Many people are confused about what kind of leashes and collars are the best for their dogs.  There are many different options, and many good and bad choices to make, especially if you have a "pulling dog"  aka...  "the hard headed, wants-to-be-in-control-of-the-walk dog".   I will try to hit the high points concerning the most common, and what is the safest for your dog and for you.

You've seen it, and maybe even been part of it - the dog who pulls it's owner down the street.  It's a physically uncomfortable situation for the dog, and for the owner, especially those dealing with the BIG dogs.   

A common collar used is the choke chain (or slip collar).  This is the least desirable collar to use on a dog.  A dog can be severely injured and can die as a result of choke chains.  It can cause neck fractures, tissue swelling, bleeding, and cutting off a dog's ability to breathe or swallow.  And definately do not EVER leave the dog tied out or unattended while wearing this collar.  Also - popping and jerking on the leash with this type collar is very dangerous.  In addition to the shoulder and neck problems you can develope from this type of jerking -- it can be very dangerous for your dog.  I personally hate to see this type collar used on any dog.

Another training type collar is a Pinch collar (metal-pronged collar).  These are much more humane than choke collars.  The pinch collar can look cruel because of the inward facing prongs, but it can only tighten a few inches.  They are actually not painful for the dog.  These can be useful in training large dogs with small owners, or dogs who need to be reminded to who is in charge.  

However, one of the mistakes made with this type of collar is the owner constantly "popping" the leash every few steps.  It should only be done once in a while.  Do not leave this collar on a dog when not being trained.    AND, don't use this collar on an agressive dog, it will intensify their agression.   On a shy or fearful dog, it can make the fear worse.   Do not buy this type of collar without assistance from an experienced person.  There are many different weights and prong style options that have to be considered in purchasing this for your dog.

Head Halters (head collars ).  These can work well while on the dog, but do not teach changes in behavior.  It is sometimes difficult to acclimate the dog to this halter.  It turns out to be more of a quick fix than a long term training.   The dog does not learn to walk on a loose leash, and should it take off chasing a squirrel or rabbit, he can suffer physical injury similar to whiplash, cervical damage or spinal damage.

Harnesses, which attach around a dog's shoulders and chest are safe, and least likely to allow escape.  However, the harness is not a training device - and will encourage a hard headed dog to dig in and pull even harder.  Harnesses are good for use in any dog with a history of cervical or spinal problems.

Continuous jerking, no matter what kind of collar the dog is wearing, and constant nagging or reminding (which means the dog is ignoring the corrections) are all good hints that what you are using is not working.

The best and safest option for your dog can be a simple flat nylon or leather collar, and some easy training steps.  We have seen the most hard headed dogs correct their behavior in a 10 minute walk.

Be sure to visit the e-bay store: The K-Nine Deli, to see our "Easy Leash" products.   We GUARANTEE they will make a more comfortable walk for your dog - and for you.   Read about our "Easy Leash" products.  And, feel free to ask us any questions!  We have several years experience at dog shows all over the country, and have astounded many owners in how quickly a dog's behavior can be changed.

The K-Nine Deli E-Bay Store