Backups are an important safety measure. If your training collar comes off unexpectedly, the backup ensures you still have a hold of your dog. Backups connect from the prong collar to the regular collar or from the “butt” of the leash to the regular collar. Here are three backup options.
The Carabiner
The carabiner connects from the prong collar to the regular collar. When connecting it to the prong collar, it’s important to connect it to the “o” ring (also known as the “dead” ring). The leash connects to the swivel ring and the backup connects to the “o” ring. If your dog is also wearing an e-collar, the carabiner goes OVER the e-collar. If you put it under the e-collar start it would be in direct contact with the dog’s skin which would be really uncomfortable for the dog and could impede the movement of the leash.
The advantage of the carabiner is it’s cheap and readily available. You can get them at any hardware store, usually for around $1. One word of caution: I don’t recommend plastic carabiners. The metal ones might feel clunkier, but the plastic ones are usually less reliable!
The Double-clip Backup
The double-clip backup is a less clunky version of the carabiner backup option. Like the carabiner, it connects from the “o” ring of the prong collar to the regular collar and goes over top of the e-collar strap (if applicable).
It can also connect from the “butt” of your leash clip to the regular collar which mimics a leash with a built-in backup (detailed below). The advantage of connecting it to the butt of the leash instead of the prong collar is that it gives you an extra layer of protection. You’ll still be connected to your dog if your prong collar pops off, and you’ll also be connected to your dog if your leash accidentally unclips.
The one disadvantage to the double-clip backup is that it’s harder to find. One place to order them is Canine Leashes and Collars.
The Built-in Backup
Some leashes now come with a built-in backup, such as The Good Dog’s Ultimate Leash. These are far less clunky and since the backup is part of the leash, you never have to worry about losing or forgetting your backup. The Ultimate Leash also comes in biothane and a thinner biothane. The Ultimate Leash is built with a locking carabiner in place of a leash clip as an added safety measure.
Accidents do happen—prong collars come undone, leashes pop off unexpectedly—so make sure to use a backup at all times. Safety first!
