The Ultimate Guide: How to Train a Dog with a Shock Collar

Shock collars are electronic collars, also known as e-collars. They are designed to emit an electric stimulus to a dog when activated. This is to discourage any unwanted behavior of the dogs or to reinforce particular commands.

They have become a topic of concern as to how it affects the innocent canines. However, using these devices helps in understanding their behavior. Misuse or improper handling can lead to negative consequences.

In this blog, you will learn how you can use this device, what you can teach them using these devices, and some of the most popular types of shock collars that trainers use.

How Does a Shock Collar Work?

Shock collars make use of electric current that passes through metal contact points. You will have a remote control to trigger a static electric shock to your dog’s skin. In addition, it is up to you to adjust the duration and strength of these electric shocks. The sensation can range from mild tickling to shocks.

They work the same way as promised, only if used correctly. You will have to make them wear the shock collar so that they can feel at ease when wearing it. Tight it by slipping two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. When you are training them, fit them a notch tighter. This is because the collar should be able to touch their skin. If they are furrier, you need to tie it tighter. However, be mindful of not choking them or making it uncomfortable for them.

Once the training is over, you can loosen it. Initially, they might throw tantrums as they might not be used to having anything around their neck. Make your dog sit before you, and only then set the intensity.

How to Introduce a Shock Collar to a Dog

The most important thing about using this collar is knowing how to use it. Correct placement of the device is important to avoid any injury. In addition, don’t forget to treat them once they follow your instructions. Follow the steps and follow them closely:

Step 1: Place the collar right below their jaw. The placement should not be near the voice box or other vital organs.
Step 2: Next, you must set the right stimulation level. Don’t keep it too high or too low. Make sure they are not facing any discomfort when wearing it.
Step 3: When training them, use an enclosed area. It would be best to put on a leash and then start the training.
Step 4: Once you have used it, check for your dog’s reaction. If they do not respond, it means the shock wasn’t enough.
Step 5: You could also have to change locations with time. So take care of that as well.

Is Shock Collar Training Bad for Dogs?

Shock collars are not completely good for your dogs. It can cause physical, emotional, and psychological harm to them; it intensifies their underlying anxiety, frustration, and fear, making them aggressive. It can even cause skin burns and pain and increase their heart rate.

They can show fear-based behaviors. These collars are nothing but an act of inhumanity and cruelty. As a result, it can damage the beautiful bond between the dog and the owner. Moreover, not using it correctly can even put your dog’s life at risk.

Thus, you should consult a vet before using it for your dog.

How to Properly Train a Dog with a Shock Collar

Training a dog properly using a shock collar will require you to care for certain things. Follow the below tips for better results:

Use a high-quality product with different settings, modes, and features.
Start with the basics and show them the behavior you expect from them.
Use the lowest intensity and then increase it gradually.
Use marker fags to mark their boundary.
Add positive reinforcement with the training, like treats, cuddles, and praises.
Teach them when and how they need to tell you if they are facing any discomfort because of the collar.

Why Do You Need Shock Collars to Train Dogs?

It has been observed that shock collars work pretty fast. You can train them faster and make them understand you are their owner. Dogs get used to following their habits, so they will know that not listening to you will send shock waves. It is an affordable option, and you won’t have to send them to costly training sessions.

Make sure that you remove the shock collar gradually as you see results in them. They won’t have to wear a collar throughout their life. Remember that safety comes first in training and caring for your pet. A shock collar alone can’t remove all their negative behaviors. You need also to show them love, care, and affection occasionally.

What Else Can You Teach Your Dog Using a Shock Collar?

There are numerous things that you can teach your dog using these electronic collars. They are a great tool to improve your dog’s mastery of basic obedience skills. There are many complicated skills that they need to earn, but basic obedience tops the list. This way, their skills will be solidified and make them more confident.

1. Off-Leash Walking

When you don’t want to use leashes for your dogs, train them to do things accordingly. You can use shock collars in the beginning. When walking without a leash, these signals will help them understand what to do. It is best when in busy dog parks.

2. Agility Training

When training your dog, you might need to send them quick signals, which is impossible when commanding. At this point, it is these shock waves that can do the work. When training them for hunting, hiking, training, and other such activities. You won’t have to yell at them anymore.

3. Speciality Jobs

Shock collars do wonders in such jobs. When your dog is training for things like corpse detection, search and rescue dogs, and avalanche dogs, this will surely help. This way, they can not only learn these jobs but also help them stay safe when facing such dangers.

4. Corrects Problem Behavior

Your dog might do dumb things that aren’t polite in a family gathering or a group. But worry not when you use these shock collars; you can train them not to do such things. For example, if they bark badly when they see someone, you can use the collar to tell them that doing that isn’t pleasing. When you keep using these shock collars, it will help them get over these bad habits.

Tips on Using a Shock Collar Safely

When using shock collars, remember that using them the right way is the key. It would be best if you were very cautious when using them. Following are some tips to remember when working with a shock collar:

Firstly, you must check whether your dog understands basic commands like come, sit, stand, and start using the collar.
For best results, you need to use a high-quality radio-controlled collar.
Make sure at no time should you be using the highest setting unless they have become as aggressive as taking someone’s life. High intensity can damage their vocal cord permanently.
This device also makes use of positive reinforcement.

