Shih Tzu – The Basic Training Collar

The basic dog training collar goes by many names, including
choke collar, choke chain, training collar, correction collar
and slip collar. These training collars are among the most
popular and most commonly used tools with both amateur and
professional shih tzu and dog trainers.

While a training collar is an effective tool, like any tool it
must be used properly in order to be effective for you and safe
for the shih tzu. Among the most important considerations when
using a training collar are:

How the collar fits the shih tzu. It is essential that the
training collar be properly fitted to the shih tzu. A properly
fitted training collar is easier to use and safer for the shih
tzu.

Putting the training collar on properly. There is a right way
and a wrong way to fit a training collar, and putting it on
wrong will make it both ineffective and potentially dangerous.

Using the collar properly. A training collar should be used as
a sharp reminder to the shih tzu, not as punishment. It is
important that constant pressure be avoided when using a
training collar.

The weight of the chain and the size of the links on the
training collar. It is important that the weight of the chain be
appropriate to the size and weight of the shih tzu.

The placement of the collar on the shih tzu. It is important to
properly place the collar on the shih tzu.

The importance of a properly fitted training collar Determining
if the training collar is the right size is relatively easy. The
ideal size training collar should fit snugly, yet comfortably
over the shih tzu’s head. It is important that the training
collar not fit too tightly, but it should not be too loose
either. A training collar that is too tight will be too hard to
put on and off. On the other hand, a training collar that is too
loose can accidentally fall off of the shih tzu’s head when it
lowers its head.

It is also important to know that a training collar that is too
long for the shih tzu requires a great deal of finesse to use
properly. A collar that is too long can still be used, but it
will require more skill on the part of the handler.

Properly sizing and measure the shih tzu for a training collar
It is best to measure the shih tzu’s neck with a tape measure,
then add 2 to 3 inches to that measurement. So if your shih tzu
has a neck 12″ in diameter, you would want to buy a training
collar that is 14″ in length. Chain slip collars are generally
sized in two inch increments.

Fitting the collar properly When fitting a training collar, the
part of the chain which is connected to the leash should be on
the top of the shih tzu’s neck. With this type of arrangement,
the collar releases the instant the leash is loosened. Training
collars work by making the collar tight and loose in a fast
manner. Tightening the collar is the first part of the
correction, and making it loose is the second part of the
correction.

If the part of the training collar that is attached to the leash
is not on the top of the shih tzu’s neck, the collar can still
be made tight, but it will not release back to a loose state
easily. This constant pressure on the shih tzu’s neck initiates
a counter response on the part of the animal, and the shih tzu
will quickly learn to pull and strain against the leash.

Finally, it is important to purchase a training collar that is
well made and strong. Buying a high quality training collar,
slip collar or choke collar is vital to the safety of yourself
and your shih tzu.

If the worst happens, and your shih tzu’s training collar does
break, it is important not to panic. Most shih tzu will be
unaware that they have broken the collar, at least for a few
minutes. In most cases, if you act as if the leash is still
connected, you can probably get control of your shih tzu back
quickly.

When securing a loose shih tzu, the best strategy is to make a
quick slip lead by running the snap on the leash through its
handle and then slipping it over the shih tzu’s head. It may not
be the best arrangement, but it will certainly do in a pinch.