Question
We grew up using check chains (also known as choke chains) on our dogs (responsibly, or so I thought). There are articles like this one (Flying Paws Dog Training) saying these chains should never be used in training. I really am unsure what to think.
When training big dogs, it's important to have some control over them. I can understand how a small dog could be hurt by incorrect use of a check chain, but some big dogs have pretty strong necks.
- Are check chains truly bad for a dog's health?
- Is there statistical research to back this up?
- What effective physical control substitutes exist for check chains?
Answer
I would personally advice against the use of Choke chains on dogs. First of all, what is the benefit of choke collars, It teaches the dog what you want it to know faster but this can still be achieved using normal methods and with more patience.
Choke chains have been scientifically proven to cause Injured ocular blood vessels, Tracheal and oesophageal damage, Severely sprained necks, Cases of fainting, Asphyxiation, Transient foreleg paralysis, Laryngeal nerve paralysis and Hind leg ataxia. (source)
Quotes stating why choke chains are bad for the health of a dog.
In a retrospective study on spinal pain, injury or changes in dogs conducted in Sweden, Hallgreen (1992) found that 91% of dogs with cervical anomalies experienced harsh jerks on lead or had a long history of pulling on the lead. Uses of chokers was also over represented in this group. This strongly suggests that such corrections are potentially injurious.
- Karren Overall MA, VMD, PhD, DACVB Clinical Behavioural Medicine for Small Animals.
(source)
Alarming facts from a recent survey [..] 63% of the dogs examined had neck and spinal injuries. [..] 78% of the dogs with aggression or over activity problems had neck and spinal injuries. [..] Of the dogs with neck injuries, 91% had experienced hard jerks on a leash or had strained against their leashes. [..] The study concludes that leash corrections, the dog forging ahead or a tethered pet hitting the end of a solid line may inflict spinal injury. [..] The study was conducted on 400 dogs
- Scotty Valadoa, Accredited Animal behaviorist.
(source)
Although Choke chains is a very effective way of Negative Reinforcement, It has its own consequences on the dog. LET'S TEACH THEM NOT CHOKE THEM. Instead of using a choke chain. I'll advice a
- Flat Collar
- Head Collar
- Harness
Positive Reinforcement should also be used for your dog.
Answered By - user34