06/13/2025
A landmark study that directly addresses this question is:
Cooper, J. J., Cracknell, N., Hardiman, J., Wright, H., & Mills, D. S. (2014). The welfare consequences and efficacy of training pet dogs with remote electronic training collars in comparison to reward based training. PLOS ONE, 9(9), e102722. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0102722
Summary of Key Findings:
Study design: This was a controlled, scientific field study conducted by researchers at the University of Lincoln. It compared three groups:
Dogs trained using e-collars (shock collars) by experienced industry trainers
Dogs trained by the same trainers but without shock
Dogs trained by independent force-free trainers using positive reinforcement only
Trainers were certified and professional, with Group A and B trainers belonging to the Electronic Collar Manufacturers Association (ECMA) and having extensive experience using the devices.
Key results:
There was no significant difference in training efficacy between the groups using shock and those not using it.
Dogs trained with positive reinforcement exhibited fewer signs of stress and anxiety.
The study concluded that the use of shock collars was unnecessary and posed welfare risks without added training benefits.
Salivary cortisol levels, behavioral stress indicators (e.g., yawning, lip licking), and vocalizations were higher in the shock collar group.
Conclusion:
The researchers explicitly stated that the use of e-collars "has negative welfare consequences for some dogs" and "no clear advantage over reward-based training"—thus the use of shock collars is not justified.
So, even if the person operating the collar is a manufacturer-trained professional, this study showed the results were no better than training without shock, and the use of electronic collars resulted in unnecessary stress.
Cindy Ludwig, MA, BS, RN, KPA-CTP, CPDT-KA
Owner, Canine Connection LLC
Voted Best Springfield, Missouri Dog Trainer
