Dog Collars: The Hazards of Choke Chains

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Choke chains are collars that tighten around a dog’s neck when they pull on the leash. This is intended to discourage the dog from pulling but can also cause serious injuries. Never leave a choke chain on a dog; better yet, don’t use choke chains at all. If you question this conclusion, check out these hazards:

The hazards of choke chains include:

Tracheal damage. The choke chain can put pressure on the trachea, which can cause bruising, swelling, and even collapse. This can make it difficult for the dog to breathe and, in severe cases, can be fatal.
Neck injuries. The choke chain can also cause neck injuries, such as sprains, strains, and fractures. In some cases, the choke chain can even break the dog’s neck.
Psychological damage. The use of a choke chain can cause a dog to become fearful, anxious, or even aggressive. This is because the dog learns to associate the choke chain with pain and discomfort.

There are many safer alternatives to choke chains, such as head halters, front-clip harnesses, and martingale collars. These collars are designed to control a dog without causing pain or discomfort.

If you are considering using a choke chain on your dog, I urge you to reconsider. There are many safer and more humane ways to train your dog.

Here are some additional information about the hazards of choke chains:

Choke chains should never be used on puppies or dogs with neck injuries.
Choke chains should always be fitted properly. The collar should be snug enough to prevent the dog from slipping out but not so tight that it causes discomfort.
Choke chains should never be left on a dog unsupervised. If the dog gets caught on something, the collar could tighten and cause serious injury.

I have personal experience with the third bullet point. Many years ago, I couldn’t find my dog, Pride. She didn’t come when called, and she always did. When I found her, I panicked. Pride had managed to catch her chain in one of the knobs of the lower kitchen cabinets. It had wrapped completely around it, and Pride was no longer breathing. It was twisted so tight I couldn’t get her free. Fortunately, I had a set of wire cutters in a nearby drawer, and I cut the chain.

My beloved Pride dropped to the floor and sucked in a deep breath. I wasn’t too late. From that day forward, I never again used a choke chain and never again had round knobs on my lower kitchen cabinets. Incidentally, even regular collars can get caught on those knobs. Make sure to remove and replace them with a pull handle.

If you are having trouble with your dog pulling on the leash, many positive reinforcement training methods can help. Please consult with a qualified dog trainer for more information. Speaking of which, nothing in this article applies to the use of pinch or prong collars when deployed by professionals.

by Michael J. Scott

Featured Image: Dog Central

About Post Author

Professor Mike

Professor Mike is a left-leaning, dog loving, political junkie. He has written dozens of articles for Substack, Medium, Simily, and Tribel. Professor Mike has been published at Smerconish.com, among others. He is a strong proponent of the environment, and a passionate protector of animals. In addition he is a fierce anti-Trumper. Take a moment and share his work.

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