No topic in the dog training world sparks more heated or divisive debate than the Electronic Dog Collar—commonly known as the e-collar.

After 30 years of training, I can say without hesitation that the e-collar is both the greatest dog-training invention ever created… and, in the wrong hands, the worst. That may sound contradictory, but it’s true. For those who are properly trained in its use, the e-collar is an invaluable tool. For those who lack experience, it can cause serious harm very quickly.

On one side, you have the group that takes the politically correct stance. In today’s dog-training culture, this group opposes e-collars or any tool they perceive as “punishment”—whether “positive” or “negative” as defined by the Skinnerian Operant Conditioning model. The reality, however, is simple: the e-collar is just another training tool, no different in principle from a leash, martingale, or Halti headcollar.

In Operant Conditioning, “punishment” means adding or removing something to make a behavior less likely to occur. Unfortunately, this group automatically associates e-collars with cruelty or harsh correction. But in truth, a properly used e-collar delivers no more force than an exhausted mother dog giving a quick nip to a persistently rude puppy.

Online, you’ll find many trainers—usually “clicker” or “treat-only” trainers—who promote “100% Positive Training” to appeal to owners who are uncomfortable with the idea of correcting their dogs in any way. This marketing is often successful. Yet many of these trainers are either unaware of how their own methods work or are not being fully honest. By definition, punishment includes withholding something the dog wants. So when “Spot” doesn’t sit and doesn’t get the treat… is that not a form of punishment? Just saying.

It’s human nature to criticize what we don’t understand. Most self-proclaimed “positive-only” trainers have never taken the time to learn how to properly use an e-collar. They have no experience with its tremendous benefits, which leads them to dismiss it out of ignorance. Ironically, many of these same trainers support the use of electric fences—even though they operate on the exact same concept.

On the other side of the debate are trainers who recognize the value and effectiveness of e-collars. Of course, even within this group there are individuals who misuse them or rely on them too heavily. But the majority of trained e-collar users incorporate them effectively and responsibly into their programs.

Professional hunting dog trainers like Ronnie Smith, George Wilcox, and Jim & Phyllis Dobbs have successfully used e-collars for decades. I have no doubt they would agree with this simple truth:
If you don’t know how to use an e-collar correctly, do not use one until you receive proper instruction.

The e-collar offers unique advantages: reliable long-distance control, precise timing in training situations, and powerful behavior-modification capability. It’s especially effective for certain unwanted behaviors—take digging, for example. When used properly, the dog doesn’t associate the stimulation with the handler but with the behavior itself, which is exactly what you want in order to correct the issue.

In conclusion, all trainers—regardless of methodology—should agree on one fundamental principle: a lack of understanding or exposure to a training tool should never lead to premature judgment about its effectiveness. The e-collar is no exception.

For any questions, don’t hesitate to contact Jorge A. Fleming with K9-Training Specialist, LLC in Maryland at 301-980-2204 or through our contact form.