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Shock Collars for Dogs - Just Say "NO!"
Electric shock collars for dogs are gaining popularity among dog owners who try to keep their dogs contained. There are quite a few products on the market that some dog
owners and trainers claim to be safe and effective. They claim that the electric "stimulation" received by the dog when he tries to cross the visible border is just like
a "tap" on the shoulder - no pain, no shock. They also claim that the collar itself is very safe and the dog will not be accidentally electrocuted.
Quite the contrary, there are reports by dog trainers, owners, and veterinarians on the danger of such shock collars on the physical and mental wellbeing of dogs. There
are also reports that dogs have become increasingly aggressive if they are contained by this kind of electric fence.
Shock Collars for Dogs - The Shocking Facts
Before thinking of using one of these shock collars for dogs on your four-legged companion, take a look at these facts:
- Shock collars and electric fences cannot contain most dogs if there is a strong enough stimulus on the other side of the "fence". That stimulus can
be just a squirrel, a cat, or a postal carrier. The problem is, once the dog has crossed the fence line, he is more reluctant to get back in because he knows that he will
get shocked if he does!
- Dogs are good at association. Shock collars may inadvertently cause a dog to make wrong associations. For example, if a dog crosses the fence line
and receives a shock because he wants to chase after a kid, he may then associate the shock with the kid and become aggressive toward children.
- Shock collars reinforce behaviors by using negative punishment (electric shocks); therefore, be prepared to see all the side-effects of negative
punishment, such as fear, anxiety, and/or aggression.
- Regardless of what the manufacturers tell you, shock collars do malfunction. There have been incidents in which shock collars malfunctioned and
delivered repeated shocks to dogs until their owners returned home to find them seriously injured.
- An invisible fence cannot protect your dog from other dogs or intruders who may get into your yard and do bad things to your dog. It is also possible
that innocent people or dogs may wander into your yard and be bitten by your dog.
Need more shocking facts on shock collars and electric fences for dogs? Visit
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Alternatives to Shock Collars for Dogs
The purpose of shock collars and electric fences is to stop the dogs from roaming. It makes sense therefore to prevent that from happening by early proper training. Do
not let puppies get into the habit of roaming. Keep them at home and make sure that they cannot escape.
Here are some suggestions that you can consider:
- If you are considering getting a puppy or dog, first make sure that your fence is strong and secure. The fence should be at least flush to the ground, or better yet,
buried a few inches. Check for loose boards and rotten spots.
- Make sure that the fence is at least 5 feet high for small dogs, and six feet for medium to large dogs.
- Some dogs are good at opening doors and latches. Make sure that you have dog-proof latches on gates.
- If possible, keep your dog indoors when you are not home. A bored and lonely dog is more prone to escape and roam the streets.
Related Topic
Dog Behavioral Problems
TOP of Shock Collars for Dogs
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