Opinions on E-Collar Training

[Cailey Carson]

I'd like to know more about the e-collar training and everyone's opinions on it. Whether it's a good idea or a bad idea. 

[Diane, Hurley and Sidney]

Cailey,

I used an e-collar on Hurley for a short period of time.  Mainly due to his aggessive racing towards other dogs wanting to bark and play.   I was not comfortable doing so but do believe there might be instances where it is appropriate.  Hurley is now 5 years old.  He is a very gentle soul and is currently in a Therapy Dog training.  That training is done with lots of praise and treats.  However, Hurley responds well to praise and doesn't really care that much about treats.  

With every training activity we do there is lots of petting and praise.  It is all based more on fun and not any form of fear.   I do use a firm voice.   I am finding that I prefer the gentler but firm approach.    I do not use a chocker collar and do not really believe in it.   I believe that good, firm, constant training is far more effective in the long run.  

If you do decide to use an e-callar using it correctly is very important.  I did get some training into its proper and appropriate use.  

Hope that helps in any case.  Good luck with whatever means you decide to do.  

[LORRY SWETLAND]

I have used the collar on all my dogs after they were 3 1/2 months old. I found it very effective. I started Turbo at 3 1/2 months and he responded very quickly. I only used the buzz if he was headed to the road or off into the woods. He is now 1 yr old and when I put the collar on him he knows we are going someplace where he needs to mind his manners. I have the remote with me and like Diane said it must be used cautiously and not abuse the dog with it.Turbo is free to run on my property at warp speed and he never goes off the property even without the collar. I truthfully believe in the collar. Puppies have no fear of things that can hurt them so for those times I like the collar.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

I don't think it is a matter of good or bad, but of proper and consistent training whatever method you choose to use.  e-collar training is more precise and you should have a trainer teach you exactly the proper use.  Done badly, e-collar training is not good for the dog.

[Missy]

You should search the forums for 'e-collar' topics.  You will find both sides represented. 

I used e-collar, but it is important to follow proper training as others have stated.  I followed a hunting guide book for my personal training.  We have a Garmin collar that has the options to 'beep', vibrate, or 'shock' and there is the ability to increase or decrease each other those events in increments. (ie a small shock or a major shock)

If you are having trouble with training, then the ecollar is not for you.  The pup must have proper understanding of commands before the ecollar training.  The good thing about the e-collar is it does help reinforce the commands and it gives the pup freedom off the leash. (and owner a chance to stand still while pup runs!) lol  

You need to decide what it is you want the e-collar to do for you.  The one thing you can't do, is skip out on the training!