Quick Summary:
Prong collars are controversial training tools that many Australian veterinarians and behaviourists strongly discourage. This article explores expert opinions, the physical and psychological risks of using prong collars, and the legal restrictions in various Australian states. Backed by veterinary guidance, it offers practical, humane alternatives to ensure your dog’s safety and behavioural success—without fear or force.
Key Takeaways
- Veterinary professionals in Australia largely do not recommend prong collars due to the risk of physical harm and behavioural trauma.
- Leading organisations like the RSPCA and AVA oppose the use of aversive tools, including prong and shock collars, in favour of humane training techniques.
- Evidence-backed alternatives, such as front-clip harnesses and positive reinforcement methods, are encouraged for long-term success.
- Australian legislation varies by state, but there's a growing push to regulate or ban harmful training devices.
- Consulting a vet or certified behavioural trainer is essential before choosing any training gear—especially for dogs with behavioural issues.
Introduction
When training a dog, choosing the right tools is just as important as the techniques used. Among the most debated tools is the prong collar, sometimes referred to as a pinch collar. Designed with metal links that tighten and press into a dog’s neck when tension is applied, prong collars have long divided opinion among pet owners, trainers, and veterinary professionals.
In Australia, where animal welfare standards are increasingly prioritised, more pet owners are asking whether prong collars are ethical, safe, or even legal. And more importantly—do vets actually recommend prong collars?
This article explores the veterinary perspective on prong collars, the science behind their use and risks, and better alternatives supported by experts. Whether you're a new dog owner or struggling with an unruly pup, the information below will help you make informed, humane choices for your pet’s training and wellbeing.
What Is a Prong Collar?
A prong collar, also known as a pinch collar, is a type of dog training tool made of a series of metal links with inward-facing prongs. When tension is applied—typically through a leash correction or the dog pulling—the collar tightens slightly around the neck, causing the prongs to press into the skin.
The design is intended to mimic the natural corrective nipping behavior that dogs might experience from their mothers or pack members. Advocates argue that this method provides a more "natural" correction without choking the dog. However, critics—including many veterinarians and animal behaviourists—raise concerns about the pain, fear, and injury that can result from improper or even standard use.
Originally developed for working dogs or those with strong pulling tendencies, prong collars have become more commonly used among general pet owners—especially when facing behavioural challenges like leash reactivity or excessive pulling.
But just because a tool exists doesn't mean it's the best option. Understanding how prong collars function and the risks involved is crucial for anyone considering them.
Do Australian Vets Recommend Prong Collars?
The consensus among veterinarians in Australia is clear: prong collars are not recommended. Their use is widely discouraged by leading veterinary associations, animal welfare groups, and behaviour experts who prioritise humane, evidence-based approaches to dog training.
Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) Position
The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) promotes positive reinforcement methods and opposes the use of aversive tools such as prong collars. In their formal guidelines on animal welfare and training, the AVA emphasises:
"Training techniques that cause pain or fear are unnecessary and may compromise the animal’s welfare."
Prong collars fall squarely into this category. According to the AVA, training methods should be kind, humane, and based on modern behavioural science—not intimidation or discomfort.
RSPCA Australia’s Official Stance
The RSPCA is even more direct. It openly opposes the use of prong collars, shock collars, and choke chains. In their guide to humane dog training, RSPCA Australia states:
"These collars can cause pain and fear and may lead to long-term behavioural issues. Their use is not only unnecessary but can be harmful."
Instead, the organisation advocates for reward-based training, calling it the most effective and welfare-friendly approach for both puppies and adult dogs.
RSPCA’s website also encourages the public to choose equipment that avoids causing pain or fear, highlighting front-clip harnesses and head collars as safe alternatives.
What Australian Veterinarians Say
Many practising vets echo these views based on their clinical experiences. For instance:
- Dr. Jo Righetti, an animal behaviourist and vet based in Sydney, often speaks about how prong collars can exacerbate anxiety and aggression in dogs.
- Dr. Katrina Warren, one of Australia’s most recognisable vets, supports the use of positive training methods, noting that “aversive tools like prong collars may shut down behaviours, but they don’t teach better ones.”
