What is the Best Dog Training Collar

From the moment you welcome your canine companion into your home, you will want to begin their training process. Proper training is essential in creating a well rounded pup, and one that you will be proud to have at your side. While most of their training involves our diligent participation and positive reinforcement, there are a few training tools that make this process easier.

In this article we will discuss the details of dog training collars, and introduce you to the best dog training collars out there!

There are many aspects to a successful dog training plan. Dedication to your pup and positive reinforcement are the best tools for success, but training collars can also help you in your efforts. Training collars can assist in getting your dog comfortable with the feeling of wearing a collar, guiding them when learning how to walk on a leash, and correcting any improper behaviors along the way. 

Let’s introduce you to the most common dog training collar types below. 

Standard Collar: A standard collar, or buckle collar, is one of the most common types of training collars available. These collars are appropriate for pups of all sizes, and they offer plenty of versatility when adjusting the sizing. While they do not offer much feedback when a dog is walking on a leash, they will adjust quickly and will not choke your pup throughout their walk. 

Choke Collar: A choke collar is a common training collar used to get your dog’s attention when they are learning how to walk on a leash. These collars are created to tighten anytime your dog pulls on the lead, leading to some discomfort until they stop pulling. 

Martingale Collar: A martingale collar is a more gentle form of a choke collar. These collars are essentially a combination of a buckle collar and slip lead, as they have a second loop on the collar that will tighten as a dog pulls. However, this loop only allows the collar to tighten slightly, so it will not choke your pup to the extent of a choke collar or slip lead. The tightness on their neck should still be enough to gain their attention. 

Prong Collar: A prong collar is a type of training collar that should only be used by those with proper experience. This collar consists of blunt metal links that face inward on the collar, coming in contact with your dog’s neck when the collar is placed properly. When pressure is applied, these links will move close together, creating a pinch on the dog’s neck. Due to the fact that these collars require training experience to ensure your dog’s safety, we do not recommend them for the average puppy owner. 

Shock Collar: A shock collar is a training collar that delivers a vibration or shock when the owner sends the signal. These collars typically come with a remote that the owner has control of, allowing them to send a signal to the collar when the dog is not acting appropriately. We should mention that these collars have been known to cause additional aggravation and even aggression in dogs, and are not considered effective for basic obedience training. Vibration collars may be warranted in dogs with severe struggles with concentration, but that’s not very common. 

As we mentioned above, we do not recommend using shock collars for basic obedience training in dogs. These collars may only further agitate the dog throughout their training, causing a negative association with the process. Positive reinforcement style training is more effective at the end of the day, and will only encourage success in your pup.

Now that you are aware of the negatives associated with shock collars, let’s list some of our favorite no-shock dog training collars below.

Ruffwear Crag Reflective Dog Collar

The Crag Collar is a durable, comfortable, and trustworthy collar for everyday use. This collar is ideal for dogs of all sizes, and is cozy enough for dogs to easily accept when they are first learning how to walk on a lead. It is also made with reflective thread, so your pup can be easily seen when the sun goes down.

Ruffwear Web Reaction Martingale Dog Collar With Buckle

The Web Reaction Collar is a martingale collar that is ideal for leash training. This type of collar will still tighten slightly on your dog’s neck as they pull, but it will not cause significant discomfort for the pup. The slight tug is just enough to gain your dog’s attention, allowing you to have better control of the situation.

DOGLine Comfort Microfiber Flat Collar

The DOGline collar is a wonderful option for those pups who have mastered the art of walking on a lead. This collar is still durable and trustworthy, but it will not offer any corrective feedback as your pup walks. The collar is padded for maximum comfort, and comes in anarry of adorable colors to fit your pup’s personality.

Ruffwear Top Rope Collar

The Ruffwear Top Rope Collar is a wonderful option for small dog owners that need a reliable training collar. This collar is sturdy, easy to use, and has a V-ring clip at the top of the collar for simple leash clip in.

DOGLine Comfort Microfiber Round Martingale Collar

This martingale collar is perfect for small dogs that are learning how to walk on a lead. The padded material is comfortable on a dog’s neck, but is strong enough to guide your pup as they master leash training.

Julius-K9 Color & Gray® Collar with Handle, Safety Lock and Interchangeable Patch

This Julius K9 collar is the durable collar you need for your large breed pup. It is made of strong textile material that will hold up the wear and tear of everyday life, and it comes with a sturdy buckle that will remain secure at all times. This collar also has a closable handle on the top of the ring, allowing you to grasp the collar firmly and lift your dog when needed.

Ruffwear Chain Reaction Martingale Collar

The Ruffwear Chain Reaction Martingale is perfect for big dogs that are known to slip out of traditional collars. This training collar is ideal for dogs that are still learning how to not pull on walks, as it will offer slight correction each time they get ahead of themselves. The material is also durable and resistant, and the stainless steel chain can hold up to even the strongest of pups.

Training collars can be a wonderful addition to any canine training routine. Just remember that while training collars can assist your pup in their journey, the only way to form a well rounded pup is through positive reinforcement and consistency. As long as you are willing to put in the work alongside your furry friend, you will both succeed each step of the way. 

If you are looking for other training gear options to help your canine friend, be sure to browse the harnesses, leashes, and other training accessories availablehere!

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