How to Apply an E-Collar

Dog training methods are as varied and unique as the individual dogs themselves. A multitude of collars exist, including electronic collars, commonly referred to as e-collars. An e-collar fits tightly around the dog's neck, and emits a brief shock at the push of a button. These collars are often used on hunting dogs that work at a distance from their handlers, but are also effective on stubborn and hard-to-train dogs. An e-collar should be used by experienced trainers, or under close professional supervision.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the dog's neck, in inches, with a measuring tape. Hold the end of the tape against the neck under the dog's chin, and wrap the tape fully around the neck. Pull the tape snug, and note the measurement.

    • 2

      Buy an e-collar in accordance with the dog's neck size. Most collars come in a size range, so select a collar in the correct range. For example, a dog with a 21-inch neck measurement needs a collar that measures between 20 and 22 inches long.

    • 3

      Buckle the collar around the dog's neck. Hold the electronic receiver at the junction of the head and neck, directly under the chin. Tighten the collar until the metal prongs at the back of the receiver make contact with the dog's skin. It is necessary that the prongs make contact with the skin at all times for the collar to be effective.

    • 4

      Turn the receiver to the "On" position, and follow the instructions for proper use. If the e-collar is for a barking dog, leave the collar on the dog at all times. If the collar uses a manual controller that must be pushed when the dog needs to be corrected, remove the collar after each training session.