Electronic dog training has been with us for quite some time and there is a question of it’s being humane. Now, as I write this please keep in mind that this is my opinion only and you may disagree with it, which is fine, but the point I’m trying to make here, is that when you are talking about training techniques for dogs, or any pet, you are subjecting yourself to a persons personal opinion and preference.

It just so happens that I am in favor of electronic training, provided it is done properly. That is one of the reasons I offer consultations for everyone of my customers, or anyone who so chooses, before they buy a collar or any training equipment from me. Since I have used these items I KNOW what can happen and what to expect. I have stressed on my website and to everyone I have consulted with, that these are tools and you MUST educate yourself as to the uses and it’s strength. There have been individuals that I have not sold to because of one reason or another. The biggest reason is that they don’t need an electronic device to curtail the certain behavior they have contacted me on. Before you use one of these you have to ask yourself WHAT, WHY and WHEN.

When is the behavior you are trying to change occurring. Is there something that sets off the un-wanted behavior?

What exactly is the behavior you want to stop. Always identify the problem and study it over to make sure that the problem can’t be changed in another manner, say paying attention to your dog and see if there is an extenuating circumstance that triggers the un-wanted behavior. Once you have made all the determinations and they all are pointing to the dog behaving in a manner you want to stop then use the device. But again, after you have exhausted all other avenues.

Why do you think that the only way to get your dog to change its’ habit is by using the shock collar? If you have done everything above it will be apparent to you. Most generally, the dog already knows that what it’s doing is wrong. If you have done any obedience training at all you will have a pretty good understanding of your dog, if you haven’t then you by all means LEAVE YOUR FINGER OFF THE BUTTON. You MUST ALWAYS be sure your dog knows it’s being naughty. These electronic devices are tools to reinforce training you have already done, or to get your dogs attention at a distance, to make them understand that just because you are not right beside them they must always be paying attention to you when given a command.

In closing I want to say that electronic training is a good thing when done properly and it can help your dog and you become more understanding of each other. Also in closing I want to say that electronic training is no substitute for you getting out there and taking an active role in your dogs training. I believe that personal hands on training is good as anything out there.