Using a shock collar for dogs is a popular way to train a dog. There are many different styles of shock collars available and they are used for different types of dog training. Choosing the right collar for your dog will help to make your training successful.
Shock collars work by creating an electrical shock to the dog through a small device on the collar. The degree of intensity of the shock can vary depending on the type of collar and the level of correction that is selected. The shock can be compared to that which is felt when you stick your finger in an electrical outlet. The feeling isn’t meant to be pleasant otherwise the correction wouldn’t be successful. Some people ask, are shock collars safe for dogs? Yes, shock collars are safe as long as the manufacturer’s directions are followed. If you have any doubt or questions about the collar that you are using, please be sure to call the manufacturer directly, don’t rely on hear-say or other unreliable information.
As mentioned, shock collars for training dogs come in many different styles. There are wireless shock collars for dogs and remote shock collars for dogs. The most popular type is the type used in wireless fence systems. A wireless dog fence uses a central unit called a transmitter that sends out a signal. When the dog wearing the receiver collar approaches the edge of the signal, the collar will beep so the dog knows it is getting near his boundary. If the dog continues towards the boundary the beep gets louder or quicker and eventually the dog will get an electrical shock correction if he does not turn around. Also, the dog will get a continuous correction until he returns to within the boundary. Of course, there are variations of this type of fence depending on the manufacturer, but this is a common type.
In order to prevent your dog from undergoing unnecessary pain and anxiety from using a shock collar, please make sure that you have thoroughly learned how to use the device properly. Also, be sure to check the system regularly to ensure proper function. Shock collars can be very helpful when training your dog, but when used improperly, can cause a negative result.
I bought one for my dog when she was a puppy because she barked like crazy and I lived in an apt then. The very first time it ever went off, and set at the very lowest setting, she yelped so high and so loud and literally all 4 leg came fully off the ground at the exact same time. Instantly tears came pouring down my face. I took the collar I just paid over $100 for off and threw in right in the garbage, never to be seen again.
@ Michelle, great article and you’re spot on about shock collars.
@ Garret, you’ve never been attacked by a dog that has been dead set on ripping you apart. I’m sure you would change your mind about shock collars if you had. And the aggression isn’t always the owners fault. It could be from previous owners abusing them, and then something about you sparking that memory for the dog. Shock collars are absolutely necessary for many breeds of dog as they are naturally more aggressive and unfortunately, unless you are a dog whisperer, no human can predict what exactly will influence aggressive behavior in any dog. They may never experience it, but then again, that means they never came across that one thing that was necessary to spark that aggression. I believe having a shock collar as a reinforcement tool and training aid gives you complete control over your dog no matter what the situation.
Shock collars are not safe. Many independent studies have been done that show that the risk is quite high. Not only can it cause physical harm, but it causes behavioral problems as well. Dr. Karen Overall found that dogs trained on shock collars have a higher rate of euthanasia due to behavioral problems caused by the shock in the first place. Shock collars are used by lazy people as a first resort and should be banned here as they have been in 14 other countries as they fit all the criteria for abuse.