First Things First, Get Your Dog a Training Collar
When you start thinking of getting your dog a collar, chances are you're right he needs a collar. Either you're thinking ahead: I want to train my dog, or you've been cleaning up after him more often: chewed furniture, missing shoes, pee in the kitchen, poop on your neighbor's driveway. Dog training is crucial if you want him to obey you, if you want him potty trained, and behave when your guests are around.
The equipment available in the market for dog training can be confusing. You have harnesses, handler and trainer vests, clickers, whips and sticks. Throw in the myriad of dog training videos and dog training books. There is also no deficiency in the number of websites containing doggie advice. Slow down and just decide to get a training collar first.
The idea behind having a collar on your pet is to be able to correct his behavior from a distance. These collars also function as remote trainers; they're electronic collar armed with sophisticated technology to allow you, with less physical effort, let your dog know that you don't approve of a certain behavior. You get results faster that way. Instead of having to run after him and spank him or yell and emotionally tired yourself, you can do this from a distance, with significantly less stress to your own person.
This electronic dog collar shoots a mild shock in your dog's body starting from his neck. You have a remote to control the shocks and the collar gets through transmitted commands. It won't hurt your dog much; just instill in him the rule of the boss of the house situation. You as the dog trainer must not over do this otherwise the pet will only resent you and not associate the shocks with unacceptable behavior.
This kind of collar has been improved over the years to accommodate almost every dog type and temperament there is. When used for smaller dogs and puppies, the shock delivered is lower, unlike the ones for larger dogs. In any case the shock level can be adjusted to the size of your dog. If you own many dogs, there are collar systems that allow you to control them all. Or shock them all at the same time, if need be.
As is expected, some people call this a form of torture. But keep in mind that the shock is mild, no more than a pinch. Plus you can adjust the electric pinch. In theory this is no different from a mild spanking or yelling, "Bad dog!" What you have to remember is that as the owner in possession of this, is that overdoing it and misdoing the correction to your dog's behavior is up to you. Some dog owners are very big fans of this collars, others can't stand the idea of shocking their dogs. It is up to you to make the decision if this is a type of dog training tool you want to use.
If you have this electronic dog collar installed on your dog, just remember to use it only when your dog is misbehaving. Shock it he does the bad deed. Like pooping on your neighbor's driveway. Or yanking down the curtains with his fangs. If you overdo it, or do it in situations that you would actually praise him, the dog might get confused. Use it to correct behavior, not at your whim.
Have a great "dog training" day,
Dr. Alfonso
