I am looking into getting some type of pinch collar to assist in training my gsp to heel, and not try to drag my wife when she takes her on walks. My pup is almost 1yr and is very energetic, especially if she sees a bird.

Is a pinch collar a good idea? And how should i use it so she won't just disobey when it's off?

thanks,

w00t

Before you get a pinch collar, take an obedience class.  Ask you instructor about the different training collars.  Some dogs do need a pinch collar, but you need to know how to use them first.  Same thing with what is often referred to as a choke collar.  Neither is any good if you do not know how to use them.

Totally agree with TB on getting some advice on the right tool and how to use it! Our trainer has been a Godsend in that regard!

I've tried several different collars, including the prong collar which I hated (after awhile the links would unexpectedly pop even though I had put it on correctly--and then I'd be standing there with a dog on the loose). The one that worked best for me was the Delmar Smith Wonder Lead. Otto is an absolute prince on this. I love that it springs back instantly when he stops pulling, so that he gets the message loud and clear.

Our trainer also suggested that, if you're caught without your collar, you can attach your leash to your dog's collar, then wrap it around their belly near their hips, crossing under once. The pressure they put on their belly when they pull is uncomfortable and they'll learn quickly enough. That said, you'd need someone to show you how to do this correctly to be effective.

Pinch collars are great most of the time.  I say most of the time because we've had the links just pop loose while simply walking down the street.

We had to give up on it because we dicided to train for CGC.  There you have to use a normal 1inch buckle collar to pass the test.

The rule I keep reading to prevent collar smart.  Is to put the collar on 30minutes before training or walking and take it off 30minutes after training, working, walking is complete.   (My wife just let our girl wear it all the time so she could just grap it for a correction anytime in the house. But this isn't recommended for the dogs safety)

The best collar for good walks I have found to date. (And I've tried Many)  is the Gentle leader.  you put it over the snout and clasp it behind the ears.  And connect the leash to the ring hanging below the jaw.

If walks are the primary concern, Gentle Leader works maricles.