spiked collars

[simba_N_keko]

What are the rules concerning spiked dog collars in the park? I was at the park a few weekends ago when a bunch of old ladies came to me accusing me of promoting dog fighting because I choose to let my dogs wear spiked collars. I think this is a common stereotype where ppl associate spiked collars with aggression. Why would the Government allow the sale of spiked collars in local pet stores if they are harmfull?

[LWilson]

To my knowledge wearing a spiked collar is allowed in the park.

RE the perception of promoting agression by the use of a spike collar- properly referred to as a prong collar - This is in my view a perception and not necessarly reality. As a trainer I have seen many more agressive dogs that wear a plain snap/buckle collar or a head halter (halti/gentle leaders/easy way) than a prong collar. Prong collars - properly used can be a very humane piece of equipment. In fact any equipment including regular collars and choke collars used improperly or not fitted propery can be inhumane and harmfull!

Agression in my experience is not a result of the equipmeent used but by the attitdue and behaviour of the OWNER of the dog. Most of the dogs that I see that are lunging at other dogs..or people ..i.e. acting agressively are on regular equipment. It is in fact the lack of effective training.....and the owners not maintaining their leadership position with their dogs - that leads to agressive, out of control behaviour.

Cesar Milan in his book Be the Pack Leader -has a good description of various types of equipment, their uses and common myths about them. FYI- his approach to how to become your dog's leader and teach them good behaviour and manners is important reading for all dog owners.

Lorraine Wilson
4 PAWS Training & Pet Services
Training, Day Care, Grooming

Drop by and sees us at the Winter Carnival - K9Kapers event- Sun. Feb. 7th 1:00-3:30
- we'd love to address your training/behaviour questions-

[DavidW]

Thanks Lorraine. What about collars that spike out? If you do a search of google images for "spiked collar" there is a lot of nasty stuff out there. Some websites are promoting them as perfect to protect your dog in off leash parks. Seems to me they could be harmful to other dogs when they are playing?

[BRT]

http://www.rhk9klub.ca/?page_id=247

Additional tips for the park:
◦Training (prong and choke) & spiked collars should be removed while in the park to prevent injury.

[Marcel S]

Hi simba_N_Keko,

I feel any metal collars should be removed when you enter the park because when the dogs are playing and biting each other’s necks they could break their teeth. I love spike collars! My dog is is not agressive at all! I like how my dog looks scary wearing one, but I always remove it before I enter the park for fear of another dog breaking their teeth while they play. Dogs love to bite each other’s necks for some reason.