Pheasant hunting with dogs requires having the right equipment to ensure success. One of the most important pieces of gear for hunters is the dog’s collar. The collar serves multiple purposes – it holds identification tags, supports training devices like beepers and e-collars, and gives the dog something to hold onto when restraining them. With so many collars on the market, how do you determine what the best option is for pheasant hunting?
What are the key factors in choosing a pheasant hunting dog collar?
There are several important considerations when selecting a pheasant hunting dog collar:
- Durability – Since hunting conditions can be tough on gear, the collar needs to stand up to brush, moisture, mud, and more. Look for solid construction and sturdy materials.
- Visibility – Having a highly visible collar helps you keep track of your dog’s location. Blaze orange, yellow, or reflective accents aid visibility.
- Comfort – The collar shouldn’t rub or chafe the dog’s neck during long hunting days. Padding and a good fit provide comfort.
- Versatility – Look for a collar that can accommodate tags, training devices, and a leash or restraining strap when needed.
- Cost – While you don’t want to compromise durability, affordable prices cater to hunters’ budgets.
Prioritizing these factors will lead you to the best dog collar for your pheasant hunting needs.
What types of dog collars can be used for pheasant hunting?
There are many styles of dog collars designed for hunting dogs. The most common and versatile types include:
- Flat collars – Made of nylon or leather, these basic collars are durable and comfortable for everyday use. They easily accommodate tags and allow you to slip on a leash. However, they don’t offer features tailored to hunting.
- Choke chain collars – Sliding metal chain tightens when pulled but loosens when pressure stops. This mimics a correction. Not recommended for hunting due to high risk of injury if caught on brush.
- Pinch/prong collars – Blunted prongs evenly distribute pressure around the neck to discourage pulling on leash. Provides control but again risky for entanglement in fields.
- Martingale collars – Includes a section that can be tightened but not loosened. Aids control while reducing choking risk. Better suited for obedience than hunting trips.
- Tracking collars – Designed for hunting dogs, with durability, visibility, and options to attach beepers or tracking lights. Can lack versatility for everyday use.
- Electronic collars – Contain a remote-controlled receiver to deliver stimulation for training. Useful training tools but can be expensive.
For pheasant hunting, flat collars, choke chain collars, martingale collars, and tracking collars tend to work best. Electronic collars also have training benefits but come with a higher price tag. Ultimately the collar style should align with your specific needs and preferences as a hunter and dog owner.
What features should you look for in a pheasant hunting dog collar?
To narrow down your options, keep these desired features in mind while shopping for a pheasant hunting dog collar:
- Durability – Look for solid metal clasps and rings, reinforced stitching, and rugged materials like thick nylon.
- Visibility – Blaze orange and reflective threading make the collar and your dog more visible.
- All-weather construction – Collars made to resist water, dirt, burrs, and other hunting conditions will last longer.
- Comfort padding – Foam or neoprene padding prevents chafing while protecting the neck.
- Proper fit – Measure your dog’s neck and choose the right size so the collar is snug but not constricting.
- ID tag attachment – An O-ring, D-ring, or slide-through design makes attaching tags easy.
- Leash/strap ring – A sturdy metal ring connects a leash or restraining strap.
- Beeper/light attachments – Look for D-rings or loops to attach hunting lights or beeper collars.
- E-collar contacts – Electronic training collars have metal contacts to deliver stimulation.
- Width – Wider collars distribute pressure more evenly and provide greater control.
The ideal pheasant hunting collar combines durability, visibility, and versatility. It also properly fits your dog and keeps them comfortable all day in the field. Added features like beeper/light attachment points increase functionality.
How much does a good pheasant hunting dog collar cost?
You can expect to spend $20 to $60 for a quality pheasant hunting dog collar. Some factors affecting cost include:
Collar Feature | Cost |
---|---|
Basic nylon flat collar | $10 – $20 |
Thick padded collar | $25 – $40 |
Wide specialty hunting collar | $30 – $50 |
Tracking collar with lights/beeper | $50 – $100+ |
E-collar with remote | $100 – $300+ |
While you can find inexpensive collars for under $20, they likely won’t withstand regular hunting use. Investing in a collar in the $30 to $60 range provides durability while still fitting most budgets. Top-end e-collars with remote training capabilities run over $100. Go for the most affordable option with all the features your hunting needs demand.
What are the top pheasant hunting dog collar brands?
Some dog brands that specialize in hunting dog gear make high-performing collars suited for pheasant hunting. Top brands include:
- Garmin – Known for GPS and tracking devices. Garmin’s T5 and Pro 550 Plus collars integrate GPS and e-collar technology.