A Shift Toward Fear-Free Practice
Australia has seen a growing adoption of the Fear Free® movement, which originated in the US but is gaining traction among Australian veterinary professionals. This approach promotes strategies that minimise fear, anxiety, and stress in animals. Prong collars are considered incompatible with this philosophy.
In 2021, the Pet Professional Guild Australia (PPGA) released a position statement noting:
“There is no need for tools designed to cause pain or discomfort to train a dog effectively.”
This aligns with the global veterinary trend toward science-based, force-free training philosophies.
Potential Risks and Harms of Prong Collars
While prong collars are marketed as "safe when used correctly," veterinary experts and animal behaviourists consistently highlight the risks—many of which can be long-lasting or irreversible. Even when applied by experienced handlers, these collars can cause physical pain, emotional distress, and behavioural regression in dogs.
Physical Injuries
Prong collars are designed to distribute pressure around the dog’s neck using blunt metal prongs. However, the pressure is concentrated enough to result in injury. Common physical issues reported by veterinarians include:
- Bruising and soft tissue damage
- Puncture wounds or abrasions from the metal prongs
- Collapsed trachea or damage to the windpipe
- Spinal misalignment or neck injuries, particularly in smaller breeds or puppies
- Eye problems, such as increased intraocular pressure from neck constriction
One study published in the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association found that dogs trained with aversive tools showed higher levels of cortisol, indicating increased stress responses compared to those trained with reward-based methods.
Psychological Effects
Prong collars often work by creating fear or discomfort. But what appears to be quick compliance is often stress-induced suppression, not true learning. This can lead to:
- Fear-based aggression: The dog may become reactive, especially toward triggers associated with pain (e.g. other dogs, bicycles, or children).
- Learned helplessness: Dogs may give up trying to engage or explore, resulting in shutdown behaviour.
- Increased anxiety and mistrust of both the handler and the environment.
According to Dr. Zazie Todd, PhD, author of Wag: The Science of Making Your Dog Happy, tools like prong collars may “suppress behaviour without addressing its root cause, leading to more serious behavioural issues later.”
Behavioural Regression
Dogs subjected to physical discomfort during training may begin to generalise that discomfort to their surroundings. Over time, they may:
- Refuse to go on walks
- Become reactive when the collar is visible
- Develop leash aggression from negative associations
- Exhibit pacing, whining, or submissive urination
In short, prong collars can make the behavioural issues they aim to resolve even worse.
Long-Term Implications
Injuries and trauma aside, dogs trained with prong collars are often less confident, less socialised, and less trusting of their owners. These tools do not teach what to do—they only punish what not to do, often creating confusion in the dog.
For Australian pet owners seeking long-term wellbeing for their dogs, the risks of using a prong collar outweigh any perceived short-term gains.
Why Some Trainers Still Use Them (And What Vets Think of That)
Despite overwhelming opposition from veterinarians and animal welfare organisations, a small group of dog trainers in Australia and internationally continue to promote prong collars as effective tools—especially for managing strong, reactive, or “stubborn” dogs. These trainers often argue that, when used correctly, prong collars offer clarity in communication and quick control. But what does the veterinary and behavioural science community say about that?
The Case Trainers Make
Proponents of prong collars often defend their use with the following claims:
-
“It’s not painful if used correctly.”
They argue that the design mimics a mother dog’s corrective nip and that, in skilled hands, it causes “pressure,” not pain. -
“It stops dangerous behaviour quickly.”
For dogs that pull hard or exhibit aggression, some trainers claim that prong collars prevent injury to both dog and handler. -
“They’re tools, not torture.”
This group often emphasizes that any training tool can be abusive if misused—including flat collars, harnesses, or even treats. -
“Some dogs don’t respond to positive methods.”
They maintain that prong collars offer a last resort when reward-based training has failed.
This logic appeals to owners who feel overwhelmed, especially those dealing with large, reactive breeds or rescue dogs with traumatic pasts.
