How to use a pinch collar for dog training by Warner Snell

How I Use Pinch Collars for Dog Training

You use a pinch collar like a choker chain except, you do not yank on it. I like to start out with "heel" and walk in a big circle, and go kind of slow the first few sessions. It is important to keep your hand/the leash in the same location so that the dog walks into the pinch. Therefore, it is easier if you hook your hand over a pocket, belt or whatever so that the leash stays in a fixed position. That way the dog learns to judge the proper position more quickly. If you hold the leash close by one time and then a foot away the next time, it makes it difficult for the dog.

After 2-3 sessions I start making tighter turns, then go to go to a box, and then a figure 8 and I begin to vary my pace etc. If the dog continues to forge ahead after several sessons as some will, I start making a 180 when he does. Pinch collar fit is awful important. You can add links and take out links to get a good fit. You want pinch collars loose enough that the dog doesn't feel any pressure when he is in the proper position. You want a pinch collar tight enough to pinch him when he gets out of position.

Each dog is different and you have to be a little more forceful with some. The dog is more sensitive high up on his neck because there is less muscle. I put my pinch collars right below the dog's ears on stubborn dogs. Initially, however, I like to let the dog get used to the collar before applying pressure. If the dog is wearing a regular collar, I put the pinch collar in front. You have to check frequently to be sure the prongs aren't catching on the regular collar. It won't work if they do.