Why choose a prong dog collar, or    pinch dog collar?

The prong dog collar or pinch dog collar (also called the correcting dog collar) is commonly used with dogs who pull while on lead. The prong dog collar works in a similar manner as the choke collar in that it momentarily tightens round the dog’s neck when the lead is tugged and/or the dog pulls. It distributes an even, mild, pressure that should not cause injury. Similar to choke collar, the prong or correcting dog collar is made of metal, but instead of links it has blunt prongs which can misleadingly make it look more like an instrument of torture than a training tool! The effect of the prong or pinch dog collar is to imitate the dog ritual of ‘scruff shaking’ which in the dog world is used to gain dominance. The prongs on the collar simulate the dominant dog’s teeth, but in a much gentler fashion. The use of the collar is as a training aid, using the principle that the temporary sensation felt when the collar tightens will signal to the dog that its actions are inappropriate. Over time the dog will gradually learn to correct its behaviour.

Despite choke collars being used for a long time in obedience classes, it has been claimed that the pinch dog collar is more successful in teaching a dog to stop pulling, and also more humane since you don’t get the gagging and choking which some say is possible with the choke dog chain.

When comparing a slip collar with a prong dog collar , it should be noted that whilst both may be approved as training tools, neither should be used on puppies. Also, dog identity tags should not be attached to these collars, as they could interfere with the collar's action. As stated before, the collars work by applying pressure when a dog pulls without causing too much discomfort. Whereas studies have shown that the choke chain could cause neck, back, and tracheal injuries to dogs when used improperly, the prong collar or pinch collar, is claimed to be much safer.

In summary, the prong dog collar might look uglier, but it is considered by many to be more humane than a choke collar, and also to give a greater degree of control without causing gagging or choking. Should you choose to use this type of collar, or any other dog training tool for that matter, be sure that you first understand the correct way to use it.