opinions on weighted collars

weighted collars can actually be highly beneficial...it increases neck strength which aids a dog when in hold for longer periods of time...as was stated above chain set ups usually weigh around 15 to 20 pounds anyway so a weighted collar is redundant while on the chain however if used while walking or jogging with the proper weight it increases neck muscle strength and endurance...the whole issue of perceived image is a reality you have to consider when configuring your desired apparatus...i personally go straight for practicality, efficiency and overall functionality...in the end it is your decision i just like to encourage you to think for yourself before you're swayed by herd mentality thinkers on the forum...all the famous dogmen, breeders, and/or conditioners were pioneers and innovators...by definition they were those who strayed from conventional and popularly accepted methods/practices...bjh

 

Because they only exercise the neck extensors they would only be beneficial if the neck flexors were exercised equally as much and unless the dog is gonna do a lot of lifting his head while lying on his back wearing the weighted collar then I very much doubt that.

 

I don't like weights. I tried them for a while to no avail. Explore other outlets for performance enhancement. I have done wonders with my dog. Six foot plus jumps with only chasing a ball and unlimited drive. This is just a proposal to explore other more mobile options. Its easy to walk your dogwith weights for thirty minutes as opposed to run with your dog for an hour.

 

I have known people who would use weighted collars 24/7 through a 6 week conditioning period. Never more than 10% of total body weight. Walks, mill-work, sprints, or dragging weight the collar never comes off except for baths and weighing. And the results were always good. Strengthening the neck and top-line. The collars were sand-filled like the O'brien's type. Safe and secure. But these dog didn't stay out on the chain when they weren't being worked - they had the comforts of home. If used right the weighted collard is an excellent tool.

 

One more thing I wanted to add. The collars was always removed 3 days before its showing. This seems to allow the dog enough time to adjust and flex.

 

There is nothing wrong with weighted collars when used correctly. I'd advise any responsible pit or working dog owner to own a weighted collar, great for conditioning.

 

just get you a harness and start dragging some weights.

 

.....just as good.your right..bk...if your working or just playing with your dog...ie;..dragging//flirt/tyre//spring...thats more than plenty of work for the neck muscles.....but to each there own..

 

yep thats the point... the problem...too many think they have to have them..and don't know why they want/need them for..lol...

 

I have a 3lb weighted collar that IMO is just about all you neeed for this breed. For the most part I don't use it with anything under 35-36 lbs.

Will be adding a weighted harness later this yr.

 

Couple of tips in there. Thanks for the post Slim.

 

I only use it on walks now, since the slat needs a total rehaul after getting it back from an old partner. I've only used it on my males and the littlest it's ever been on was 36. They've all handled it well after the initial adjustments.

I do have a question for Slim on the 5% ratio theory. Is this something you learned along the way somehow through research, trial & error, or is it just the good ole gut telling ya?

Just curious as I was told by them man who sold my equipment to me said he wouldn't use any higher of a weight than that. Mentioned nothing over 10% body weight. Though this was about 9yrs ago, and conditioning is one subject that can have new developments periodically.

 

Gotcha.

As for the collar, that's exactly how I use it. To ensure it's a work out on the neck muscles and not just a weight bearing exercise, that's what I want the vest for.

Also, where can I find a 2lb collar? All I've ever found was 3 & 5lb collars.

 

Everybody has there own way of conditioning .to much of anything can be bad for your dog.i have a 2 pound weighted collar that i use for his spring or flirt pole.i use a 5 pound but not very often.i have small weights with a velcro strap that put around each leg and run him on his slatmill for a short time.i dont whant him to hurt himself.i'm no expert i just do what i think is working.i focus on wind and muscle.but like i said each person does there own thing.if you think t work's than do it