5 Reasons Why Are Shock Collars Bad For Dogs?

The dog training collars, popularly known as shock collars, have been used for centuries. The purpose behind its development was to control the unwanted behavior of your dogs.

But these were not multi-functional. Rather, they had just one speed, and the person himself needed to adjust the speed as needed.

As the technology progressed, shock collars also modified and became more advanced and effective. Now, they can be used to give mild and harsh shocks according to your dog’s temperament.

Now, the question that arises in the minds of the pet owners is, Are shock collars bad for dogs? The simple answer can be a “yes” or a “no,” but as a responsible pet guardian, you must interpret the answer by gaining ample knowledge about shock collars.

I will discuss the pros and cons of using a shock collar in this blog. Keep scrolling to make an informed decision about the query.

What Is A Shock Collar?

A shock collar is a small training device that delivers an electric shock to your pet when it misbehaves. Most shock collars come with two modes: On and Off. Many different types of shock collars and models are available in the market today.

What Are The Different Kinds Of Shock Collars?

How Do Shock Collars Work?

Shock collars use an electronic unit that sends a powerful electrical current into a metal probe attached to the pet’s collar. The collar contains a tiny battery. When the animal misbehaves, the collar sends a charge to the probe.

This causes a jolt of electricity to travel through the pet’s body. When the animal realizes it has received an electrical shock, it will instantly comply with your command.

Some shock collars send an electrical charge to the animal’s nose. Others can be placed on your pet’s leg, arm, or another part of his body.

Are Shock Collars Bad For Dogs?

The E-collar training devices are used for effective training of your dog. Make sure to read the manual of the product carefully.

Only an experienced person should introduce a shock collar to a dog. It can be very dangerous if the device is mishandled. It is possible to injure or even kill your dog.

5 Reasons Why Shock Collars Are Bad For Dogs?

Shock collars are indeed a reliable tool for dog training but there are some reservations about its use for a dog’s well-being. Positive reinforcement techniques are always far encouraged.

Since a dog is well-being rather than a companion of man, in my opinion,  a man’s psyche will be a more effective training tool than any other machine.

Here are 5 important reasons you should know why shock collars are bad for dogs.

1. Shock Collar Hurts

The basic and most important thing according to me is that the shock collar hurts your dog. Undoubtedly it’s just a jerk but still it’s a machine that can be mishandled anytime for any reason. Many companies claim that their products (shock collars) are not harmful for your dog but they are not more than marketing techniques.

2. Stressful  For Your Dog

Incorporating a physical device around a neck definitely causes stress for your pet. It can create a feeling of fear and anxiety all the time.

Apart from learning, they feel themselves controlled which can cause a state of depression, and ultimately your dog will be more aggressive.

3. Creates a Gap Between You and Your Pet

Dogs are loving creatures, furry pals of man. When you try to control them with a physical punishment, they will feel it. Not only physical punishment but they would get emotionally disturbed also. It would create a rift between you and your furry pal.

4. Risk of Physical Harm

While using a shock collar the risk of physical harm to your dog is like a suspended sword. After all a device is a device!! and can be out of practice anytime. Its malfunction can cause physical harm to your pet.

5. Alternatives are there

Last but not least, a very important reason why shock collars are bad for dogs is that we have many positive reinforcement methods for training dogs. Human training is the best training to control unwanted behavior. Why use a device when there are other healthy alternatives possible?

The Advantages of Using Shock Collars

There are some advantages to using a shock collar too. Some are enlisted down here.

Are Shock Collars Good For Training Dogs?

Shock collars are a credible tool for training dogs. They are recommended by dog behaviorists to control the unwanted behavior of dogs. 

You must learn to install and use a shock collar before incorporating it into your pet. Start with the lower level training and then proceed to higher.

Bottom Line

In a nutshell, I would say that the use of shock collars is not a forbidden and absolutely harmful practice. However, the positive reinforcement of human techniques are always encouraged and preferred. Although many professional trainers use shock collars as training tools and they have its positive sides also but avoiding them would save your pet from any possible danger.

Frequently Asked Questions