Understanding Dog Training Tools: Communicating Clearly, Safely, and Effectively

One of the biggest questions I get as a trainer is about the tools we use in balanced dog training. People see a slip lead, prong collar, or e-collar and often wonder:

• “Is that safe?”

• “Will it hurt my dog?”

• “Do I really need that to train my dog?”

The truth is that training tools are communication tools. Dogs don’t speak our language, and while we can teach them verbal cues, tools provide clear, consistent signals that bridge the gap between what we’re asking and what they understand.

When used correctly, training tools are humane, efficient, and effective. They are not meant to harm or scare your dog; instead, they create clarity—helping your dog understand what behaviors are correct and which ones are not.

Let’s take a closer look at three of the most common tools I use and recommend, how they work, and how to use them safely.

1. Slip Leads

A slip lead is a simple yet powerful training tool. It’s essentially a single piece of rope or nylon with a loop on one end and a small leather or rubber stopper to keep the loop in place. While it might look basic, it’s incredibly versatile and effective for teaching dogs about leash pressure and spatial awareness.

Why We Use Slip Leads

• Introducing Leash Pressure: Puppies and untrained dogs often have no idea what a leash means. A slip lead makes it easy to turn pressure on and off to guide them gently in the right direction.

• Quick and Clear Communication: When the dog moves into the correct position, the pressure releases immediately. This creates a black-and-white learning moment: pressure turns on for the wrong behavior, off for the right one. Dog's understand this type of communication exceptionally well.

• Convenience for Handling: Slip leads can be slipped on and off quickly, which makes them a go-to for rescues, vet visits, and structured walks.

  
  

How to Use a Slip Lead Safely

• Fit High on the Neck: Place the loop just behind the dog’s ears at the top of the neck. This position gives the clearest communication without choking the dog. It should be snug enough to stay in place, but not too tight.

• Keep the Leash Loose: Slip leads are not meant to have constant tension. Keep slack in the leash unless you are guiding, redirecting, or giving a gentle tap as a correction.

• Stay Attentive: This tool requires mindful handling. Leaving pressure on accidentally or letting the dog pull against it can be confusing or unsafe.

Slip leads are fantastic for teaching young or untrained dogs to respect leash guidance, but they rely heavily on the handler staying aware and fair. Like any tool, we always make sure our clients are well educated on how to safely use them.

Here is a link to our favorite slip lead.

2. Prong Collars

Prong collars are often misunderstood tools. Their appearance can make them seem harsh, but when properly fitted and used, they are one of the safest and most effective training tools available for leash manners.

Why We Use Prong Collars

• Self-Correcting Design: Prong collars apply even pressure around the dog’s neck when the dog pulls, and that pressure immediately stops when the dog relaxes. This “pressure on/pressure off” communication is simple for dogs to understand.

• Prevents Heavy Leash Pressure: Instead of a dog choking itself on a flat collar or harness, the prong distributes pressure evenly and safely.

• Builds Leash Respect Quickly: Many dogs that drag owners on walks quickly learn that staying near their handler is the most comfortable option. We have seen this tool truly change people's lives and their ability to walk their dogs. Giving their dogs more opportunity for exercise, and the owner a much more pleasant walking experience.

How to Use a Prong Collar Safely

• Use Quality Equipment: We only use and recommend Herm Sprenger prong collars. Please do not buy one from your local pet store as they are often way too big and made of poor material. Cheap or oversized collars can break or injure your dog, so we do suggest investing in a high quality one such as Herm Sprenger.

• Fit High and Snug: The collar should sit just behind the ears, not hanging low on the neck. the flat plate should be in the front of the dogs neck. A proper fit ensures even, safe pressure.

• Avoid Constant Tension: A prong collar is not for dragging a dog around. It needs to be used carefully and responsibly. Keep a loose leash and only give light, momentary input when guiding or correcting.

• Supervise Use: Never leave a prong collar on when your dog is unsupervised, playing, or crated. It’s a training tool, not an everyday collar.

  
  

Prong collars provide clear communication with minimal effort, making walks calmer, safer, and more enjoyable for both dog and handler. Here is a link for the prong collar. We recommend sticking to the 2.25mm size for dogs up to 80lbs and just adding additional links if more length is required.

3. E-Collars (Remote Collars)

The e-collar is the tool that opens the door to true off-leash freedom. Modern e-collars are highly adjustable, humane communication devices, not the outdated “shock collars” people fear.

Why We Use E-Collars

• Reliable Off-Leash Control: An e-collar allows you to communicate at a distance, making recalls reliable even in high-distraction environments.

• Enhances Safety: If your dog bolts toward a road, wildlife, or another dog, an e-collar is often the only instant, reliable way to get their attention. Having a recall that you are able to enforce with an e collar when your dog is off leash is imperative to your dogs safety.

• Supports Clear Training Communication: We pair e-collar training with a solid obedience foundation, using it to reinforce known commands rather than punish mistakes.

  
  

How to Use an E-Collar Safely

• Start with Foundation Training: Dogs should understand leash communication and basic obedience before introducing an e-collar. Making sure that the dog understands what they are being asked is very important.

• Work at Low Levels: Modern e-collars (like the one we recommend) have levels from 0–100. Most dogs comfortably work between 0 and 20, which feels like a gentle vibration rather than a "shock"

• Test It on Yourself First: We always have owners feel the stimulation in their hand before using it on their dog to understand the sensation. It feels similar to a stim machine!

  
  

When layered properly over obedience, the e-collar becomes a lifeline for off-leash adventures, giving both you and your dog freedom with safety and confidence. The e collar that we love the most is linked here!

The Bottom Line: Tools Build Communication, Not Fear

Every dog is unique. Some may only need a slip lead, while others thrive with a combination of tools. But the purpose of every tool is the same:

• To create clear communication

• To build confidence and structure

• To give your dog more freedom, not less

When used fairly, attentively, and correctly, training tools do not harm your dog—they empower them to succeed. A well-trained, confident dog is one that can enjoy more of life by your side, whether that’s in the neighborhood or on the hiking trail.