What to Look for When Purchasing a Shock Collar?

When purchasing a shock collar, there are certain factors that you need to keep in mind at all times. Check out these factors below:

1. Water Resistance

Shock collars use electric shocks; hence, you must get a waterproof collar. Many shock collars are not water resistant, so check well before buying them.

2. Variable Intensity

Before buying a shock collar, check whether it has an option of changing the modes of intensity. Having just low, medium, and high is not enough. They can be available in modes of numbers like 1-5 or 1-10 and so on.

3. Expandability

Always get a shock collar that is adjustable, which means you can expand it and fit it according to your dog’s comfort. It has advantages for both the dog and the owner.

4. Warranty & Durability

When you buy a high-quality shock collar, it will be durable and last long. There are many rechargeable shock collars available you can choose from. Also, you should check whether there is a warrant on the product you are buying.

Best Shock Collars For Dogs

Many brands provide shock collars, and we have listed 5 best products you can choose from.

1. Educator E-Collar Humane Dog Training Collar

It is a lightweight collar suitable for dogs of 5 lbs and more. The static correction comes with 100 levels of regular or 60 levels of boosted stimulation. The distance covered is up to ½ mile. They can be reached within 2 hours for use. It is fully waterproof and shock-resistant for the users.

Pros	Cons
Easy with “no look operation.”	Operating the system might be difficult for some
Lightweight and a miniature model	Quite expensive as compared to the features provided
Has many levels of static stimulation
Comes with 2 years of limited warranty

2. Delupet Dog Shock Collar

This gadget can support up to 4 dogs at a time. It comes in 3 safe modes – beep, shock, and vibrate. The shock level ranges from 0 to 99 and can communicate for 1600 feet. It is rated waterproof by IPX7. The long-lasting property of this collar makes it more desirable to dog owners.

Pros	Cons
It is worth the price	Delayed pulse at times
It can be used for multiple dogs	The snap of the collar breaks easily when used for a long time
Long-lasting battery	The grip on the remote control is very poor
Provides a great range of coverage

3. Sportdog Brand Fieldtrainer 425 X Remote Trainer

Another adjustable training collar comes in sizes of 5’’ to 22’’. The collar is expandable and covers a range of 500 yards. It is designed to be used easily. There are 3 stimulation modes – tone, vibration, and 12 levels of static. It is a waterproof collar that can be used for highly aggressive dogs at home.

Pros	Cons
The collar is small, lightweight, and comfortable	The range might be insufficient for some
It can be used to train multiple dogs	Guidelines in the manual might be unclear
12 levels of static stimulation	Too bulky for some breeds
Can Be recharged again
Waterproof, suitable for water activities
Long range of communication
Option of ‘no look operation’ to focus only on the training

4. Halo Dog Shock Collar

It is an all-in-one dog safety solution for your dog. It fits neck sizes ranging from 11 to 30.5 inches. This also comes with variations in stimulation levels. The best things are 15 intensity levels to choose from. This one is best if you have aggressive dogs at your place. You can even create virtual fences using this device.

Pros	Cons
The fence boundaries can be accurately made	It is an expensive product
The GPS tracking is highly reliable
Provides 20 hours of battery life
Chew-resistant and durable
Come switch one year of warranty
It has a user-friendly app for the easy creation of fences

5. Pet Resolve PTS 1200

Dogs can be aggressive and grumble, howl, or even snarl at times. This one offers 3 training simulations – shock, vibration, and loud beep. There are 10 intensity levels that you can choose from. You can even remove the shock function if you want. There is an option for anti-bark use, which you can use to stop them from barking. The LED light attached makes it easy for you to take them for evening walks. They are 100% waterproof.

Pros	Cons
There is no standby, so it is always ready for training	There are no battery indicator lights
Comes with long-range remote control (¾ mile)
Versatile training modes available
Includes multiple helpful additional features
Waterproof, making it suitable for water activities

Conclusion

Using shock collars on dogs is indeed a contentious issue that needs immediate attention. It needs to be looked at from grounds of ethical, legal, and practical ways. They raise concern about how inhumane an act is to put a dog through discomfort, pain, and emotional distress.

It is essential to prioritize your dog’s health and safety. In addition, there are many laws concerning the use of these shock collars. Violating these laws can lead to ethical and legal issues. Hence, as pet owners, it should be your responsibility to work on your moral duty and prioritize their emotional and physical well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Alternatives to Shock Collars?

Yes, there are many alternatives to this gadget. You can use clicker training, reward-based methods, and positive reinforcement. These are more humane alternatives for training and behavior modifications in dogs.

Are Shock Collars Safe for Dogs?

Using shock collars is not safe as it can cause emotional and physical harm to dogs. An alternative is to use positive reinforcement techniques that are much safer and more effective.

Are They Legal to Use for Dogs?

To understand whether shock collars are legal, you need to check with the location you are staying in. There are many places where using a shock collar has been banned or regulated due to animal welfare concerns.

Can These Gadgets Be Used for Aggressive Dogs?

It is usually not recommended for aggressive dogs. You should seek professional guidance when handling their aggressive behavior. You need first to understand whether using shock collars for your dog will be right.