Dog Training: Shock Collar Tips

Do your morning walks with your dog feel more like the dog walking you? Does your dog chase everything it sees or bark excessively? Are you having trouble training your dog to obey simple commands? Perhaps a dog training shock collar is what you need.

A shock collar works as a deterrent to bad behavior problems with your dog. They come in a wide variety of sizes, intensities and functionalities. Depending upon what purpose you are using a shock collar, whether to control barking or for obedience training, will determine what type of collar you will need.

Dog training shock collars have come a long way since they were first introduced. People tend to associate shock collars as being inhumane to pets. Dog training shock collars are actually quite effective and safe if used properly. There are some things you should know to use a dog training shock collar in an effective way.

1. Purchase the appropriate size. Make sure you purchase the right size collar for your dog depending upon their size and weight.

2. Read the instructions. Manufacturers have different guidelines with their collars. Be sure to read through the instruction pamphlet thoroughly. Not only will they have useful information on the use of the product but also care and maintenance guidelines.

3. Check the adjustment. Ideally you will want to be able to fit your fingers between the shock collar and your dogs’ skin. The collar should be snug but not too tight.

4. Use the lowest setting. Adjust the shock settings on the collar to the lowest possible levels to correct your dog. If it is too high the dog will react negatively and if it is too low they won’t react at all.

5. Do not play with shock collar use. A dog training shock collar is not a toy. Only use the corrective measures when they are warranted. Remember a shock collar is a training device.

6. Back up correction with voice commands. When your dog demonstrates bad behavior always precede any shock correction with a voice command. This will help your dog to associate your voice and tone with certain behaviors.

7. Always praise your dog for good behavior. When a dog has learned a command or stopped acting out in disruptive ways, be sure to praise him. Dogs should have positive reinforcement for good behavior just as they have positive correction for bad behavior.

Always make time to play with your dog after training sessions as well. Dogs will associate this play time as a reward for their obedience as well as just plain fun. Making time for your dog will build a bond between you and them that is inseparable.

Dogs will and should act like dogs. Sometimes though natural dog behaviors can be extreme and cause you frustration, embarrassment, or in worst cases money from damages. Positive behavior training with a dog training shock collar is a very effective way of controlling your dogs’ behavior. Used properly, you and your dog will have a rewarding experience.