Dog Training Collars Explained: What You Need To Know
Updated: Aug 18, 2021

Dog training collars can be a great tool for dog owners, but they are not always the perfect solution. As a new pet owner, it can be challenging knowing where to start when it comes to them.
In this blog, our CanineJulz team will break down:
The different types of dog training collars
What they're used for
If they really are the right answer for training your pup
We'll also talk about when it may be appropriate to use specific collars- so read on!
Table of Contents
Dog Training Collars: What To Know Beforehand
Our Philosophy On Dog Collars
The Different Types of Dog Training Collars
Shock, Electronic, and E-Collars
Buckle Collars
Break-Away Collars
Choke Chain or Slip Collars
Head Collars
Limited Slip Collars
Prong Collars
Martingale Collars
Body Harnesses: Not Dog Training Collars At All
Conclusion
People Also Ask
Are shock collars good for training dogs?
Shock collars used in the proper way with the help and guidance of a professional can prove to be more successful than other dog training methods.
While training that includes punishment tools like shock collars can teach your pup boundaries, studies show that starting off with relationship-based, positive training is essential.
Do vibration collars hurt dogs?
The short answer: No. Vibration dog training collars are designed to send a little buzz to your pup’s neck without causing pain or harm.
They do not shock your pet.
What can I use instead of a shock collar?
There are multiple alternatives to training your dog without shock collars:
Use a clicker
Reward correct behavior with treats
Meet good behavior with praise
Give them plenty of playtime and exercise
Enroll in obedience training
Create a safe space in your home using a crate
Leave the meditation music on while you’re gone
Do harnesses stop dogs from pulling?
Dog harnesses can help you have more control while you walk your pup and improve his or her leash skills as well.
There are dog harnesses designed to reduce pulling. By using a non-pull harness, you can make your walks with your dog more enjoyable and also keep them from hurting themselves.
Do you leave dog collar on all the time?
From a practical and safe point of view, we don't recommend leaving any type of dog training collar on your pup all the time.
Doing so could damage his or her skin on their neck and fur.
Dog Training Collars: What To Know Beforehand
Before discussing dog collars in more detail, there is one very important thing to understand.
Any collar, regardless of make or type, can hurt your pup when used improperly.
Whether it be a harness or vibration collar, an inexperienced trainer or overly-passionate owner can use techniques that result in injury.
If you do choose to use a dog collar, it needs to be fitted in a way that won't create:
Harm
Injury
Pain
Our Philosophy On Dog Collars
We DO NOT recommend leaving a collar on your dog when he or she is unattended. This is unnecessary and unsafe.
If you’re worried about your pup running away, we DO recommend getting them microchipped instead.
The Different Types of Dog Training Collars
When it comes to training pups with collars, there is no one size fits all type of approach. Just like people, every dog is unique.
While many pet owners have had successful training with collars, many others have not.
This is why it’s vital for you to understand:
What dog collars can do
What they can’t
Define the differences between each type
Shock, Electronic, and E-Collars
Also known as E-collars, these electronic devices give an electrical stimulation causing discomfort or pain to your pup when they need correcting.
In our experience, these types of collars only seem to reduce healthy self-confidence and boost confusion.
Many other professionals, such as:
Well-trained handlers
Obedience trainers
Seasoned veterinarians
Also agree and don’t encourage the use of shock collars.
Julie and our team have trained countless pups thought to be difficult. We can assure you that lots of love, patience, and understanding can go a long way.
Buckle Collars
Buckle collars are just that;