E-Collar Vs Shock Collar

You would have heard the terms e-collar and shock collar often used, sometimes within the same sentence. The reason for this is both are the same and are used interchangeably.

A shock collar is just another way of defining an e-collar. Therefore, there is no arguing on e-collar vs shock collar as they are the same.

You would have heard the words e-collar, shock collar, and training collar used quite often as a pet owner. There is much controversy regarding shock collars and their use in training dogs

What Is An E-Collar

An e-collar, short for electronic collar, is a type of training collar that uses a small electric current which passes through metal components to provide a mild shock to the dog.

Although using e-collars is not harmful, you should always combine this training with positive reinforcement for the best results. If not, it will not show the desired results.

An e-collar is also known as a shock collar and is used to stop unwanted behavior in dogs. It makes your dogs listen to you and realize when they are doing something that is not acceptable.

There are many types of e-collars, including the following.

Training e-collar
Tracking e-collar
No-bark collar
Vibration collar
Beeper collar
Tracking and training systems

E-collars come in adjustable stimulation levels and sizes with remote devices that can even control multiple dogs simultaneously.

How Does An E-Collar Work

E-collars work by sending a small electric signal through the collar on the dog’s neck. Two metal prongs on the collar touch the dog’s skin. Therefore the dog can feel a tingling sensation or slight shock, which is why this collar is called a shock collar.

Controlling when to send the electric signal is in the hands of the owner. Whenever the dog engages in unwanted behavior, you can stimulate the collar via the remote so that the dog feels slightly shocked.

The slight discomfort the dog feels makes it realize that it shouldn’t be engaging in such behavior and quickly stop doing it.

E-collars come with adjustable settings, such as selecting a tone, vibration, or shock stimulation mode and level.

When Should You Use An E-Collar

E-collar training can be beneficial, especially for dogs that are difficult to train. It’s easy to train your dog to obey your commands using an e-collar.

It’s also an effective training method if you’re trying to keep your dog within boundaries without fences.

E-collars are an extension of leashes and are a form of communication method as well. They should be combined with positive reinforcement and should not be used as the only training method for dogs.

Why Choose An E-Collar

There are many reasons why you should use an e-collar for your dog.

They are a better way of communicating commands.
They teach your dog yard boundaries without the need for fencing.
They train your dog not to bark excessively.
They prevent your dog from jumping at visitors and strangers.
They enable dog training sessions that are less stressful.

A well-trained dog is an asset to any household. Dogs can be useful and provide additional security to your household.

However, if you have an aggressive dog or don’t obey your commands, you’re in more trouble than having one.

So, train your dog correctly using e-collars and other training methods. Never be harsh on your dog or punish it since this will make your dog express negative feelings towards training.

E-Collar Safety On Dogs

E-collars are extremely safe on dogs as long as you correctly use them. Misusing it will not show positive results.

The electric current or ‘shock’ is so mild that it feels like a flea bite. Ensure to use it in a lower setting to provide only mild discomfort to your dog.

It is recommended to start from the lowest level. However, even at higher levels, e-collars are not harmful to dogs. It will only provide an uncomfortable sensation to your dog.

Start with a lower setting and go higher up in level only if your dog doesn’t respond.

However safe they are, e-collars are not a permanent solution and are only meant for temporary use. They should also not be used to punish dogs, as this could make them show aggressive behavior.

E-Collar Pros And Cons

Here are the pros and cons of an e-collar for training a dog.

Pros

It is safe for your dog.
It is an effective training tool in combination with other training techniques.
It is effective in changing difficult behavior in dogs.
It helps keep your dog safe and within your control.
It can be set to multiple levels, selectable according to your preference.

Cons

It can cause issues if not used correctly.
Using it as the only training method may not give the desired results.
Using it as a punishment can make dogs aggressive.
Misusing it can cause anxiety in dogs.

Tips On How To Use An E-Collar For Training

Always begin training with verbal commands, and don’t forget to reward good behavior with treats. If your dog is not responding well to this method, move on to training with an e-collar.

Some dogs are stubborn, won’t respond to simple verbal commands, and need an additional device, like an e-collar, to get them going.

Following are a few things to make a note of during e-collar training.

Make your dog comfortable wearing the e-collar. Let him wear it for a few days before starting actual training.
Ensure that you fit the e-collar properly around your dog’s neck. You have achieved the perfect fit by inserting two fingers between the e-collar and your dog’s neck.
Start from the lowest setting. Move on to a higher setting only if your dog doesn’t respond well to a lower setting.
Don’t let your dog see the remote in your hand. It could lead to your dog becoming aggressive towards you.
Ignore your dog if it doesn’t listen to your commands while wearing the e-collar. However, remember to praise it if it obeys your commands.

How To Correct Unwanted Behavior

It’s important to note that all dogs are not the same. They learn different behaviors and commands at their own pace.

You must be patient when training your dog, with or without an e-collar. Use verbal commands when possible to coincide with activating the e-collar.

Start from the lowest setting. Activate the e-collar by pressing the button on the remote whenever you see your dog engaging in unwanted behavior.

If your dog doesn’t respond, increase the stimulation setting it one level up to grab its attention. Once it feels the shock, the dog will stop engaging in the unwanted behavior.

Once this occurs, praise your dog and reward it with treats or toys.

Introduction Of E-Collars

The history of e-collars dates back to the 1960s when the shock was used as behavior modification for dogs.

The first e-collar was invented in the 1960s. Its initial purpose was to train hunting dogs at the time. These first e-collars could only deliver a single level of stimulation to the dog.

However, today’s e-collars work by sending a vibration or mild shock stimulation to alert your dog to correct its behavior. The stimulation level is also adjustable.

The vibration stimulates the nerves and sensory receptors, which helps distract your dog from its current behavior and realize that it should not be doing so.

Therefore, your dog doesn’t feel pain when training with the e-collar. Instead, all it feels is a mild discomfort at a humane level.

Different Types Of E-Collars

There are different e-collars, including remote training collars, fence-containment collars, and anti-bark collars. They all operate similarly but with different uses for each device.

For example, fence-containment collars will want you with a beeping sound when your dog crosses a specific boundary.

Remote training collars and anti-bark collars administer shocks via a remote device.

Conclusion

E-collar is the same as a shock collar, and the two terms are interchangeable. If used correctly, e-collars can be helpful in training dogs and correcting unwanted behavior.

E-collars Are completely safe for dogs and only provide dogs with a mild shock that feels slightly uncomfortable. Always combine e-collar training with positive reinforcement and reward your dog for correct behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are E-Collars And Shock Collars The Same?

The shock collar is another name for an e-collar, and both identify the same type of dog training collar.

When Should You Start Using An E-Collar On A Dog?

The best age to start using an e-collar on your dog is when it turns 6 months old.

How Tight Should An E-Collar Be On A Dog?

Ensure that you can insert two fingers between the e-collar and your dog’s skin. You must fit the collar perfectly around your dog’s neck if possible.

E-Collar Vs Shock Collar