What should you do with the dog's collar before entering the tunnel?

The collar should be removed and put with the leash before entering the tunnel for a couple of important reasons. First, the safety of the dog is a primary concern. A collar can catch on the tunnel's edges or other obstacles, potentially causing injury to the dog while it navigates through the tunnel. Removing the collar eliminates this risk, allowing for a smooth and safe passage.

Additionally, in competitive settings such as those governed by the JRTCA, it is common practice to have dogs in the ring without collars to ensure fairness and avoid any distractions. Without a collar, the dog can focus solely on the task at hand, which is particularly important in agility or performance events where precision and enthusiasm are key.

Using the leash properly ensures that the dog can be safely controlled both before and after entering the tunnel, maintaining a positive and safe environment for the dog and handler.