working on retrieving work and have been experiencing particular difficulty getting him to reliably "drop." Don's advice on this was to pop the dog on the underside of the mouth. This was absolutely ineffective with Joe. So then I went back to the marker training and the treat bag and it took all of 5 rounds and he got it just fine.

I had a collar question, I was wondering if you had any immediate thoughts on martingale flat collars. On the equipment section of your Basic Dog Obedience, you don't mention these. Are these effective and humane?

Thank you.
Reuben

Answer:

In our opinion, a martingale collar is really nothing more than a flat collar that the dog can't slip. You see a lot of these on sight hounds, because of their unique structure of having a head smaller than their neck.
They can get out of regular collars very easily.

I use a variety of collars on my dogs, flat collar, prong collar and remote.
I don't feel that there is one PERFECT collar out there, they each are used as needed according to the dog's drive, temperament and level of training.

I hope this helps.

Cindy

Question:

Hello Cindy,

I have a 2.3 year old "trained" German Shepard that need some re-training, two bad habits jumping up & trying to drag you where he wants to go (like into open door in house or auto).

We got him from an older couple that couldn't keep him any longer.

We've bought 3 of your DVDs (all excellent) and we've picked out some more for later. We've bought a Dogtra E collar, and a quick release prong collar Extra heavy. Currently ordered your Leerburg Dominant Dog Collar ....waiting for delivery some time next week.

My question is.... One of the DVDs Ed said to put on all of the collars during training sessions... Which of the three should be senior (closest to the jaw, then next and on the bottom??)

Thanks, "LEE"

PS. You're correct, Petsmart tried to talk us out of all of the above training aids

Answer:

If you go to this page and go a bit more than half way down you’ll see a photo of a dog with a dominant dog collar and a prong on. I would place the ecollar slightly below those. It is also possible to put the prong on the top (closest to jaw) and then the DD collar and then the ecollar lowest. Each dog’s neck is slightly different so those top 2 can be switched around without a problem. They should always be above any other collar you have on the dog though.

I hope this helps.

Cindy

Question:

Hi Cindy,

The prong collar; how do you know when its too tight? I took a link out tonight because Bruno is so furry right now and it seemed to keep falling too low on the neck. Also, I'm going to order a dominant dog collar to use with the prong collar; does it have to be used with the lead through both places on the prong and also on the dominant dog collar? Thanks for your time.

Lori
Indiana

Answer:

We have a section on the website that explains how to use the collar, how to make sure it’s properly fitted and how to use the back up collar. You can attach your lead to one or both places on the prong, and on the live ring of the DD collar.

Question:

Hi,

Is the dominant dog collar designed to replace the fur saver collar? I was interested in purchasing a prong collar for some pulling issues I am having with my seven month old GSD. I wanted to use the dominant dog collar as a backup for the prong. My dog is not aggressive to people or animals although he does pull to get to other dogs to investigate/play. I already have your Pack Structure DVD which I like but I need a little extra help. Also my club recommended a fur saver rather then a nylon flat buckle collar. Would the dominant dog collar replace that as well? Aren't they basically the same thing?

Thanks for all your help.
Dave

Answer:

The dominant dog collar is either for a back up to a prong or for use in controlling a dog when he chooses to behave in a dominant manner.

A fur saver and a flat collar are not used for corrections at all, they are merely collars to hook a leash to or to attach tags to. I don’t use fur savers or flat collars (either nylon or leather) as correction collars.

Cindy

Question:

I recently purchased the SS Buckle Prong w/ DD collar from your website. Before I ordered, I measured Sadie (a 15 month old Doberman) using instructions from your ebook on proper fit/position for a prong collar. Her neck measured 14 inches. I knew I would have to remove several links to get the correct fit since the collar measures 17 inches. I wanted the buckle collar because I have trouble with arthritis in my thumbs, so pinching the links to attach the collar is sometimes painful.

I received the collars today, removed three links which seemed to be a good fit, and we went for a walk. She is fairly well-behaved (she's a rescue dog), but does occasionally pull away from me when she sees a squirrel. Today she pulled only once. The collar worked beautifully; however, during the course of the walk, the collar slipped down somewhat, reaching the position your website shows as too low. When we got back home, I removed one more link (now a total of four), but when I fastened the collar this time in the proper position, she choked, and the prongs seemed already to be pinching.

What should be done about in-between sizes? Perhaps she will gain more weight, and the collar will fit better when she does. In the meantime, will any injury or bad habits occur if the collar is lower? I am using the dominant collar as backup, so even if the looser prong collar gives way, she will still be under my control.

I have enjoyed reading your ebooks and perusing your website. My last obedience training experience was thirty years ago with another female Dobbie (as intelligent as Sadie is and when I was younger and more nimble) using William Koehler's methods. I have found the addition of treats to be effective, even if Koehler may be turning in his grave.

