How to properly size a Prong Collar

Whether you are a first-time user of the prong collar or a regular, the same holds true, it must be the right size and fit for the dog. The prong collar is an extremely effective training tool for all types of dogs with different learning or behavior objectives. There are many misconceptions and misunderstandings about the prong collar, but the more educated you become on the tool the easier it is to use. The goal of this article is for you to become more knowledgeable about the different sizes of prongs and how to equip your dog with the best fit to accomplish the best training practices.

Once you have determined the correct wire gauge, 1.5mm-4.00mm, you will be able to determine how many links you need to appropriately fit your dog's neck. This step is critical because with too many links the correction can become completely ineffective. On the flip side, with too little number of links, the dog could be over-corrected, and it can become harmful to the dog’s airway/fur and well-being. A properly fit prong collar minimizes the overall risk of injury to the dog's neck and trachea. As a reminder, the prong collar should only be used when the dog is under supervision and be removed anytime observation cannot be made. If you measure the wrong part of the dog's neck and do not size it appropriately, the use of the collar can be ineffective. When put in the correct placement, it will be high and snug on the neck right below the ears, with roughly two fingers able to fit underneath it. The collar is not intended to sag, drape, or hang low on the dog's neck because the correction will be less effective. While the different metal prong collars tend to be much more popular, it is worth noting the proper sizing for the plastic prong collar and its benefits. When sizing the plastic prong, the concept is the same as previously stated, but with just a different material. The plastic can be beneficial to dogs who have allergies to metal or other skin sensitivities and can also be a good entry prong for younger dogs.

The risk you run by having an improper fit is continually giving the dog the wrong correction desired. With too much slack, the collar will spin and move making it difficult to capture the exact behavior you want to extinct or modify. For instance, what if your goal is to stop a particular behavior from happening but when you complete the pop and release correction, they continue the behavior? In that particular instance, the dog has been positively reinforced because the pop and release were ineffective, making them actually strengthen the behavior. Well there are a number of things that could have gone wrong while performing the correction, it is likely the improper fit played a role. With a snug fit, there is little movement on the collar, except for the portion intended. This motion in the pop and release is often said to mimic another dog making a correction or a mom correcting her puppy. When it fits appropriately it creates an equal distribution of force on the dog's neck, minimizing any discomfort for the dog and allowing proper and effective communication between yourself (the handler) and the dog. Simply put, when the collar fit is wrong, you will be less effective. With a correct fit, the dog is getting a consistent application, which in turn makes the communication between the dog and yourself better. Communication is critical when dog training and this is exactly what the prong assists with. When you have the correct placement and size it will aid you in giving timely guidance and communication to the dog. It will be obvious when the behavior is appropriate or not, minimizing any confusion for the dog.

When putting on and taking off the collar it is important to note it should not be slid over the head onto the neck to avoid injury. Due to the appropriate and desired snug fit, sliding it over the head could cause unnecessary discomfort. With that being said, the buckle accessory for the collar allows you to quick clip/snap it on and off, but it will alter the size prong collar. If you intend to use this accessory there is a potential that you will minimize the number of links used, limiting the amount of correction. Therefore, if you need a sharper correction for the particular dog, a buckle accessory might not be the best addition. Furthermore, depending on the link size your using will vary how many you need to take out or adjust to accommodate the buckle accessory. It is important to note not all buckles are the same size, so in order to not compromise the functionality and safety of the prong collar, the correct size buckle should be matched to the prong size. For instance, the brand Herm Sprenger offers three different size buckles to accommodate the different size links offered, you’ll notice the size of the hole opening will vary depending on the link size (see picture below).

Simply put, lack of education and bad information. Prong collars, like many other training tools, have become very controversial and are often misjudged just by the way they look. People see the metal and what looks like sharp edges and immediately label it as cruel. That couldn’t be further from the truth and is spreading misinformation. The misusage by some dog owners has caused prong collars to be given a bad reputation or labeled as inhumane. However, when sized appropriately, worn when supervised, and given the right pop and release correction you will have another tool for your tool belt. The collar is not intended to be worn 24/7 and can be misused by lack of knowledge. The intention of the collar is to have a more humane way to train dogs, not the other way around. By understanding the functionality of the collar and how to properly size it, you cannot go wrong. Like any tool, without proper understanding or safety precautions, there is always possible injury. However, the knowledge gained in this article should help to ensure proper use and make you a more effective trainer or pet owner for your client or personal dog. The tool is only as good as the person using it, which is why it’s important to do your research and know the benefits and possible shortcomings. Good luck with your training.