The Pros and Cons of Using an E-Collar

E-collars are controversial among many pet trainers due to safety concerns and questions about their effectiveness. However, they are still an important tool in some training methods. To address these concerns, it's important to know how to use an e-collar for dog training safely and effectively. 

No single method works for all dogs or owners; there are pros and cons of using this type of collar, depending on the situation. When used correctly, though, this device can be a valuable aid to both owners and pets alike. This article will explore the different uses of an e-collar and some tips on how best to utilize them during your dog's training process so you can decide if one might work for you.

What is an e-Collar?

An e-collar is a device that delivers a small electric shock when activated by remote control. The method of delivery of the stimulus is harmless to the animal. However, it can be uncomfortable. E-collars are a form of negative reinforcement, which means that they work by removing an undesired behavior. 

When used correctly, the dog will associate their behavior with the unpleasant stimulus and stop doing it. This type of training should always be supervised; never use one when you are not around your pet because there is no way to know what he or she might do in response to the shock.

Why are they Controversial?

Many pet trainers are concerned with the pet's safety and question their effectiveness. For example, one common argument against e-collars is that the dog may not understand where the pain is coming from or why. If the dog doesn't associate their behavior with the negative behavior, they won't learn the command you are trying to teach them. 

Also, the intensity and frequency of shocks can be easily misused by pet owners; too much stimulus can lead to aggression where there was none previously or increase a dog's fear so that they become more stressed than before.

Another argument is that when used incorrectly, e-collars aren't effective at all - the dog may only learn to fear the e-collar or the person using it, rather than the behavior they are trying to stop. However, when used correctly with positive reinforcement, e-collars can be a valuable training tool.

These concerns can be addressed if you know how to use an e-collar for dog training safely and effectively. 

When Should You Use an e-Collar?

There are several benefits to using an e-collar. The first is that it can be a very humane way of delivering negative reinforcement than other methods such as hitting or yelling at your dog. Another benefit is that it provides training from a distance, which means you don't need to be close to your dog for it to learn something new. 

Here are some examples of times when an e-collar might be a useful training tool: 

• When you have a dog that pulls on the leash. 
• When teaching your dog to come back to you or stop chasing wildlife. 
• Teach your dog not to bark inappropriately. 
• To help teach your dog not to jump on guests.
• When you have a new puppy that isn't housetrained yet.

How to Use an e-Collar?

Training should always be done by a professional, but if you do decide to use an e-collar in your training sessions, there are a few different ways that you can use an e-collar when training your dog: 

• The tone-only method - This type of training is done by using a unique sound before giving the command. Your dog will learn to associate this sound with whatever action you are trying to train it to do. For example, if your goal is for your dog to come back inside when called, you would use the tone-only mode while walking outside with your dog. Once you have reached the door, you would use the tone-only mode again to tell your dog it's time to come back inside. You will keep doing this until your dog comes when called every time, even if they are far away from you. Then you can start using a voice command along with the sound.
• The stimulation-only method - This type of training is done by using a unique vibration or shock before giving the command. With this method, you would start by putting your dog on a leash and walking them around. When they display the undesired behavior, you give the corresponding stimulus. You should only use the lowest possible level of stimulation that gets the desired results each time. When your dog responds correctly, you should move on to a different command and give them lots of praise. 
• Combining the two methods - With this method, you would start by using the tone-only mode or giving a voice command along with vibration or shock. You would continue doing this until your dog learns the command and always responds correctly. Once your dog is responding every time, you can start to give a voice command along with the tone or vibration/shock.

Note: For all training methods, remember to be patient, consistent, and persistent. Don't use the e-collar too often or for extended periods since that can lead to confusion and decreased results.

Pros and Cons of Using This Type of Collar 

The Pros of an e-Collar: 

This type of collar doesn't require a physical touch on your part. Using the collar from a distance also means you're not carrying around heavy equipment to catch your dog when they're running away. Finally, this type of training can be very humane, especially when used correctly alongside positive reinforcement. 

The Cons of an e-Collar: 

When an e-collar is used incorrectly, it can lead to other problems like stress and fear. Dogs may also only learn to fear the owner's voice or even the person who's using the e-collar rather than the behavior being corrected. Using an e-collar incorrectly can also lead to confusion and conflicting commands, especially if you're trying to use tone or vibration along with a voice command.

Do's and Don'ts of Using an e-Collar 

DO...

• Train your dog with a professional. 
• Find a training device with a tone, vibration, and stimulation setting to have all the tools necessary for training. 
• Only punish your dog when they have performed the unwanted behavior, or else they may get confused. 
• Let other people watch your training sessions, so they know how to properly use the collar if needed.
• Remember to be patient and consistent with your dog's training. 

DON'T...

• Use the e-collar more than necessary. 
• Shock your dog without giving a verbal warning or vibration. 
• Leave the collar on your dog all the time. 
• Train your dog in an area where there are a lot of distractions until much later. 
• Don't punish your dog for extended periods since it might cause them to fear you instead of just correcting their behavior. 

E-collars should only be used as a last resort for behavior modification. As with any training method, always consult with a professional before starting to use an e-collar for your dog. With patience, consistency, and proper use, an e-collar can be a very effective tool for correcting undesired behaviors in your pet.

The Bottom Line…

Many people argue that e-collars are cruel and should never be used for training dogs. However, if you know how to use an e-collar properly and effectively, it can help you positively teach your dog new behaviors.  

The Beacon Dog Academy training method blends prong collars with positive reinforcement techniques. The result is a dog that happily and willingly performs the behaviors you have taught him. 

To learn more about why prong collars are better than e-collars and start teaching your dog new behaviors using our proven training method, sign up and take advantage of our FREE introductory video today!