What Veterinarians and Behaviourists Say in Response
While vets acknowledge that behaviour problems can be challenging, the veterinary consensus is that pain-based tools are not necessary—nor ethical—in achieving long-term behaviour change.
Dr. Kate Mornement, an Australian applied animal behaviourist, notes:
“The problem with aversive tools like prong collars is that they address symptoms, not the cause. A dog may stop pulling, but not because it’s learned what’s appropriate—only because it’s scared of the consequence.”
Veterinarians also point out that owners are rarely trained in correct use. Misuse—tightening the collar too much, jerking the leash, or using it on the wrong dog type—is not only common, it’s dangerous.
Scientific Studies Disagree with Aversive Claims
A 2017 study in PLOS ONE comparing aversive training techniques with reward-based methods found:
- Dogs trained using punishment or aversive stimuli displayed more signs of stress (e.g. lip licking, yawning, lowered posture).
- Those trained with rewards exhibited better learning outcomes and stronger relationships with their owners.
This mirrors the growing movement in Australia and globally toward force-free dog training, underpinned by peer-reviewed research, rather than anecdotal trainer claims.
The Ethical Debate
Ethically, the use of pain to gain compliance is increasingly at odds with Australia’s modern understanding of companion animal welfare. As pet guardians, owners are expected to prioritise not just obedience, but the emotional wellbeing of their animals.
Alternatives Vets Recommend for Dog Training
Rather than relying on tools that cause discomfort or fear, Australian veterinarians and behaviourists overwhelmingly endorse humane, science-backed alternatives. These methods and tools aim to promote cooperation, build trust, and improve a dog’s behaviour without compromising welfare.
Positive Reinforcement: The Gold Standard
At the heart of modern dog training is positive reinforcement—rewarding desired behaviours with treats, praise, toys, or play. This method not only improves compliance but also strengthens the bond between dog and owner.
Positive reinforcement training is supported by:
- The Australian Veterinary Association (AVA)
- RSPCA Australia
- Delta Society Australia (provider of accredited positive training courses)
- Pet Professional Guild Australia (PPGA)
According to Dr. Kersti Seksel, a leading veterinary behaviourist in Australia:
“Reward-based training is effective for all breeds and ages and results in a happy, confident dog.”
Vet-Recommended Gear for Safer Training
Many behavioural problems—especially leash pulling—can be mitigated with the right equipment. Below are some of the most recommended alternatives to prong collars:
1. Front-Clip Harnesses
- Distributes pressure across the chest and shoulders instead of the neck.
- Gently redirects the dog’s motion when they pull.
- Examples: Ruffwear Front Range, PetSafe Easy Walk, Balance Harness.
- Ideal for strong pullers or brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds.
2. Head Collars (Head Halters)
- Resemble a horse halter and offer control over the dog’s head direction.
- Require acclimation but are highly effective when used gently.
- Examples: Gentle Leader, Halti Head Collar.
- Best for dogs prone to lunging or leash reactivity.
3. Martingale Collars
- Offer more control than flat collars without choking.
- Designed to prevent slipping out without applying constant pressure.
- Commonly used with sighthounds or dogs with narrow heads.
Certified Trainers and Behaviour Support
Even the best equipment is only as effective as the training behind it. For that reason, vets strongly encourage seeking help from qualified, force-free trainers:
- Delta-accredited trainers: Endorsed by vets and the RSPCA.
- APDT Australia: A professional body promoting humane dog training.
- Pet Professional Guild Australia: Lists force-free trainers by location.
You can also ask your local vet for referrals or check the AVA’s Australian Veterinary Behaviour Interest Group (AVBIG).
Customising for Your Dog
No single tool or technique suits every dog. Vets consider several factors before recommending training gear:
- Dog’s size and breed
- Medical history (e.g. tracheal issues)
- Behavioural triggers (e.g. fear of strangers, leash reactivity)
- Environment (urban walks vs open fields)
- Owner’s ability and consistency
The goal is not just obedience, but creating an environment where your dog feels safe, confident, and eager to learn.
