My favorite collars are modified slip collars or Martingale collars; these allow the flat nylon collar to close in a limited way. This helps with dogs that try to back out of collars. A link-- http://www.sitstay.com/store/equip/collars3.shtml
On small pups, flat nylon collars work well. Best on smooth coated adult dogs are flat collars. Rolled collars work well on dogs with heavy coats because they do not matt the coat. Wide collars should be used on large, smooth coated dogs or dogs with fragile necks (Whippets, Italian Greyhounds, etc). Slip or choke collars should only be used when training, and then only if you have been schooled in using them properly—there is a right way and wrong way.

Many folks have trouble with dogs that pull on the lead. If he pulls and you follow along, he learns that pulling works. If you stop walking forward when your pup pulls, he will learn that pulling doesn’t work. If your dog has already learned this behavior, un-do it by quickly turning and walking the other way when he pulls or just stand still if he pulls. Use treats as lures. This takes a lot of patience. A great tool is the head collar, a device that is similar to a halter. It gently guides the head and presents mild pressure on the muzzle. Generally, this tool works on the most hardheaded pullers when used appropriately. Head collar link-- http://bargraph.com/gentleleader/frames.html
*Look here for articles on training and tools in the future.

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