Collar is one of the most indispensable tools for your Labrador training. A collar is a piece of material, could be made of nylon, metal, cotton or leather, and placed around the neck of a dog. It is often used for control, identification, fashion and other purposes. Imagine taking your dog for a walk without a collar and a leash. Your curious little one may end up running everywhere without thinking of his safety. What if a speeding car is coming towards him? Poor little dog... Identification is another purpose of your dog's collar. Information such as dog's name, owner's name and address are placed on dog collars so that in case of loss, there is a greater chance of seeing your dog again. No more poor owners worriedly looking for there lost dogs in every corner of the street.

There are different types of collars. There are basic collars as well as training collars. The different training collars are as follows:

Slip collars

Slip collars are also termed choke chains, slip chains or choke collars. They are often made of braided nylon, cotton or leather and form a loop around the top of the dog's neck, just behind the ears. The leash is attached to the ring that goes over the back of the dog's neck. The ring could either be dead or live ring. When the leash is attached to the dead ring, the collar does not constrict on the dog's neck. However, attach it to the live ring and the chain will slip tighter when pulled and slips looser when the tension is released. It is important that you know the proper use of this collar because improper may lead to injury and even death of your beloved companion.

Prong collar

Prong collars are also termed pinch collars. This is used to control or correct the dog by yanking on its neck if he does not comply. Prong collars are series of chain links with blunted open ends turned towards the dog's neck. When the collar is tightened, it pinches the loose skin around the dog's neck. Prong collars can also be turned inside out with the prongs facing away from the dog's skin. Some trainers place rubber tips on the end of the prongs to protect your dog's skin from scratching or puncturing.

Martingale collars

Martingale collar has two loops; the smaller one is the control loop which tightens gently when pulled to prevent dogs from slipping out of the collar. Martingale collar has limited constriction on the dog's neck and applies even pressure.

Electronic collars

Electronic collars are sometimes called remote and shock collars. To correct the dog, electronic collars deliver an electrical stimulus to the dog. The level of stimulus varies depending on the dog. If the dog continues to disobey, the intensity is increased.

Whatever the type of collar you are going to use on your Labrador training, it is always important to consider the proper use and fit of the collar. The collar should not be too loose or too tight for your dog. And do not forget to ask an expert on the proper use of these collars.