Dog shock collars: The facts

A dog collar can be an effective obedience training tool when used correctly. Misuse of the dog collar can cause fear and confusion in your pet’s mind. So if you decide to use a dog collar to train your pet, make sure you use it in a responsible manner.

When is a dog collar handy?

A dog shock collar comes in handy when you have to control excessive barking and other undesirable behaviour patterns. For instance, if you want to keep your dog off certain areas in your home, you can train him by making use of the collar. If your pet loves to drink out of the toilet bowl, if he loves to wander in your garden and pull out plants, or if he tends to jump on visitors when they drop by, you could use the dog collar to make your pet more obedient.

How the dog collar works

There are different types of dog collars available for sale, so make sure you do your research and buy one that fits well around your pet’s neck. These dog collars come with a remote that allows you to control the collar from a distance. If you press the button on the remote, the collar will deliver a slight shock to your pet. This is sure to grab your pet’s attention without causing him pain. Make sure you press the button as soon as the undesirable behaviour occurs. If you come back home after several hours and realise that your dog has destroyed your furniture or shoes while you were away, don’t use the collar, as this will have no effect on behaviour training. Vibrating collars Some collars don’t deliver a shock but vibrate. These collars are better for smaller sized pets. Although all types of collars are safe when used according to the instructions provided, avoid using the dog collar to train your pet if he’s prone to seizures and panic attacks. Aside from this, don’t leave the collar on your pet when he’s alone at home as the collar may continuously shock him if any malfunction arises. This can ultimately prove fatal.

Precautions which you must take

An electronic collar that is tight may injure your pet, so choose the right size. Also, read the instructions that come with the package and don’t allow children to handle the remote. Don't solely rely on dog training collars to correct your pet’s bad habits. Try to determine why your dog behaves the way he does and look for ways to keep him busy. Lastly, give your pet a few toys and treats when you decide to leave him alone for several hours and spend time with him so that he doesn’t feel lonely and bored.