Electric collars, or "shock" collars, are used to correct your dog's behavior. The shock is administered when she behaves badly until she obeys your commands. Although animal advocates are often opposed to these types of collars, they have various levels of stimulation and can be adjusted according to the reaction of your dog. It can be as low as a slight tingle or a shock you might get when you pick up static from a carpet and then touch someone. You can find the appropriate level by turning it up slowly. You only need enough stimulation that the dog can feel it.
Things You'll Need
- Electric dog collar
- Regular collar
- Leash
- Reward treats
Instructions
Find the appropriate level for your dog. Start at the lowest "shock" level and gradually increase it until you see a reaction from your dog. You want her to react, but she should not physically jump from the jolt. It will be obvious when it has her attention when she "starts" and looks around to try to determine where it came from.
Take your dog for a walk and watch for behaviors you want to correct. For example, he may start to pull toward another dog or try to run away. At that point, depress the button to give him the electronic stimulation. At the same time, give him the command to "heel" or "sit" or whatever you want to use, and pull back on the leash. Continue to send the "shock" until you get the results you want.
Release the button for the electronic stimulation only when she responds to your command. Then reward her and offer a treat. Repeat this a number of times before she gets the idea that by obeying your command, the "shock" will stop and she'll be rewarded.
Do this for other unwanted behaviors as well, such as stopping him from getting into garbage cans. Depress the button when he nears the can, call him back to you, and stop the stimulation as soon as he begins to respond. Be sure to offer a reward every time.
Keep the collar on your dog at all times. Otherwise, she'll learn that the stimulation is only associated with the collar and when she isn't wearing it, there's nothing to stop her from resorting to her previous behaviors.