THE BEGINNER’S GUIDE:
COLLAR HANDLING — SHOW ME A P!

By Jessica Allen

I’ve had the unique opportunity not only to train my own dogs but also to teach basic obedience to pet owners. I also volunteer with my all-breed club, teaching conformation classes to first-timers as well as experienced dog enthusiasts. Through these experiences, I’ve come to understand that the proper use of a slip collar (known to some as a choke collar) can make a significant difference in how we communicate with our dogs. (Note: Slip collars are primarily used on medium, large, and giant breeds. This article will not address the proper use of Martingales or Resco collars.)

First, imagine that your dog’s collar is like the bit on a horse and the leash is like the reins that lead to the rider’s hands. The equestrian talks to the horse through very subtle hand and body cues, primarily by way of the bit and reins. The English-style riders oftentimes use just the tips of their fingers to communicate their expectations. Those of us with dogs can do the very same thing through the collar and leash.

SLIP COLLAR TYPES

The type of slip collar you select should be based on the level of training your dog has, the sensitivity of your dog, the dog’s coat, and your personal preference. Metal collars come in a variety of styles and are generally moderate in price. Leather collars provide a little more "stick" to the position you put them in and are very strong; although they are more expensive than other materials, leather collars can be custom-made to your specifications. Nylon collars — arguably the most popular style — are cheap, durable, and come in a variety of colors and widths.

PUTTING THE SLIP COLLAR ON

For most of us, our dogs work on our left side. (I have had only one student that needed to handle her dog on the right side due to a medical issue.) Therefore, this article is geared toward left-sided handling.

Going back to the equestrian analogy, the slip collar is literally like your bit so care should be taken to use this tool properly. As the dog sits or stands in front of you, create a "P" with the slip collar.

The stem of the "P" should be in your left hand and the loop of the "P" should be held in your right hand dangling down (Figure 1.1). Open the "P" up to create an "O" or a "D," keeping the rings of the collar in your left hand (Figure 1.2), and then slip the collar over the dog’s head (Figure 1.3). If you pick up the stem in your left hand, the collar should again form a "P" around your dog’s neck, just like it did in your hands (Figure 1.4).

WHERE THE SLIP COLLAR SHOULD SIT

The slip collar should sit in the nuchal crest — the indention behind the dog’s ears (Figure 2.1) — and above the thyroid cartilage — the most prominent cartilage of the larynx (Figure 2.2). Positioning the slip collar in this specific area provides you the most control with the least amount of effort. Also, your dog is most comfortable with the collar in this position. The ring that is not attached to your leash can either be positioned directly above the thyroid cartilage (maximum correction) or in graduated steps (to reduce correction) to the right of it (Figure 2.3). The ring should never rest above the right ear (Figure 2.4) or you will lose much of the collar’s slip action, while too far to the left of the thyroid cartilage (Figure 2.5) may cause your dog to hold his/her head at an awkward angle, thus altering his/her appearance and movement.

HOW TO USE THE SLIP COLLAR EFFECTIVELY

Once you’ve selected the appropriate slip collar and positioned the collar correctly on your dog, you’re ready to begin using the collar to its maximum capability. Tulip Petal Pulled Taut

Figure 3.1

A tulip petal is very delicate but also very strong. Take the petal from a tulip and, with a thumb and forefinger holding each end, gently pull it taut — not enough to tear it, just enough to see the strength of th