Dog Shock Collar Information

Dog shock collars, also called bark collars, are an instrument used in the training of dogs. Dog owners struggling with a dog that barks endlessly may find relief from the barking by using a shock collar. Dog owners also use shock collars to stop other undesirable behaviors. While they remain a controversial training method among animal professionals, many dog owners employ shock collars when other training methods fail.

Function

A shock collar works by giving a dog a slight shock when it begins barking or performs an undesirable behavior. The collar is a form of aversive training, which means that unwanted behaviors have negative reinforcement.

Types

Dog owners can use a shock collar that automatically detects when a dog barks by the vibration or noise delivered by the bark and administers a shock. For owners who want a shock collar to correct other undesirable behaviors, such as running away or jumping on people, remote-control collars allow the owner to administer the shock only when needed. Certain collars work specifically with electric-fence systems to keep dogs within boundaries.

Features

Shock collars can be waterproof or water resistant, have a non-physical correction option such as a tone or vibration, and employ varying intensity levels.

Warning

Humane Carolina, an animal advocacy group, warns dog owners that shock collars can malfunction and administer a constant shock to the dog. They also warn that dogs can receive noticeable injuries from a shock collar.

Considerations

The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) believes that any form of punishment training--including the use of shock collars--should not be the first choice for dog behavioral problems. The AVMA recommends trying positive-reinforcement training before resorting to shock collars or other negative punishments.

References

• American Veterinary Medical Association
• Positive Dog Training
• Humane Carolina

Resources

• Browse different collar models
• Dog training methods