How to Train a Dog With a Remote Trainer

Training your dog with a remote trainer, also knows as an "e-collar" or a "shock collar," can be beneficial in situations in which you are unable to correct your dog due to the distance between the two of you. Although many hunters use e-collars when training their dogs to hunt and retrieve, responsible dog owners can also use the e-collar to train dogs to avoid certain areas or heed certain commands when outdoors.

Things You'll Need

• Leash Treats

Instructions

1. Properly introduce the e-collar. Allow your dog to come to the e-collar and reward him with an exotic treat, such as cheese or a piece of hot dog. Be patient, and do not put the collar on your dog if he backs away from it. When he's ready, fasten the collar on your dog, reward him with treats and play a game with him.

2. Use a verbal signal to precede a correction shock. When your dog needs a correction when outdoors, choose a verbal cue to indicate to her that she is about to be corrected.

3. If your dog does not respond to your verbal cue, use a correction shock on the lowest level he can feel. Your dog will soon associate your verbal cue as the correction and will gradually no longer need to be corrected with a shock.

4. Encourage your dog to come to you after a long-distance correction. When your dog stops the unwanted behavior, immediately praise her so she comes to you. Reward her with a treat. Having a long leash attached to your dog's collar at the beginning of training will help you encourage her to come to you rather than run away after a correction.

5. Remain consistent in your corrections. Every time you correct your dog, use the verbal cue only once, and allow your dog a second or two to comply. If your dog ignores the cue, always apply the electronic correction. Do not wait too long for your dog to heed the correction, as this will make it more difficult for him to learn that he must heed the verbal cue to avoid the electronic correction.

Tips & Warnings

• Purchase a remote trainer that has different levels of intensity. When you begin training, use the lowest intensity setting. Gradually increase the intensity until you find the one to which your dog responds. Indications that your dog can feel the correction include jumping, lifting his foot or running away. If your dog runs away, encourage him to come to you and reward him with a treat. You must remain calm and consistent when training with a remote trainer.

• You must consult with a professional, whether a trainer or a retailer of e-collars, before using a remote trainer with your dog. Never use the e-collar to punish your dog when you are angry. A remote trainer is to be used only as a quick correction, and should be set at the minimum level necessary to get your dog's attention. Never allow a child to operate an e-collar.