Let’s Talk About E-Collars: Why Dog Trainers Are So Divided #304
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Apr 30, 2025
Dive into the heated debate over electric collars in dog training. Discover the shocking range of practices from effective conditioning to alarming misuse. Learn about the booming e-collar market in North America and the implications of banning such tools. Hear insights on the importance of solid training foundations for all dogs. Explore the concept of dopamine and its role in reinforcement for trainers. This discussion encourages collaboration and understanding among dog trainers to bridge the divide in training philosophies.
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volunteer_activism ADVICE
Avoid Divisive Trainer Labels
Avoid harsh labeling of trainers as purely e-collar or force-free; biases hinder learning and unity.
Aim for neutral thinking to reduce division and promote respectful conversations in dog training.
insights INSIGHT
E-Collar Market Growth Risks
The electric collar market grows 10% annually in North America with $200 million spent yearly.
Easy access without education leads to misuse and potential legislative bans.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Advocate Self-Regulation to Avoid Bans
Regulate e-collar use internally to prevent harmful emotional use and potential government bans.
Educate users before they resort to improper electric collar application on puppies or untrained dogs.
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I set out to do a podcast episode explaining why I choose not to use an electric collar with my dogs and with my students' dogs. It sent me down a spiral of research and careful consideration. So, after nearly 40 hours reviewing videos from trainers who use e-collars, I'm sharing observations about the wide spectrum of electric collar use in the training world. From excellent conditioning protocols to concerning misuse, what I discovered may surprise both those who use shock collars and those who don't.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
• About hours spent watching videos of training with electric collars. • The types of electric devices available for dog training. • About the growing e-collar market in North America. • My thoughts about bans on dog training tools. • About the possibilities of learning from each other. • My observations on the use of shock collars. • The question of dopamine and what’s really being reinforced for the trainer. • Why all dogs need solid training foundations and layered learning. • How reducing the divide in dog training helps us all.
Shaped by Dog with Susan Garrett