Training equipment can be used either for communication or for aversive control. The best equipment is that which accomplishes the training goal, in a timely manner, with the least possible physical intrusion on the dog. Training equipment should never cause physical harm, undue physical or emotional distress, or prolonged discomfort to the dog. It should be as easy as possible for the owner to use, to maximize the chance it will be used correctly.

Equipment that goes on a dog's body, such as a collar, must be fitted properly to be effective, safe, and humane. A collar should be snug enough not to slip off - but not so tight that it chafes the dog's neck at rest or causes the dog to gasp or choke. (When a dog pulls hard against even a properly fitted flat collar, the resulting pressure on the airway can cause a gag response. This should not be confused with the gasping or choking caused by a collar that is continuously too tight.)

Collars, halters, and harnesses should be checked before each use to make sure they are in good repair and fitted correctly. Incorrectly fitting any of these items can result in discomfort, injury or escape. Collars and halters should not be used to lift the dog's body off the floor. This section refers only to equipment that is being used for training. Common sense should always be employed in selecting and using equipment.

Trainers should:

  • Know how to fit equipment and be able to demonstrate its use.
  • Have a plan for how equipment will help accomplish a training goal, and be able to explain this plan to others.
  • Select the least aversive piece of equipment expected to be effective, following the principles of training theory set out in Section 2.
  • Be open to trying different types of equipment if the initial choice does not work well, elicits unwanted behaviors, or causes undue hardship to the dog.
  • Educate owners about different types of equipment and allow them to help decide what equipment will be used in training their dogs.
  • Not modify equipment in ways that make it unsafe for the dog, the handler, or passers-by. Not add sharply pointed studs, or any other items whose purpose is to cause pain, to collars or harnesses.