The Role of Veterinary Behaviourists
When a dog’s behavioural problems go beyond simple training challenges—such as aggression, severe anxiety, or compulsive behaviours—veterinary behaviourists are the professionals best equipped to help. These experts combine medical training with behavioural science, offering a holistic approach to canine behaviour modification.
What Is a Veterinary Behaviourist?
A veterinary behaviourist is a licensed veterinarian who has pursued additional postgraduate qualifications in animal behaviour. They are trained to:
- Diagnose behavioural disorders such as phobias, separation anxiety, fear aggression, or obsessive-compulsive behaviours.
- Identify medical causes contributing to behavioural issues (e.g. pain, thyroid disorders, neurological problems).
- Develop customised behaviour modification plans, often including environmental changes, training protocols, and—if necessary—medication.
Unlike regular dog trainers, veterinary behaviourists are legally qualified to prescribe medication, conduct clinical assessments, and manage complex cases involving both physical and emotional health.
When Should You See a Vet Behaviourist?
Australian veterinarians recommend seeking out a veterinary behaviourist if your dog:
- Exhibits sudden aggression or biting incidents
- Displays severe anxiety (e.g. destructive behaviour, excessive drooling, escape attempts)
- Shows signs of phobias (e.g. to storms, loud noises, or other dogs)
- Has failed to respond to standard training efforts
- Reacts fearfully to new environments, people, or other pets
- Has a history of abuse or neglect and struggles to adapt
These are often signs that a deeper emotional or medical issue may be present, and punitive tools like prong collars can worsen the situation.
What Methods Do They Use?
Vet behaviourists in Australia follow evidence-based protocols grounded in learning theory, neuroscience, and ethology. Common methods include:
- Desensitisation and counterconditioning
- Behaviour modification programs
- Enrichment strategies and routine planning
- Medication support (when behaviour is rooted in anxiety or neurological causes)
They also collaborate with certified trainers and general vets to ensure a team-based, integrated care plan.
Finding a Veterinary Behaviourist in Australia
You can locate qualified vet behaviourists through:
- The Australian Veterinary Behaviour Interest Group (AVBIG)
Website: https://www.ava.com.au/avbig - The Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS)
Behaviour chapter listings. - University referral clinics in cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Access may be limited in rural areas, but telehealth consultations are increasingly available.
By working with a vet behaviourist, pet owners can ensure they are addressing the root causes of behavioural challenges—not simply suppressing symptoms with force-based tools.
Australian Laws and Guidelines on Dog Training Tools
Australia’s animal welfare laws are among the most progressive globally, and there is growing regulatory concern over the use of aversive training devices like prong collars. While laws vary across states and territories, the overarching message from authorities is clear: training methods that cause pain or distress are not acceptable under current welfare standards.
National Overview
There is no federal law that explicitly bans prong collars nationwide. However, each state and territory governs its own animal welfare legislation. The use, sale, or possession of prong collars may be regulated or restricted depending on where you live.
Here’s a look at how key states address this issue:
New South Wales (NSW)
- Prong collars are banned under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation 2021.
- The regulation explicitly prohibits the possession and sale of prong collars unless exempt for specific veterinary or government use.
- Maximum penalties can apply for non-compliance.
“The use of prong collars is inconsistent with animal welfare principles and carries a high risk of causing unnecessary harm.”
— NSW Department of Primary Industries
Victoria
- While not yet banned, there are active discussions among welfare organisations pushing for restrictions.
- The Domestic Animals Act 1994 includes provisions for preventing cruelty through inappropriate training methods.
- The RSPCA Victoria campaigns for legislative updates to reflect scientific evidence and ethical training standards.
Queensland
- Prong collars are not explicitly banned, but their use can be challenged under the Animal Care and Protection Act 2001 if misuse results in harm.
- The RSPCA Queensland has urged pet owners to use reward-based tools instead and warns that misuse may constitute cruelty.
South Australia, Tasmania, and ACT
- These states have no specific ban but uphold general anti-cruelty laws.
- Enforcement relies on whether the collar’s use causes harm, distress, or behavioural deterioration.
