Thank you Eileen Anderson for writing an informative blog on the physics of a prong collar.
Please see additional note at the bottom of the post.
Dog guardians searching for effective leash solutions are often told that prong collars are a “gentler” alternative to traditional collars—but a closer look reveals a very different reality. Why Prong Collars Hurt is not a matter of opinion or training philosophy; it’s a matter of basic physics and anatomy. Understanding how force and pressure interact on a dog’s neck helps explain why these devices can cause significant discomfort and risk, even when used “correctly.”
In Why Prong Collars Hurt, we explore how concentrated pressure affects sensitive structures in the neck and why tools that rely on pain or discomfort can undermine both physical safety and emotional well-being. While some equipment spreads force broadly across the body, prong collars focus it into multiple small contact points, dramatically increasing pressure where dogs are most vulnerable.
If you’ve ever wondered whether prong collars are truly safe—or why so many veterinarians and behavior professionals advise against them—Why Prong Collars Hurt breaks it down in a clear, evidence-based way. By comparing collar designs through real-world examples and simple science, this discussion cuts through myths and marketing claims.
