My trainer suggested that a half check collar may be good for Lola. I understand how they are used in training when walking to heel but can anyone tell me are they supposed to be used as a normal collar or just for walks ?Are they safe to be left on without a lead?
Like Michele said they need to be fitted correctly, so as not to pinch a fold of skin if they tighten. Also the chain part cant hang too low or the dog risks getting a paw caught when off lead. I would never put a half-check on my dog if it was going to be jumping (e.g. agility, flyball, working trials) as I would fear a leg getting caught and them getting hurt.
Storm has a half-check just because I think it looks pretty on her
I trained her on a flat collar not to pull, and then moved her onto a half-check for heelwork.
The other discussion going on on the thread...most things/exercises I prefer to teach my dogs when they are fresh and hyper, the exceptions being scent and stays which I first introduce when they are calmer.
edited to add: the other thing with them is (like the metal on all collars) it can rust over time if allowed to get wet a lot (so check them often). Having said that my Mum's collie wears her half-check all the time (so we can grab her easily when she gets OTT). The dog has had the same collar for 15+ years, and it's only just starting to show signs of rust.