Electric collars, also known as e-collars, have been a controversial topic in the world of dog training. Some people believe that e-collars are a cruel and abusive form of training, while others argue that they are an effective tool for training dogs. In this blog post, we'll explore the reasons why e-collars are not abusive and why they can be a useful tool for dog trainers.
First and foremost, it's important to understand how e-collars work. E-collars are designed to deliver a mild electric stimulation to a dog's neck when a button on a remote control is pressed. This is at the low end compared to a tingling sensation (similar to that of pins and needles) and on the high end feels like a natural contraction of the muscle. The intensity of the stimulation can be adjusted according to the dog's size and sensitivity, and training needs. and some e-collars even have vibration or tone settings that can be used as an alternative to the shock.
Many people assume that e-collars are painful for dogs, but in reality, they are not. The electric stim delivered by the collar is similar to a static shock that you might experience when walking across a carpeted floor and then touching a metal object. Or that of a muscle stimulation device utilized during physical therapy for humans. It's not a painful sensation, but rather a mild discomfort/nuscanse that gets the dog's attention.
When used correctly, e-collars can help reinforce commands and encourage positive behaviors. For example, a dog that is trained to come when called may be more likely to obey the command if they know that failing to do so will result in a mild electric shock. This helps to keep the dog safe and encourages them to listen to their owner's commands.
Moreover, many professional dog trainers use e-collars as part of their training program because they are effective and humane. E-collars can be particularly useful for off-leash training or for training dogs in high-distraction environments, where it may be difficult to get the dog's attention with a verbal command or a treat.
It's worth noting that not all dogs are good candidates for e-collar training and not all e-collars are created equal. (Our company only uses e-collars from E-collar Technologies). Dogs that are highly sensitive or reactive may not respond well to the collar, and it's important to consult with a professional dog trainer before using an e-collar.
In conclusion, e-collars are not abusive when used correctly as a training tool. They are designed to deliver a mild electric stim that gets the dog's attention and can help reinforce positive behaviors, as well as allow you to more effectively communicate with your dog. E-collars are a humane way to train dogs and are widely used by professional dog trainers. However, it's important to use e-collars responsibly and to consult with a professional trainer before using one on your dog.