Western Australia and Northern Territory
- Prong collars remain available for purchase.
- However, RSPCA WA and NT actively educate against their use and promote force-free alternatives.
Is It Legal to Buy or Import Prong Collars in Australia?
In states where prong collars are banned (like NSW), it is illegal to sell, possess, or use them. In other states, online retailers may still offer them, but enforcement is increasing. Importation from overseas retailers could also violate customs or state regulations, especially if intended for use in a banned jurisdiction.
Enforcement and Penalties
Using a prong collar in a manner that causes pain, fear, or injury can lead to:
- Fines or legal charges under cruelty prevention acts
- Confiscation of the device
- Prosecution for animal abuse
The Legal Shift Toward Humane Training
As more states consider updates to their animal welfare laws, it is likely that prong collars and similar aversive tools will face increased regulation or outright bans across the country. This shift reflects Australia’s broader commitment to fear-free, evidence-based pet care.
What to Do If Your Dog Is Hard to Train
Training a dog with persistent behavioural challenges can be daunting, but with the right approach and support, it's entirely achievable. Here's a structured plan to guide Australian pet owners through this process:
1. Rule Out Medical Issues
Before attributing behavioural problems solely to training deficiencies, it's crucial to consult with a veterinarian. Medical conditions such as pain, neurological disorders, or hormonal imbalances can manifest as behavioural issues. A comprehensive health check can identify or rule out underlying medical causes.
2. Consult a Veterinary Behaviourist
If medical issues are ruled out, and behavioural problems persist, seeking the expertise of a veterinary behaviourist is advisable. These professionals are veterinarians with additional qualifications in animal behaviour. They can diagnose complex behavioural disorders and develop tailored treatment plans, which may include behaviour modification strategies and, if necessary, medication. In Australia, the Australian Veterinary Behaviour Interest Group (AVBIG) and the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists (ANZCVS) provide directories of qualified behaviourists.
3. Engage a Certified Positive Reinforcement Trainer
Working alongside a certified trainer who employs positive reinforcement techniques can be highly effective. These trainers focus on rewarding desired behaviours, which fosters trust and encourages learning. Organisations such as the Delta Institute and the Pet Professional Guild Australia (PPGA) maintain directories of accredited trainers committed to humane training methods.
4. Implement a Consistent Training Routine
Consistency is key in dog training. Establish a daily routine that includes short, focused training sessions. Use clear cues and immediate rewards to reinforce desired behaviours. Patience and persistence are essential, as behavioural changes can take time.
5. Provide Mental and Physical Enrichment
A well-stimulated dog is less likely to develop behavioural issues. Incorporate activities that challenge your dog's mind and body, such as puzzle toys, interactive games, and regular exercise. This enrichment can reduce anxiety and prevent the development of destructive behaviours.
6. Monitor Progress and Adjust Strategies
Regularly assess your dog's progress and be prepared to adjust training strategies as needed. Maintain open communication with your veterinary behaviourist and trainer to ensure that the approach remains effective and appropriate for your dog's evolving needs.
By following this structured plan and utilising available resources, Australian pet owners can effectively address and manage challenging dog behaviours, leading to a harmonious and rewarding relationship with their canine companions.
Expert Commentary
To provide a balanced and evidence-based perspective on prong collars and dog training, we’ve gathered insights from leading voices in veterinary medicine, animal behaviour, and humane training in Australia and beyond.
Dr. Kate Mornement – Australian Animal Behaviourist
“Punishment-based tools like prong collars might stop a behaviour temporarily, but they don’t teach a dog what to do instead. Worse still, they can create long-term fear and mistrust, especially in sensitive dogs.”
Dr. Mornement, a well-known speaker and consultant across Australia, advocates for reward-based, science-backed approaches that address the root of behavioural issues rather than masking them with aversive techniques.
Dr. Jo Righetti – Veterinary Behaviourist and Educator
“There’s a misconception that dogs need to be dominated or corrected with pain to behave. In truth, most behavioural problems stem from stress, lack of socialisation, or misunderstanding between dog and owner. Tools like prong collars only make this worse.”
