In a collar and leash-based training program, the dog is taught a particular behavior with a leash. After the dog demonstrates that it understand the command, the leash is used to correct the dog if it disobeys or makes a mistake. The leash acts as a control and communication tool.

The ideal size for a training collar should fit snugly and comfortably over the dogs head. It is important that the training collar not be too tight or too loose. A tight collar is difficult to put on and off while a loose collar may just fall off the dogs head when it lowers its head.

The basic dog training collar is also known as choke collar, choke chain, training collar, correction collar and slip collar. These are the more popular collars used by both amateur and professional dog trainers.

The proper measurements
To get a properly fitted training collar, it is best to measure your dogs neck with a tape measure. Make sure that that tape measure is not too tight around your dogs neck. The training collar must fit snugly, but not too tight. Add 2 to 3 inches to that measurement. For example, if your dogs neck is 10 inches in diameter, then get a training collar that is 12 inches in diameter.

Chain slip collars are usually sized in 2-inch increments. Most training collars come in even sizes. So if your dogs neck is an odd number, you should round up to the next size. For example, if your dog has a 13-inch neck, you would buy a 14-inch collar, and so on.

It is also important that the pressure on the training collar can be instantly relieved when the leash is slackened. If you are unsure which collar to choose, ask a professional dog trainer or the staff at your local pet store.

The training collar must also be put on the dog the right way. Unlike a normal buckle collar, there is a right way and wrong way of putting on a training collar. Putting on the wrong way can make the collar ineffective or even dangerous.

Here are some considerations when choosing a training collar:
Fit It is essential that the training collar fits your dog properly. It will be easier to use and safer for your dog.
Wear Putting on a collar the wrong way is potentially dangerous and ineffective.
Use A training collar should be used as a sharp reminder and not a punishment. Remember not to place constant pressure when using a training collar.
Weight & Size The weight should be in proportion to your dogs size and weight.
Placement It is important to properly place the collar on your dog. The collar must be place on the dog properly for it to be effective.

Temporary measures
It is also important to purchase a training collar that is well-made and strong. A high quality training collar is crucial to your dog and your safety. If your dogs training collar ever breaks, do not panic. Most dogs are not aware that they have broken the collar for a few minutes. In most cases, just act as if the leash is still connected. This way, you can probably still get control of your dog quickly.

Otherwise, make a quick slip by snapping the leash through its handle and then slip over the dogs head. That may not be the best arrangement but its a good, quick fix.