Choker/Pincher Collars

[joella]

Opinions on using choker or pinch collars anyone? I've always thought they were kind of mean, but I'm finding myself reconsidering. Anka isn't getting any weaker, and no matter how much we work on "heel", I can't seem to stop her from pulling when she's not on "heel". (And sometimes, even when she is!) Today, partly my fault, I had her leash wrapped around my wrist a couple times, and also wrapped around 2 of my fingers. She pulled ahead, and I fear that I came awfully close to losing 2 of my precious typing fingers!

What experiences have you had with choker/pinch collars? Are they effective? Do you recommend one over the other?

[koni]

I have no personal use with both. I prefer using a gentle leader with koni, because then I can control him. Without the gentle leader, Koni will take my arm off. I have only been using the gentle leader for a short while, so hopefully someday we can get to the point where I can use a leash. I heard you can train the dog to heel with a gentle leader.
Hope this helps nd it isn't off topic.

[eXile]

Joella i will have to tell you, they are definitly not mean, AT ALL. Thats when used correctly ofcourse. Ive heard so many people tell me stay away from the choke chain but my trainer pulled one out and in 5 minutes i had Oscar heeling right beside me. I definitly think you should use it. I myself own a lab and have had outstanding results with it. I recommend you talk to a trainer about using one or the other. Both use the same type method of corrections and work beautifully. Like i said make sure you talk to a trainer for best use and results.

[koni]

Gentle Leader info w/ Cute puppy pictures!
http://www.ragom.org/GoldenFeatures/gentle_leader.htm

[smehta1]

Our trainer showed gave us several alternatives with full information on the effects of each.

The pinch - very effective has been proven to cause damage if used improperly. I thought this would not be a good alternative for us in case Chloe tugged...how were we to control the pull and therefore prevent damage?

The choke - again very effective...less possibility of damage...I decided against it because Chloe was managing without it (but thought it would be ok in a worst case scenario)

The soft choke - non metallic nylon collar that puts very mild pressure when pulled...hardly any possibility of damage....this is what we went with and Chloe responded well - when she got disobedient a sharp verbal command was enough to supplement.

I'm not sure how effective a soft choke is to control a big dog like a lab but maybe you could consult with your trainer? Hope this helps!

[dobermom]

I agree with Exile, they are not mean if you use them right. Clifford is as stong as an ox! I use a pincher collar with him. Usually one quick jerk and he is line the rest of the walk. He is usually so excited when we go for walks he could pull me all over the neighborhood. Its my understanding the pinchers are safer than chokers. I was told a choker can actually crush their wind pipe.
Meka is fine on walks, no pulling at all, I did buy a pincher for her. There is almost never any tension on it.
Never leave a pincher or choke chain on when your not on a walk, they can be very dangerous.
Joella, in this kind of weather you have to consider your safety. Ice and snow can be dangerous with a strong dog!

[pittiegurl]

I personally-on Osha-use a Martingale Training Collar(in bright purple).


On Roy- I use a Pinch collar.As he has never had the correct obedience trainging.As he was used as a bait dog.

[pittiegurl]

These are also nice. As they are soft & easy on the neck.


Great for dogs w/ soft/thin throat "skin"....

[joella]

Thanks for all of the feedback everyone! I would definitely consult w/ a proffessional before using either, I would never want to hurt my dog out of my own ignorance of how to use the collar. It would be used for walking only, and you are absolutely right dobermom, the slippery surface scares the heck out of me with her pulling the way she does! I know its only because she's so excited to get out and about, but unfortunately, mamma can't go as fast she'd like!

[pittiegurl]

NP Joella! Always happy to help.