Martingale Collar - Page 1

I purchased this collar for Meeka my newest GSD from DH. However I am unsure I am using correctly or if I have even bought the correct collar. It looks very uncomfortable and I would like advice on its use and others input on it. Any advice would be great. She is not a dog that needs a prong collar, but definately a choke collar for training. Thanks in advance.

hello, the martengale collar is a very comfy collar...you must have something else. it is a nylon or leather choke type of collar. send a pictur of it so maybe we can help you out with what you got. why did you get this kind of collar? Heather

I wouldn't consider a martingale (if that's really what it is) a suitable collar for training... if the prong is too much you can flip it over or try a nylon slip collar.... don't know of too many instances where a prong is too much for a GSD, I've even used one on a Min Schnauzer.... They do however need to be used properly not as punishment but with a quick "pop" type correction... and they should be snug onthe neck wherever you place it.... there are many internet sites that discuss prong collar use.. I can try to find some of my favorites, if you'd like...

I have to disagree DKiah. We are talking about a collar for every day use here. I have used the martingale collars for many years with great success. The ones that are part nylon and have a chain. It provides excellent control when needed, and instantly releases after a correction so you get very good timing as well. An inside out prong collar would do exactly the same thing just that you have metal with a chain, so why go that way? If you would ever have to take the dog directly by the collar the prongs are in the way and could hurt your hand. IMO a prong collar should be used for correction only during an active training sessions and then only when needed, AND in conjuction with either a flat collar or a regular chain collar with two leashes, or no extra leash if the prong collar has a handle. If the dog has come to a stage where you need more control and precision, that is when you start using the prong, let the dog wear it to every session, but still only apply when needed. I know there are different schools of thought out there regarding this. This is what works best for me. Everybody needs to figure out what works best for them. Then it depends on the particular training situation. Kari and Meeka are not at any point yet where training can even start in earnest. Meeka just got there less than 2 days ago. They are still feeling each other out and Kari just needs a little more control on her daily walks from the sounds of it (could have called me too, would have been quicker :o) ). IMO a prong is not suitable for every day situations. If you cannot control the dog without the prong, something is amiss with the dog/handler relationship and training. The prong is then just used as a crutch. She has not needed prong before, but she may have picked up some bad habits while she was inbetween homes. That should be easily corrected. Lets talk over the weekend Kari, I will give you a few simple and quick exercises you can very easily do with any collar that give you more control for your daily walks to start with.

I have the correct collar, nylon with chain, It was to tight, and now problem corrected and Meeka responding correctly. I would never use a prong collar on her. Thanks DH for the website, I do have the correct one and it now works properly.

D.H. I have to say that you are one of the best people that I have ever had the pleasure of reading...lol...You put things very well and make it very easy for all to understand. Looks like you and I train very much the same way, but you are way better at puting it down on paper. I am better at talking and doing then writing. I very much agree with the over use of the pinch. I try and train all my dogs off leash then add the leash later and use the pinch as little as possiable. I do like the Maringale Collar...have a few of them as everyday collars and they work very well. without pulling the hair on the dog. Heather

blush :o)