I have always used a choke chain on my Shepherds when they were younger and I was training them.Sorry but I refused to use a prong.Don't like that idea.Once they were trained the heel command,I have never had to use it on them again.And both dogs heel on my left side.As they were tough.They don't pull ot lunge at anyone or anything.I guess it's all in the training.Start then young and keep at it.Teaching them to heel is a very important part in their training.If they can do that then they won't need a choke or prong.And trust me my guys are big boys.