Thank you in advance for any advice you can give.
Louise

Answer:

It's possible that your dog will continue to grow and she'll fill out enough for a correct fit. If you are getting the desired results you may be ok with a less than perfect neck placement. Growing dogs are always a bit tricky; my young Malinois (16 months) is between sizes as well so we just make do while he's growing.

Cindy

Question:

Hi,

I have a Maltese 5yr old and I have a prong collar for training. Is there a correct way the prongs should face when on the dogs neck? i.e. towards me?

Thanks
James

Answer:

We have a detailed article on how to put on a prong collar, and make sure it fits properly.

I hope this helps.

Cindy

Question:

Hello Cindy,

We are in the process of ordering a muzzle and I was speaking with the ladies at your office. They suggested I contact you about my question on collars.

I have a German Shepherd and have just adopted a Ridgeback Shepherd mix. The German Shepherd is not accepting the new addition and has attacked him several times. She is wearing a cloth muzzle now when they are together, but we are ordering a plastic or wire for her.

When she is in the house (which is where most of her aggressive behavior is exhibited), we have drag lines on both dogs and the muzzle and a regular buckle collar. For disciplinary purposes, would you recommend that she also wear a prong collar or the dominant dog collar? She does not seems to have a problem with the prong in terms of reacting to it. My thought was that the dominant dog collar might be more comfortable (when not in use) and also not have her be as aware that she has it on and easier for us as she goes in and out (and I don't like to send her outside in the yard with a prong collar on. But I also don't want to use a stronger correction than needed.

Your advice would be appreciated.

Thanks,
JoAnne

Answer:

I think I would recommend a dominant dog collar for in the house.

I like to use a prong for walks if the dog is a puller, with a dominant dog collar as a back up.

Cindy

Question:

Your staff has been helpful, but they suggested I contact you directly with regard to buying a 2nd dominant dog collar for a Doberman stray, they mentioned you used to breed them, I picked up last year,

http://www.flickr.com/photos/25276556@N05/3284791077/

I purchased a 13" dominant dog collar from your online store (as well as a video or two) and am pleased that it works as advertised with one slight issue, it's too long despite following the directions, measuring with string, and I am seeking to correct that mistake by ordering something ~2" shorter. However, even when pulled tight on him in the proper location, it slides down his coat on the slightest suggestion over the top lumbar vertebrae down to his shoulder blades, the base of his neck is softer and smaller in diameter than right behind the skull so the collar seems to seek that area once it slides past the top vertebrae. Obviously it becomes completely ineffective compared to what it does so well when in the proper position.

I am very hesitant to order something too short for him and, while I'm sure I could get one that was tight enough to lock into place, I'm concerned that he would practically be in a half choke to keep it there with as slick as his fur is. The one I have only has ~1" of slack when properly adjusted and under slight tension (as you show in many of your videos), but up to 3" between the rings when pulled taught in a proper front foot lift correction. The flesh compresses quite a bit and perhaps that's why my initial string measurement prior to ordering didn't end up panning out. I end up seeing a rabbit or cat before he does and manually lifting the collar into place, taking all the slack out and preparing for his high prey drive overreaction (which has been getting better and better thanks to the collar, thank you). In this function it works quickly, without hurting him, and immediately shakes him off target but you can see where he quickly learned that my attempting to place the collar behind the skull means there's something to anxious about in the area.

I was wondering if there are any special considerations for the breed or other short hair dogs and your collars. Is there such a thing as too much shorter than the string measurement? Right now, without compressing him, I can measure him at 13.5" high on the throat and right behind the skull (he is a small 55lb Doberman) and, when loose, the nylon / cotton between the rings on the collar measures 12.5". It should work, but his flesh just lets it slide right down to his shoulders under most conditions and is never in place for when I really need it. I don't want to order a 10" or 11" collar without getting the right advice first.

Respectfully,
Shannon

Answer:

The coat doesn’t really matter for the dominant dog collar, but based on your description I would think the 11” collar would be a better size than the 13”. If that one doesn’t fit, you can exchange it for an even smaller size. You may want to keep the leash and collar with no slack at all, place the collar up high on his neck when you walk him and keep a very slight tension on the leash so it can’t slide down.

The good thing is that the more you use the collar, the less you should have to use it as your dog learns to restrain himself.

Cindy

Question:

Dear Cindy,

I have bought and watched all videos on dog training. I have two pekingese dogs and as you already know this breed has breath problems because of their 'pushed inside' nose. Can I use prong collar in this breed? Or is there something else, more appropriate in order to not cause any problems with their breathing?

Thank you very much,
Jenny

Answer:

You can use a prong collar with a Pekingese. It actually is less restrictive on their breathing than other types of collars.

I hope this helps.

