Why Do I Use Prong Collars And E-Collars?
Many people – including dog trainers – think that these training collars are cruel and unnecessary and would like to see them banned. My experience as a dog trainer and owner has proven to me that the opposite is true. When used appropriately, dog training tools like prong collars and e-collars are actually a gentle, effective, and even necessary part of training.
Training Collars Work Because They Mimic The Way Dogs Communicate With Each Other.
Dogs rely on so much more than noises and vocalizations to communicate with people and other dogs. If you watch dogs together you will notice that touch plays a big role in how they “talk” to one another. Dogs touch each other to invite play, to set a boundary, to establish hierarchy within the pack and to show affection.
We, humans, do the same thing when we want to play with our dog. For example, when I tap my toes on my dogs’ toes, they start to act goofy because they know that touch means I want to play. Merlin gets especially excited!
If one dog is setting a boundary for a new dog in the pack, they use their teeth. They bite – not hard, but with just enough force to let the dog know that a boundary has been set or that a behaviour is not acceptable. That’s why training collars like prong collars and e-collars work. They apply a controlled force or sensation to communicate with your dog in a language they instinctively understand.
Prong And E-Collars Are An Effective Tool For Communicating With Your Dog.
Several years ago, I had a highly reactive Doberman named Apollo. His behaviour was so bad that, in the beginning, I needed a muzzle when walking him to make sure that he wouldn’t bite me or another dog if it came too close. He was anxious and acting out. His behaviour put us and others at risk and he needed to understand that I, as his owner, would keep him safe. By using the e-collar, I was able to teach him that his reactions were uncalled for – and potentially dangerous. The “shock collar” (a name often used to describe the e-collar) gave me a way to communicate with him in a way he could understand. It allowed me to “speak dog” and, in time, helped Apollo to relax and change his behaviour.
Before he died, Apollo was able to be with new dogs both on leash and off – no muzzle required! I learned that he absolutely LOVED small dogs (thanks to my other pooch, Buddha). And no, not to eat them!
These Collars Are A Valuable Tool For Dog Trainers.
Prong collars and e-collars have also been a game-changer for many of my clients. I have seen it time and time again. Dogs who barked at people and other dogs stopped. Dogs who liked to chase anything that moved started making better choices almost the moment I put the collar around their neck. Dogs who were scared of every little noise learned that there was really nothing to worry about. Why? Because prong and e-collars provide clear, concise communication that the dog understands
If You Are Ready Try Dog Training Tools That Build Trust And Communication, I Can Help.
Communication is a key element in successful dog training. If you have tried other training methods and are not seeing the changes you want in your dog’s behaviour a training collar may prove very effective. If you are wary of trying a prong collar or e-collar on your own, contact me to arrange a free consultation and demonstration. Different dogs respond to different dog training tools and methods. I have helped many dogs become calm and learn to regulate their own behaviour with the use of training collars – and I can help you and your dog too!
