Too often electric collars appear with the adjective “training” or “training .” These are collars that are controlled by means of a remote control from which shocks with different degrees of intensity are inflicted on the animal, depending on what the dog’s owner considers.
In 2014, a study was published in PLOS One on the welfare consequences of the use of electric collars as well as their effectiveness in training compared to reward-based training. The conclusion was very clear: these devices can be harmful to dogs and cause stress and anxiety .
The research was carried out by experts from the University of Lincoln and funded by the UK Government with a sample of 63 dogs. “Dogs that are trained with electric collars are much more anxious, suffer more stress and yawn more; they are also less likely to interact with other dogs and humans, ”explained Jonathan Cooper, research coordinator and university professor of animal behavior and welfare.
As for whether dogs learn more by wearing an electric collar than by using positive training with treats, either edible or caressing or with the clicker, the researchers found no significant differences between one way and another. In fact, according to Cooper, the use of electrical devices has only disadvantages. “The findings suggest that the use of electronic collars on dogs not only does not imply real benefits in canine education, but also poses a risk to the welfare of the animal.” Clearer, water.
Taking the debate to the moral realm, a question should be asked: What right do we have to inflict harm on an animal in order to change behaviors that are by nature canine? And although they are very lawful behaviors to modify, how is it possible that a person who has a dog is able to educate him in such a way? Don’t you feel love for him?
At Muy Pets we totally disagree with these training methods based on punishment and mistreatment of the animal. Ignore what you may hear from another park companion who has put an electric collar on his poor dog, the keys in training your pet are in positive reinforcement, rewards, caresses and, ultimately, in love and patience. Miracles do not exist so the path of education is long but firm and beneficial for both parties, including the dog .
