The terms, "e-collar" or "shock collar" can evoke some pretty strong feelings from dog lovers. The fact is, used properly, the e-collar is a wonderful tool to help in training your pet. In the hands of a jerk, or someone that has no clue how to use one, the e-collar could do way more harm than good. I've seen the collar used both ways, and I've seen the results.

The e-collar or shock collar, gets it's name from how it works. Your pet wears a special collar with a receiver attached. The receiver is capable of delivering a "stimulation" which is designed to get the attention of the dog. A good e-collar will have varying levels of stimulation which is controlled by the pet owner and can be adjusted from the transmitter . The transmitter is a small, handheld device that allows the owner or trainer to remotely deliver that stimulation. Many of today's e-collars are capable of not only delivering that stimulus in the way of a light shock, but also through a "pager" function which causes the receiver on the collar to "vibrate", much like the vibrate mode on a cell phone or pager.

While using a "shock collar" may sound barbaric and cruel to some, I can assure you that these collars are not as terrible as some would make them out to be. And again, used correctly, these collars can produce amazing results.

Advantages of using e-collars for training your dog:

• Improvements happen quickly! Weeks or months of training are reduced considerably
  
• When using an e-collar, you dog will receive immediate correction for mistakes
• You will have control of your pet, even when off leash!
• Prevent your dog from running away
• Allow them to roam and play in the park or in the yard without worrying
• Stop yelling at your dog and start praising them when they receive correction and do as instructed
• No need to constantly bribe your pet with treats
• Reduce the stress on yourself as well as your dog

When used appropriately, e-collar training isn't something that should have to be ongoing. As your pet learns to follow directions, owners typically find that their dogs will respond without the use of the collar.