An interview with Megan Staub, RVT, CPDT-KA
When selecting a new collar, harness, and leash for your pet, recognizing the correct use for each tool is vital. Our Pet Services Manager, Megan Staub, is a Certified Professional Dog Trainer and Registered Veterinary Technician who has a vast knowledge of these training tools. She has been with Pampered Pets Inn since 2017 and has been leading the Training Program since 2019, so we sat down with her to discuss frequently asked questions regarding training tools.
What are the main types of leashes and collars you recommend for daily use? Why?
“My recommendation for leashes and collars depends on the temperament of each pet. For calm, well-trained dogs, your goal should be a Standard Flat collar and a 4-foot leash. For dogs in training, the tool can vary. I like to use harnesses, Gentle Leaders, or Martingale Collars. Harnesses are great for dogs with a high prey drive, as they allow the handler more control of the dog. Gentle Leaders are great for dogs that are reactive and/or excitable on leash. Martingale collars are best for dogs that can back out of their collar or harness easily. They are specifically made for dogs with smaller heads and skinny necks, such as Greyhounds, and tighten whenever the dog pulls.”
How do I choose the right collar or harness for a specific dog’s size, breed, or temperament?
“Understanding your pet’s behavior and the uses of each collar and harness is key to selecting the correct tool for your pet. When working with large dogs with a high activity level, our training team typically leans towards using a Gentle Leader, as this provides the most control without causing any negative association for the pet. When working with small dogs, using a harness of any kind is typical.”
Are there any types of leashes or collars you don’t recommend?
“In terms of collars, it is important to note that, while Correction Collars (Choke Collars, Prong Collars, and E-Collars) can be useful, they are not suited for Positive Reinforcement Training, and the handler must be properly trained to avoid injury or misuse. When discussing leashes, retractable leashes pose the biggest safety concern for both the pet and the human handler. The rough material of the cord and high speed of movement can create the potential for entanglement and, subsequently, cuts or burns. The abrupt stop of the leash can also cause strain to a pet’s head, neck, and spine. As there is a lack of control with these leashes, dogs can go around corners before their handler, which contributes to the potential of danger.”
Do you recommend any tools specifically for leash reactivity?
“Our team has had the most success using a combination a Gentle Leader and a harness fitted with a handle. The Gentle Leader provides the most control of the body with positive reinforcement, and the harness acts as an additional tool if needed.”
What should we look for to ensure a proper fit for collars?
“The general rule of thumb is to ensure a one to two-finger distance between the collar and your pet’s skin. For the Gentle Leader, specifically, it is best to maintain a tighter one finger distance high on your pet’s neck, while the muzzle strap should be loose enough to reach the beginning of the fleshy part of the nose.”
Are there signs that a leash or collar might be causing discomfort or injury?
“If the tool is removing hair, causing abrasions, or leaving indents or red marks, it may be causing discomfort or injury to your pet.”
Is there a difference in what tools you’d recommend for puppies vs. adult dogs?
“When starting training at any age, there is no difference in recommendations. However, always be aware that the personality changes while a pet ages can cause a need for change in tools.”
If you have any questions about training tools or are interested in working with our training team, contact us at info@pamperedpetsinn.com. We will help build a program that best fits you and your pet’s needs.
Happy training!