How to Use Dog Collars As Restraints

One of the most important tools in dog ownership, the collar serves a number of purposes. A restraint for safety, a training tool, and a means for attaching the ever important dog tags, the collar provides owners a means of communication and control. Typically made from nylon or leather, collars are fitted to dogs' necks and are made to accommodate the attachment of leashes. A properly fitted collar, when used in a knowledgeable fashion, helps dogs and owners communicate effectively.

Things You'll Need

  • Tape Measure
  • Dog
  • Collar
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Instructions

  1. Using a Dog Collar as a Restraint

    • 1

      Select a collar. Measure the dog's neck at the location recommended by the manufacturer. Regular collars are typically measured three inches below the ears. Barking collars, choke chains, prong collars, electronic collars, and collars made especially for sight hounds may have different measurement specifications. Try the collar on the dog. It should fit snugly against the skin, but not so tightly that it creates an indention in the skin, or impedes breathing or swallowing.

    • 2

      Place the collar on your dog. Attach the collar on the dog according to the manufacturer's specifications. Once the collar is on the dog, it should remain on the dog unless it needs to be removed for medical reasons, bathing, or replacement.

    • 3

      Restrain your dog by hand. The owner should be able to slip a hand around the collar, to use it as a gentle guiding aid or to give the dog direction. If the dog is acting out or engaging in unruly behavior, the owner should be able to quickly grasp the collar and pull the dog into a heel position.

    • 4

      Restrain your dog with a leash or long lead. Attaching a leash to a collar allows the owner to restrain the dog on walks, in the house, and out in public locations. With the collar and lead combination, the dog can be restrained by being tied to a pole or tree, can be corrected with a leash correction, and can be led in the desired direction. The collar also keeps the dog safe from dangers such as moving vehicles and aggressive animals.

    • 5

      Use the collar to address unruly behavior. Many training challenges such as barking, jumping up, climbing on furniture and even house training are made easier with the use of the collar. When the dog begins to engage in unruly behavior, grasp the collar and demand the dog's attention, breaking him from the action. The collar can also be used as a directional tool to redirect the dog from a situation that leads him to act out.