[3181wly]

While I was opposed to prong collars, I like to think I can learn something. I can see where Doc and I both could benefit from using one on a very limited time for training specific things. This will help him learn more quickly, and the learned task probably will stay with him much longer. I doesn't look so much like pain, as a true attention getter, not unlike pulling hard on a leash. Pulling hard on a leather collar probably does more potential harm that very limited use of a prong. I don't know, but you guys have me rethinking.

 

[Beach_Bums]

My trainer last night said that a 3 mm prong for a dog Mumford's size is perfect he is 65 pounds. He said that I should look for a herm sprenger. even though they are more expensive they work a lot more smoothly than other brands giving more even pressure. There is a lot of good information on Youtube from trainers like Tyler Muto about how to get started. I also found a copy of Leash skills with Michael Ellis that had really great information.

 

[Beach_Bums]

I would also look up information about the correct placement and fit. Leerburg online has some great information

 

[migs]

Herm Sprenger is the only prong collar you should use if you decide to use one.

The Sprenger that I have has a custom built loop(that attaches to the prongs & to the leash) that is made in leather so that the pull & release from the leash is always smooth and will never kink, bind or get stuck. My boys trainer customs makes them & puts them on for all the dogs he trains and returns your Sprenger back with it. If you would like one, message me & I can provide his contact information.

And YES, the fit needs to be high and snug. Up by their jaw line. NOT AROUND THE NECK.

 

[Loisiana]

My trainer last night said that a 3 mm prong for a dog Mumford's size is perfect he is 65 pounds.

I think that's too big, I use the 2.25 (small) sized links. I get mine from here so it's easy to get on and off. Herm Sprenger prong collars with side release, quick release buckle|Leashes by Design

 

[Pipersmom]

I had help from a trainer with my first prong. A professional trainer (a GOOD professional trainer) is invaluable.

 

[migs]

Took a picture of the leather loop i have on my sprenger that makes the pull & release smooth and kink free i was mentioning above.

 

[AmberSunrise]

Have to respond...

I do not use prong collars - I used to but no longer feel the need.

my dogs (4 goldens) are out & about a lot. They do not pull or lunge and compete in rally, obedience & agility. They hike, bike and walk with me - on flat collars.

My point? Please do not try to imply dogs not trained with prongs are not as well trained as dogs trained with prong collars.

To the OP, if you choose a prong, you have been given excellent advice. I would add that prong collars are typically called self correcting collars; that is you do not snap the leash/collar but rather let the dog correct themself.

I have used a prong and have had great success with it. In fact my dog is excited to see it: it means we're heading out. I've only had one comment about it while I was out with my dog. My question for the person that didn't like the collar was: well, where is your dog? My dog is out and about participating in life because she has training and I have tools to help make sure she behaves and we are both comfortable. it's pleasurable for her and me to bring her along. Where's your dog?

 

[Beach_Bums]

I apologize if my thread has made anyone feel that if they do not use a prong collar that their dog is not well trained. I originally started the post because i needed a different training tool with my own SD. I truly believe that you should teach a dog using positive methods. I need the self correcting power that a prong provides for my dog for sniffing as a SD. and i hope to one day transition to a harness. My dog is still young and i want to be a great ambassador for other service dogs that come to an establishment after me. I work very hard everyday to train my dog and i know others do too. Please do not feel that I believe others aren't working as hard as I am.

 

[Pipersmom]

Have to respond...

I do not use prong collars - I used to but no longer feel the need.

my dogs (4 goldens) are out & about a lot. They do not pull or lunge and compete in rally, obedience & agility. They hike, bike and walk with me - on flat collars.

My point? Please do not try to imply dogs not trained with prongs are not as well trained as dogs trained with prong collars.

To the OP, if you choose a prong, you have been given excellent advice. I would add that prong collars are typically called self correcting collars; that is you do not snap the leash/collar but rather let the dog correct themself.

I have used a prong and have had great success with it. In fact my dog is excited to see it: it means we're heading out. I've only had one comment about it while I was out with my dog. My question for the person that didn't like the collar was: well, where is your dog? My dog is out and about participating in life because she has training and I have tools to help make sure she behaves and we are both comfortable. it's pleasurable for her and me to bring her along. Where's your dog?

I was not trying to imply dogs not trained with prong collars are not well trained.
I'm simply saying that my dog is well trained and when I got negative feedback from a stranger on an outing based simply on my collar choice I explained that this is what works for my dog and her dog was nowhere in sight.
I have trained dogs with a buckle collar, a gentle leader, and one never wore anything but a harness. Ive also used an e collar when training for herding.
every dog is different and so is every person and every situation. I don't think there should be a stigma on any training device that is used correctly.