myrottie, my dog only has a choke collar on when we're training or going out and either my husband or I are attached to it. If you have any time where she is unsupervised make sure it's not on. I don't know if you have a fenced in yard but if you do and she's out their to play or go potty she could get it caught on a bush or just about anything. Have another type of collar for those times you're not training. I agree you should have about 3 inches excess when you pull on the loop. Also make sure it's on correctly bc if it's not it won't snap and release properly, it will stick or pinch and choke
The purpose of the choke collar is when you give a correction you have a quick snap and release. Hope this helps. I forget, how old is your pup?
Judy