@Ameya Okamoto , this is not the first time I’ve addressed your improper usage of a prong collar. And at this point, you’re borderlining harming your dog. I’ve attempted to reach out to you on multiple occasions now, via dm and the few comment exchanges we have had in the last year.
I would absolutely love for you to put that collar around your neck and I ask you to tug me or one of your sisters down that hill and then you tell me why he was hesitant to take off after the first jerk. I know how much you love this dog; I beg that you further educate yourself on the tools you’re using on your dog. And shame on the trainer for putting a tool like that into hands lacking in aversive tool knowledge. #tiktokinfluencer #dogtrainer #education #awareness #fyp
Using prong collars requires a deep understanding of their purpose and limitations. These collars are designed to provide a corrective sensation that mimics a mother's natural bite, intended to discourage pulling behavior during walks. However, when misused—such as fitting the collar too tightly or using it to allow pulling—the dog can experience unnecessary pain and anxiety, which can lead to resistance or hesitation, as seen when a dog pulls back after a sharp correction. From personal experience, I’ve seen how improper use affects a dog’s trust and training progress. One time, a friend used a prong collar without proper guidance, resulting in the dog becoming fearful during walks. This highlighted for me the importance of education on correct handling and adjustment. The collar should remain loose until a correction is needed, and any tug or jerk should be gentle and well-timed to avoid causing distress. It's also critical to remember that prong collars are only one tool among many for training. Positive reinforcement and consistent commands often yield better long-term results than aversive methods alone. If you're considering using a prong collar, I strongly recommend consulting a certified dog trainer who understands aversive tools thoroughly. They can demonstrate the correct fit and usage, as well as guide you on integrating the collar into a balanced training approach. Furthermore, it helps to compare prong collars with flat collars during training. While flat collars are often preferred for everyday use due to their comfort, prong collars might be used selectively to manage specific behaviors, but only if applied correctly. Improper usage not only confuses the dog but can lead to injury or behavioral issues worsening. In summary, prong collars can be effective training aids when employed cautiously with informed handlers. Always prioritize your dog’s safety by educating yourself on proper tool usage, fitting, and training techniques to ensure a positive and respectful training experience for your furry friend.