Are Prong Collars Harmful to Dogs?

A prong collar (or "pinch collar") is an effective way to stop a dog from pulling on its leash. If you've never worked with a prong collar, get professional guidance first. Used improperly, a prong collar can harm the animal.

  1. Features

    • Each link of a prong collar has two blunt ends (the prongs) facing inward toward the neck. The prongs are metal, but sometimes have removable rubber tips. You can adjust the circumference of the prong collar by adding and removing links.

    Function

    • When a dog strains on the leash, the prongs tighten and pinch the skin around the animal's neck. The pinch teaches the dog to stop pulling and walk closer to the owner.

    Advantages

    • Prong collars correct the dog without closing too tightly around the neck. Choke-chain collars, on the other hand, will just about strangle a hard-pulling dog. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) says choke-chain collars can actually damage the trachea.

    Disadvantages

    • The pinching action can be uncomfortable to the point of pain. The ASPCA says prong collars can also cause behavior issues like fear and aggression--or make existing issues worse.

    Considerations

    • If you've never used a prong collar, it's best to consult with an obedience trainer. Also, prong collars work only as well as they fit. A prong collar should sit snugly at the highest point of the neck--just behind the ears--and not slip toward the shoulders.

    Warning

    • Yanking on a prong collar can hurt your dog. Prongs without the rubber tips could cut into the dog's neck. When a dog is wearing a prong collar, never leave the animal alone or let it play with other dogs.