Border collies are widely considered one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They were originally bred as herding dogs, using their focus, energy, stamina and responsiveness to control sheep and other livestock. The same traits that make them excellent herders also give them limitless potential as active companion dogs – but with their high intelligence and working drive comes the need for proper training and management. This is where the right collar and lead can make all the difference. In this article we talk about Border Collies Practical Collars-Training and Control.
The Value of Proper Equipment for Training Border Collies
A border collie who is not sufficiently stimulated and challenged can become frustrated and develop problem behaviors like destructiveness, excessive barking, hyperactivity, or aggression. They need substantial daily exercise as well as regular training and interactive play to be happy, balanced companions. The right collar and lead provides critical leverage and communication to reinforce commands, correct misbehavior, and control the dog during training and exercise. This establishes the leadership and guidance the border collie craves while preventing problem behavior from developing in the first place.
Slip Leads for Training and Control
A slip lead is one of the most versatile, effective everyday tools for training and managing intelligent, energetic breeds like the border collie. Slip leads are made of one continuous loop of nylon or leather that tightens around the dog’s neck when tension is applied, then instantly loosens again when pressure is released – allowing you to “slip” it on and off over the head easily.
Slip leads provide clearer communication and faster response from the dog compared to standard clip-on collars and leads. The tension applied evenly around their neck gets their attention effectively without discomfort or choking. Proper use involves quick light tension and immediate release to reinforce commands. This builds drive and enthusiasm for work and interaction within a structured setting.
Slip leads are ideal for:
- Training courses like agility where control needs to be precise and responsive
- Walking/exercising where frequent tightening/loosening provides clearer communication
- Emergency situations where gaining instant focused attention is critical
Nylon slip leads are lightweight and comfortable for everyday use. Leather provides finer control for advanced training but requires more care. It’s essential to learn proper techniques for using slip leads humanely before engaging in training.
Pinch/Prong Training Collars
Prong or pinch collars provide another effective option for communication and control with intelligent, strong breeds like border collies. They are designed to get the dog’s attention and increase their focus on the handler. This establishes important leadership structure while making training more effective and efficient.
Pinch collars have rounded or blunted metal fang-shaped protrusions that apply pressure evenly around the dog’s neck when tension is applied. This pressure replicates the nip from a mother dog or dominant pack member – getting the dog’s attention instantly without actual biting or excessive physical force. The fang design disperses pressure to eliminate choking while preventing damage to the trachea or thyroid.
By replicating natural canine communication methods, pinch collars decrease resistance behaviors in training. A quick light correction is often all that’s needed to reinforce commands or discourage misbehavior. This reduces frustration for both dog and handler. With proper introduction and use, most dogs respond well and show no signs of discomfort.
It’s extremely important that pinch collars are the right size and fitted properly high up behind the ears. The tension should be a quick “stimulus” not continuous force. Handlers must be educated on proper correction techniques. Used humanely by a competent trainer, pinch collars provide effective, ethical communication. More positive methods should be employed with soft or fearful dogs unsuited to pinch corrections.
Head Collars for Increased Control
For border collies that tend to pull excessively or react with sudden lunging or chasing, head collars provide additional control while keeping walks safe and relaxing. Brands like Gentle Leader and Halti fit securely over the muzzle with straps behind the ears and around the neck. Applying light tension downward on the leash creates pressure around the collar that naturally causes the dog to slow down or stop. This turns their head toward you – redirecting their attention without discomfort or choking.
Because redirection comes from controlling the direction of the head, dogs resist pressure from head collars less than traditional collars. The tension is also dispersed evenly to eliminate trachea damage from pulling and lunging. Head collars give handlers of large, powerful breeds much better control while keeping walks more pleasurable.
It does take conditioning for dogs to adjust to wearing a head collar. It’s vital to introduce them slowly with ample rewards. Taking the time to accustom your border collie to a head collar will provide major dividends in easier, more relaxing walks for years to come.
The Right Tools Allow Better Communication and a Happier Companion
Border collies are working dogs to their core. Without constructive outlets for their intelligence and energy, they become destructive, hyperactive and stressed. Providing proper exercise, training and direction prevents these issues while building a stronger bond between dog and handler.
The right collar and lead allows the precise, effective communication with your border collie that makes training more rewarding for you both. Whether a slip lead for everyday walks, a pinch collar for focused obedience training, or a head collar to manage pulling, having the proper tool for each situation will set you both up for success. This lets your bright, energetic companion reach their full potential as an engaged, well-behaved pet that enjoys life to the fullest. The payoff for you is a happier, healthier border collie that enriches your life immeasurably for years to come. I sincerely hope you find this “Border Collies Practical Collars-Training and Control” article helpful.