Dr. Righetti often consults on pet behaviour for media outlets and Australian pet organisations. Her work focuses on promoting welfare-centred training that supports emotional wellbeing.
Pet Professional Guild Australia (PPGA) Statement
“There is no evidence that tools designed to cause discomfort—such as prong or choke collars—provide long-term behavioural improvements. In fact, they increase the risk of fear, aggression, and injury.”
The PPGA represents a growing number of force-free trainers across Australia. Its mission is to educate pet owners about ethical, effective alternatives to outdated training methods.
Victoria Stilwell – International Dog Trainer and TV Host
Though not based in Australia, Victoria Stilwell’s influence has shaped training standards worldwide. She’s known for her stance against prong collars and similar tools:
“Pain is not training. The use of tools like prong collars can damage not just the dog’s neck, but your relationship with them. Trust and empathy should always be at the centre of dog training.”
Her Positively network of trainers and educational resources is followed globally and aligns with the values of Australia’s growing force-free movement.
AVA (Australian Veterinary Association) Guidance
“Veterinarians have a duty to protect animal welfare. That includes guiding clients toward training tools and techniques that do not cause pain or fear.”
The AVA has repeatedly affirmed that behaviour modification should focus on creating positive associations, not suppressing symptoms through discomfort.
These voices, rooted in veterinary expertise and scientific research, affirm that prong collars are incompatible with humane and effective dog training. The emerging consensus—especially in Australia—is clear: fear-free, force-free methods are the ethical and practical way forward.
Conclusion
As awareness of canine emotional wellbeing grows, so too does the demand for ethical, science-based dog training methods. In Australia, the message from veterinary professionals, behaviourists, and welfare organisations is resounding: prong collars are not recommended.
While some trainers still argue for their utility in specific cases, the risks of injury, stress, and behavioural fallout outweigh any perceived short-term benefit. Tools that rely on discomfort to enforce compliance undermine the very bond that training aims to build.
Australian pet owners are fortunate to have access to a wide range of force-free resources—from certified trainers and veterinary behaviourists to humane training gear like front-clip harnesses and head halters. These alternatives not only protect your dog’s physical safety but also foster confidence, trust, and lasting behavioural success.
As our understanding of animal behaviour deepens, training tools must evolve with it. Choosing compassion over correction is not just the right thing to do—it’s the smart, sustainable approach for any dog lover committed to their pet’s lifelong wellbeing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are prong collars banned in Australia?
Yes, in some parts of Australia. As of 2021, prong collars are banned in New South Wales under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Regulation. Other states and territories do not have outright bans, but their use may still fall under animal cruelty provisions if harm is caused. Regulations vary, so it's essential to check your local animal welfare laws.
2. What’s the difference between a prong collar and a choke chain?
A prong collar has metal links with blunt prongs that press into a dog’s neck when tension is applied. A choke chain, on the other hand, tightens indefinitely and can strangle or severely compress the neck. Both are considered aversive and outdated by modern training standards, and neither is recommended by most Australian vets or behaviourists.
3. Can a prong collar ever be used safely?
Even when used "correctly," prong collars carry inherent risks—physical injury, behavioural fallout, and emotional stress. Veterinary behaviourists and leading trainers agree that the potential for harm outweighs the benefit. As such, prong collars are not considered a safe or humane option, especially when force-free alternatives exist.
4. What do dog trainers in Australia recommend instead?
Modern Australian dog trainers, especially those certified through organisations like the Delta Institute or Pet Professional Guild Australia, advocate for:
- Front-clip harnesses
- Head halters
- Martingale collars
- Clicker training
- Positive reinforcement techniques
These tools and methods focus on teaching dogs what to do, rather than punishing them for unwanted behaviour.
5. Is it better to use a harness or a collar for pulling dogs?
Harnesses—especially front-clip designs—are generally safer and more effective for dogs that pull. They distribute pressure across the chest and shoulders instead of concentrating it on the neck, reducing the risk of injury and improving control. Many Australian vets recommend harnesses over collars for walking, especially for strong or reactive dogs.
