Before applying this collar to the dog, I suggest you should place your arm in the collar and apply pressure so you understand what is being felt on your dogs’ neck. The most common mistake is the person usually fails to release pressure thus desensitizing. A light weight leash with a small swivel and six feet long should accompany the collar or a Flexi retractable 26'. These leashes are used with no tension on the leash or collar other than brief contact to give direction.

This collar is used to send cues or to give direction, also used to give a correction. A correction defined; is to be strong enough to stop the undesired behavior, yet not so strong as to cause the animal to go into avoidance. The other side of this is that if you are jerking the dog around a lot, chances are you nagging the dog while desensitizing. You are not being firm enough or you are giving direction and not being understood.

There is a need for understanding and sensitivity and that's why this collar isn't for everyone. Every time pressure is applied it should be in a fair manner with direction. Meaning downward for down, up for a sit, forward for forward motion, back to stop (that's even steady pressure) back to move back (which is a series of soft motions backwards) Most people bend their arms at the elbow bringing the leash and dogs head up which doesn't really tell or signal the dog as to what you may desire. So the mechanics of communication start with you, don't blame the dog if you are having trouble communicating! The arm should remain straight down, swinging it in a pendulum motion in the direction you intend the dog to go. This horizontal direction can be used to have the dog go in different directions. Try handing the dogs end of the leash to a friend and try giving them direction through the leash not using words or any other communication. If they can understand then apply that to your dog. Do not strangle your friend with the leash or vice versa!

The collar is designed to close (Pinch) evenly around the neck when tension is created through the leash. It simulates or is not unlike when the mother grasps the pup around the neck. Obviously she has teeth and if you have ever watched a mother grasp the young like this then you too may have been amazed at the delicate touch and sensitivity. Refine yours through this visual of the mother, this is in part leadership.

Sizing the collar is also very important for function and safety. They do NOT slip over the head! Open it in the middle by separating two links, place the collar at the throat and come up behind the ears, joining the two halves over lapping. You will see how many links can be removed. It is a safer and quicker action this way as the links cannot cock sideways potentially injuring the dog. The quicker response linked with association of a word or command.

To establish direction on leash, walk away from your dog every time they look away from you (not paying attention) allowing the leash to travel at a horizontal plane. Do not look at your dog other than through peripheral vision. Only speak when the dog joins and looks at you. Preferably to your left side with your left leg parallel to your dogs right front. The dog at this point is with you and not ahead of you where the dog would then liken itself as the leader because of position. (in front)

After mastering this you should do the same again but walking backwards using the word “here” (sharper sound than come) and stopping when the dog arrives. A hand signal should accompany this directing the dog to the center of your body so they focus upon you rather than past you if they came to either side. A very small treat can be used with a secondary reinforcement. I like to praise the dog tickling under the chin causing the head to rise where you can make eye contact while praising. This causes the dog to focus on you. Believe me this is what it’s all about. In any training be relaxed; enjoy what you are doing, if you don’t have much time do several short sessions with two or three repetitions with very positive emotions. Always end on a positive note and don’t do just the same thing like playing with the ball but mix it up for the anticipation it builds. Sometimes a treat then a ball or toy or whatever excites them, have fun!