Spike Dog Collars
Help You Train Your Dog

Spike Dog Collars, also often referred to as Prong Collars, are a great training tool for any strong, dominant, or large sized dog. When properly used, they give a quick, clear correction and can be a great asset when teaching your dog how to obey commands and go for a walk without pulling on the leash.

It is important that spike dog collars not be used on small, fragile toy dog breeds. They also should not be used on puppies less than 6 months of age. In young dogs like this, the neck cartiledge is still developing, and the use of a spike collar could damage their necks.

The key in using a spike dog collar is to create a quick, sharp sensation on the dog's neck. This is achieved by "popping" the leash with a quick tug, and then a RELEASE of pressure. You do not want to have the dog steadily pulling into the spikes. If he is on a walk and pulling you toward a good spot to smell, rather than making the mistake I always did at first and steadily pulling him away from that spot, you must pop him "jerk, release, jerk, release, jerk, release" as you walk in the opposite direction.

In order for the pop to be delivered effectively you must not only have good "leash management" skills, but you must also have the collar fit properly. You don't want it so tight that the prongs are sticking into your dog's neck when he is at rest. You don't want the collar so loose that you have to haul in six inches of slack before he feels anything, either.

The proper fit should allow a pair of fingers between the dog's neck and collar, but not your whole fist.

Corrections with spike dog collars can be given at any time. While spike collars are very effective in eliminating pulling, they can also be used when you are training or proofing a dog who has learned a command and is now practicing it under distraction.

Remember, you should never correct a dog who is just learning a command. If your dog has had 100-200 repetitions of a command, complete with praise for performance and help when he forgot what the command was, he should have a solid grasp of what he is expected to do.

When he is performing consistently inside your house, you can start taking him to other locations to practice his commands. Start with something easy, like practicing in your quiet back yard, and move up to more challenging areas such as a busy sidewalk or park. A correction with a spike collar can be fairly severe, so be sure you're only using it when your dog is willfully disobeying you on a command he should know, and not simply confused as to what you expect from him.

Misuse of a spike collar can damage your dog's trust in you. Proper use can help you establish your position as pack leader, which is vital for the safety of you and your dog.

Make sure that you only have him wear this collar when you are working with him, on training exercises. You should never leave a prong collar on your dog when he is not working, especially if he's left unsupervised in the house or yard. He should wear a plain buckle collar around the house.

Spike Dog Collars

A classic spike dog collar.

The original spike collar is metal with metal teeth. The teeth need not be sharpened or pointed, dull teeth will do the job just fine. Remember, you don't want to injur your dog, you just want to catch his attention.

A strong plastic spike collar is another good alternative.

1) Check out our Stylish Premier Strap and Buckle Collars.

2) Train your dog to stop barking with an innovative and humane Citronella Dog Collar.