10/16/2021
Spooky Scary Skele- Collars
There are some collars out there that can seem a bit scary or controversial. But as with any training tool, it’s on the human to use them properly, safely, and effectively. Today we’ll focus on the stim collar. Also known as shock collar, e-collar, or electronic collar.
Before we move on, we must clarify the misnomer of shock collars. These collars do not administer harmful “shocks”, they provide an electrical stimulation similar to a TENS unit that us humans use. High-end proper stim collars offer multiple forms of stimulation on one type of collar. For example, the Mini Educator provides stims of many levels, pure vibration, or just a tone.
These types of collars were originally used with hunting dogs to help correct a dog's behavior from a distance. They are now used for both hunting, working, and pet use.
Stim collars can be used for any size and breed of dog. However, like many corrective tools, they are not recommended to be used on fearful dogs.
When used properly, an e-collar does not harm or injure the dog. Before one even considers using the collar, the dog should first know the command or task that is required of them, be at the very least 6 months old, and MOST importantly the HUMAN should be properly trained on all the inner workings of the system, when to correct, and how to correct. This tool is not for beginner trainers or handlers and it is recommended for the person to be properly shown by a professional trainer.
Do not go “cheap” with these collars. Cheap is where you hear of the horror stories of products malfunctioning and injuring dogs along with extreme improper care. You want a proper collar that is going to perform the way you expect. Distance, weight, and controls are some criteria when picking out specific models of stim collars. Heeling Arts Academy has experience with two brands: the SportsDog and Educator lines. Both brands have multiple models to choose from so that you can find that right fit for you and your dog.
As with all training tools, the goal is to eventually phase out these collars so your dog behaves on a general flat collar.
This is of course only a brief overview of stim collars and what is needed. If you are interested, we recommend looking into it more and/or contacting us.
If you have any additional questions about e-collars, give us a call, email, or message us directly.