Cindy

Question:

Greetings Cindy,

Really appreciate all your help you guys give us. I was wondering your opinion of using a DD collar for someone that is smaller in stature but has a big dog that pulls. Historically I would automatically use a pinch. Can one replace a pinch used for pulling, with a DD collar. P.S. I really enjoyed the video on proper sizing of the DD Collar.

James

Answer:

The pinch is a better tool for pulling, the DD collar is more useful for cases of aggression or situations that cause a dog to get over stimulated with a prong/pinch.

Cindy

Question:

Afternoon,

I have purchased 3 of your DVDs and am very pleased with them. Question I have is the proper fit of the prong collar. I have a 16 month old 90 lb spaded female Shepherd and have been working with her since I got her at 2 months old. My question is that I know the collar is to fit snug behind the ears but to get the collar so it stays up there, it seems like the collar is to tight on her. Its like I can't place my fingers under it. I have the large collar so would that be the proper fit. When we walk her front legs are past my legs. Is that considered walking out to far out in front of me. She just doesn't seem to want to stay right next to me. I have also the E-collar and have tried that but she seems to walk fine for a little and then like she has lost her concentration on what she's suppose to do. Also I had taken her to an obedience class when she was about 5-6 months old and used the prong collar and the instructor had us positioning the collar with the rings on the back of the dogs head. I see that you have the rings positioned on the side of the dogs neck. If that’s correct, and I walk my dog on the right side of me, I should then have the rings on the left side of her neck?

One other thing is that my neighbor guy has her brother, and she gets so excited when ever she gets near the guy whether its with his dog or alone, that she urinates. Is this because she's being submissive to him? She doesn't do that around other people.

Thank you for your time.

Cheryl

Answer:

You are not supposed to be able to fit your fingers under a properly fit prong. Here is the information on how to fit the collar.

I don’t use the large size prong on any of our dogs, the links are much too large. I might use the large prong on a very BIG St. Bernard or Mastiff, but would use a medium on most German Shepherds. I use the small or medium on my own dogs and add the number of links necessary for the proper fit. Whether the rings or on the back of the dog’s neck, if it’s fit properly and the dog has a clear understanding of what you expect it shouldn’t make that much difference.

What you are describing is submissive urination. You can do a search on our website for more information on that. I would direct you to the search function in the upper left corner of the website If you type in your key words it will guide you to articles, Q & A’s and posts on our forum.

Cindy

Question:

Hi Cindy,

I just read the weekly newsletter published today and related to the Q/A on the guy who's dog whines and whimpers when she sees another dog and I do not allow her to go since I do not allow her to meet and greet other dogs. My dog (14 months old now) does the same thing, but she is very loud and it sounds like someone is trying to kill her. Her lunging at another dog (all of this occurs on sidewalks) has diminished where I implemented your earlier recommendations to me; however, this vocalization is quite frustrating. I tried to administer a physical correction (hard and soft via prong and e-collars), but that just makes her even louder and more anxious. Just yesterday, I decided to try using the DD collar I have on her as a back-up. She indeed became quiet (probably because she was unable to breath). My question: is using a DD collar for this a good idea or will it damage her confidence, drives, etc., in the long run?

Thanks again,
Jeffrey

Answer:

Every dog is different so it’s hard to say what the long term repercussions would be from using the DD collar. It may be just fine. I’d prefer to use markers to reinforce good behavior over corrections for this. If it doesn’t work, you can always go to a physical correction later.

I’ve found that dogs usually vocalize because they are anxious, and using physical means to stop it usually adds more anxiety.

I’d worry about damaging the relationship, more than damaging her drives. Like I said before, if you’ve tried other things and given them a real chance (not just once or twice) and they don’t work at all then try something else. This is one of those cases where you have to use your knowledge of your dog and your instincts to know what’s best for the situation. I always start with the least “offensive” way (for lack of a better word) and go from there.

Cindy

Question:

Hello Cindy!

I just spoke with the personnel at your office to complete our video and orbee ball order. We’re very excited to receive them!

After reading through numerous Q & A`s on your website; I am understanding that it is better for the prong collar to be very snug, so that it remains in the correct position (behind ears and at jaw line), rather then be loose and have it slip down.

As several other dog owners are experiencing, it feels like we are between link sizes. Due to the snugness… I am finding it difficult to attach the links. This has me slightly worried.

How does one determine when to add another link… Sigma is a 9 month old rottie and has lots of growing to do.

Thank you for answering this question.

Have a fantastic day!!!

Jennifer
Ontario, Canada

Answer:

Hi Jennifer,

When you are dealing with a growing dog, you just have to be prepared for the fact that there will be times that the fit isn’t perfect. I add another link when it becomes impossible to close the collar. Most people don’t fit the collar properly, because they worry about it being too tight. Many times it’s quite snug when you first put it on the dog, but once the dog shakes and the collar settles through the coat it will fit properly.

Of course, if it is possible to make the collar too tight but I think you need to experiment a bit as your dog grows.

I hope this helps.

Cindy

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