My dog is afraid of his collar

Question
My dog is a pugg/chihuahua mix, and he is absolutely terrified of his collar.  When I put it on him (I make sure it is not too tight) he will just stand in one place and shake uncontrollably.  I have heard that I should let him wear it for a few minutes at a time so he will get used to it, but that is not working.  

When he is in his collar, he will not eat, drink or even move.  He once stood for 3 hours in one spot until I removed his collar!  What should I do?  I'm moving to an apartment and will need to be able to take him outside on a leash.

Answer
WOW! this must be getting you down(we know the dog is). Have you tried a harness. He might feel more comfy. How old is he? How old was he when you got him? If he was older when you got him(even just 4months+)he could have had a bad experience earlier(like stringing him up by the collar). Or maybe during the fear period(3-5months)he was "trained" to walk on a leash by being dragged. If this could be it then i advise trying the harness. And then find a source on the TTouch methods. I heard they work wonders. It can't hurt. I know alot of it is to do with building the dogs confidence in himself and the world around him. But i'm not the expert on that. Try also getting a new collar for him. Maybe a thicker(wider) leather collar(and not clasp:the sound of it closing might be it). You could even try bribing him. Give him a treat if he comes up to you(w/o calling him) when you are plainly holding the collar. Then try draping it on his neck. Drag it softly all over his back, pet him with it. And if and when he does not freak out give him a treat(food OR toy) and lots of praise then leave it alone till later in the day. Keep draping it on his neck and gradually when hes REALLY used to that hold it closed then treat him right away. Gradually hold it for longer periods then finally close it for real. Keep trying. And please let me know of any progress. Sending lots of happy tail wags your way.