- SportDOG – Makes versatile collars like the SportDOG Field Trainer with stimulation, beeper, and light options.
- Lupine Pet – Uses heavy-duty materials tested for durability and chewing resistance.
- Kong – Known for tough dog toys, Kong uses its Wild Things line for hunting collars.
- DT Systems – Specializes in training collars, like the DT Works Search Alert with a beeper and strobe light.
- Black Elite – Maker of Camo Elite collars with blaze orange trim for visibility.
These brands engineer collars to handle anything hunting dogs encounter in the field. They incorporate useful features while maximizing strength, comfort, and visibility. Popular options span flat collars, tracking collars, and training collars for versatile functionality.
What is the advantage of a 2-dog collar system?
A 2-dog collar system involves using two linked collars to control two dogs on one lead. Here are some benefits of using this setup for pheasant hunting:
- Simultaneously controls brace of flushing dogs – Works well for hunting breeds like English springer spaniels, Labs, and Airedale terriers that are trained to work in pairs.
- Evenly distributes pressure between dogs – Shared force between the two collars prevents choking or gagging.
- Adapts to situation – Can unlink second collar to work one dog independently if needed.
- Aids training – Reinforces responsive heeling and steady control of both dogs as a team.
- Convenient – Only need to hold and focus on one leash when handling two dogs in the field.
- Prevents tangling – Linked belts reduce the risk of dogs getting tangled up together.
For hunters working with a brace, the 2-dog system promotes better control, distribution of force, and coordination between the dogs during pheasant flushing.
Should my pheasant hunting dog wear a collar in the kennel/crate?
Most dog experts advise removing collars when dogs are crated or kenneled. Reasons for this include:
- Risk of catching on crate and causing injury or strangulation.
- Metal buckles and clasps may damage crate or kennel surfaces.
- Dogs feel more comfortable without collars during rest periods.
- Eliminates noise of jingling tags while dog rests.
- Prevents loss of collar if dog panics and catches collar on crate.
- Dog’s neck gets a break from wearing the collar.
The exception is if your hunting dog spends time in its crate or kennel during the actual hunt. In that case, leaving the collar on provides quick access to ID and control of the dog when needed again in the field. But otherwise, letting your dog go “collarless” while safely confined allows more comfort while preventing potential issues.
What safety tips should you follow when your hunting dog wears a collar?
Some key safety tips for your pheasant hunting dog’s collar include:
- Check collar tightness regularly and adjust as needed. Allow room for two fingers between strap and neck.
- Examine for wear and damage after each hunt and replace if necessary.
- Select camo, blaze orange, or reflective collar to maximize visibility.
- Attach ID tag with your contact information in case your dog gets lost.
- Use a collar with a quick-release clasp in case the collar gets snagged.
- Avoid chain slip collars that could injure your dog’s neck.
- Don’t leave a choke chain collar on unattended.
- Remove collar before crating to prevent injury.
- Carefully introduce your dog to any training collars to avoid overstimulation.
Following basic safety guidelines ensures your dog’s collar optimizes communication and control without causing harm.
How can I get my pheasant hunting dog used to wearing a collar?
Introducing a pheasant hunting dog to wearing a collar requires time, patience, and positive reinforcement. Here are some tips for success:
- Start young with puppies so they associate collars with normal life.
- Select a properly fitted, lightweight starter collar to prevent discomfort.
- Allow your dog to inspect and sniff the new collar before putting it on.
- Give lots of praise and treats when first wearing the collar for short periods.
- Gradually extend the collar wearing time from minutes to hours.
- Swap out the puppy collar for an adult hunting collar after the dog adjusts.
- Continue rewarding your dog for wearing its new hunting collar as needed.
- Use a happy, upbeat tone when collar conditioning instead of scolding.
- Consider a custom-fit collar for sensitive dogs to maximize comfort.
Starting collar introduction and training early prevents sensitivity later on. Remaining patient and rewarding desired behavior helps your dog accept collars as a normal part of life with you.
Conclusion
A well-fitting, purpose-built collar optimized for pheasant hunting gives your dog comfort, protection, and control during the hunt. Prioritize durable materials, bright colors for visibility, versatility to add accessories, and proper sizing for safety and performance. Investing in a quality collar from a trusted brand ensures it will hold up to tough hunting conditions while keeping your dog secure and identifiable in the field. Following basic precautions and training also helps your hunting dog accept collars as part of being your loyal companion and hunting partner.