How I Use Pinch Collars for Dog TrainingYou 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.
- Warner Snell