Herm Sprenger 2.25 Chrome Pinch / Spike / Prong Collar Small

Helpful Training Tool
Yes, I was absolutely hesitant to use these collars initially. I avoided it and probably “over treated” my two pups trying to train them, but maybe I was actually bribing them. I had two dog trainers recommend this collar and I understand others may not. My two pups are 7 different breeds (did the dog dna testing) and they are large dogs. They are super, incredibly sweet, loving dogs. I was afraid I would cause them to distrust me and I was afraid I would eliminate some of their loving, sweet natures by using this training collar. I was, very thankfully, so wrong. Because they are large puppies (67lbs and 80lbs), they do not know their own strength, get over-excited, and are more focused on getting what they want than on their training walks. Used correctly, and I sincerely mean correctly, they are fabulous training tools. I must also admit they are terrific safety features for me since my dogs will not take off after a squirrel or anything else while I walk them with these collars. I quickly believed all the information in the many, many YouTube videos I watched and told by the trainers I noted. These collars are a very humane way to train dogs. Again, this is only true when used properly. Admittedly, I originally figured these collars were worth a try and I did not have to continue using them if I did not want to or if I did not like them. Before I used these collars, I used harnesses that were designed to reduce pulling when walking. I would practically “fight” them trying to restrict their moving forward, sideways, or any direction they wanted to take me. My pups did not understand why they were being limited and it was a continuous battle. Truthfully, walks were not fun nor too bonding for us. Once I used these collars, they learned almost immediately that they have control over their correction. It helped them choose to walk well and focus on our walking. Yes, I heard two light yelps the very first time. Yeah, I hated it. I knew they were not hurt or choked at all. They were surprised. Do you blame them? They did not know what these collars were and they were used to tugging me along on walks. That was the only slight yelp I’ve heard since using them. My neck, shoulders, and back also thank these collars. Most importantly, my dogs actually like them. Sincerely. They know every time we go on a walk they wear them. I pull out the collars and they are genuinely excited. They are very well behaved on our urban streets and I get compliments for my just turned 1 year old dogs. I will emphasize one more time that the collar must be used as the training tool for which it is designed. Following the dog trainers’ instructions will make these collars pleasant. It helps my dogs to know their limits, correct themselves (they have the control), and get to enjoy our walks. And, yes, I give treats with these collars on while walking when they do what I ask like sit at a corner. I really do not use the collars for more than leash walking. I noticed that using them for walks was enough for my dogs to train better with me in other settings.These collars are well made. They are strong. They are very sturdy. I appreciate that they come in black. These collars are stronger and more secure than the ones I see in pet stores. Like any training collar, they will fail some day. Because of that, I use a carabiner to connect them to their regular collar when walking. I also purchased additional hooks so that I can avoid that potential day by changing hooks out.

All it’s cracked up to be
I’ve been following a lot of professional dog trainers who rave on about this brand of prong collar, I see why now.Not only is there huge customization options that no other prong brand offers (chrome, black, & gold metal options, various widths for any size of dog, etc). I also purchased quick release buckles that I switched out the middle plate this model offers because I prefer that feature to a collar I’m regularly taking off & on. For my pit mix who has a 16” neck I kept 2 prongs on each side and it fits her well even with all her extra skin, also shown is the amount of slack it gives her, a healthy 2-finger gap. I also purchased one for my husky mix and he has about 1” less in diameter in his neck, and has 1 less Link. They both walk beautiful in this. There’s next to no slipping on the neck, it stays where you put it which the last collar of another brand I had certainly did not, despite it obviously being fitted the same. The links are easy to remove, coming from a small female with 0 grip strength. A grandma could pinch the links and take them apart, it’s very straightforward. Quality is great and well worth the price, I see these collars standing the test of time. They’re not too heavy, and not light and flimsy either. If there’s any problems I run into I’ll be sure to update this review, if I don’t update, they’re still perfect!

This collar fit my female boxer well with only removing one prong, I love the added buckle for quick on and off but wish there was a way the button slider wasn’t able to completely fall off when open, it sort of just sits there so you have to be careful when it is unlatched. I like the black coating instead of the silver style, it sort of blends in with her coat and is less noticeable. She definitely walks better and is less willing to pull but she is still learning and adjusting to the new collar, so far I am pleased with this purchase.

Great quality, helps with leash pulling