Features and Benefits of Shock Collars for Small Dogs With An In-Depth Look

Electronic collars are unpleasant training tools that deliver an electric stimulation to change the dog’s behavior in certain situations. Although they are good for some training objectives, great care has to be taken when using them on small dogs since they are small and sensitive. This article focuses on the advantages of using shock collar for small dogs as well as possible risks.

Pros of Using Shock Collars for Small Dogs

One possible advantage is enhancing the response to commands, particularly when the dog is released and is small in size. The “shock” that follows informs the dog in the same instance, giving a confirmation to the handler’s command. This can mean improved off-leash obedience. However, other modern training methods should be searched for before deciding on the shock collar.

Stop Nuisance Barking  

Anti-bark collars can help small dogs stop nuisance barking. The shock stops the barking and the possibility of the other shock discourages the barking. However, there are specially designed bark collars, which are preferable to the usual shock collars. These devices give a mild, humane static correction when barking is noticed by the device.

Discourage Aggression  

If small dogs have issues with aggression, shock collars could aid in eliminating dominant and aggressive behavior. The shock stops the aggression, while the collar’s presence can be seen as a signal for the dog not to behave in such a manner. However, the issues that lead to aggression should also be treated using positive reinforcement training and supervision and not just by the use of shock collars.

Some guidelines to follow when using shock collars

To avoid this, ensure that you purchase a correctly fitted shock collar that is appropriate for use on small dogs only. The contacts need to come into contact with skin and loose collars may chaff. Also, make sure that the shock level is appropriate for your small-sized dog to handle. The shock levels should begin very low and only rise to higher levels if they are required to do so at all. 

Shock collars should only be used when it is unavoidable and should not be used for long periods. Use the shock to disrupt unwanted behaviors, but to avoid causing more suffering than is necessary. Further, it is important to remove the collar from use once the desired training aim has been achieved. Only use shock collars when the ethical standards for using them are followed and your dog’s health is considered.  

Shock collars should always be used together with positive reinforcement training for the best results to be achieved. Besides using the collar for selective correction, make sure to reward your small dog for good behavior. This balance is important to avoid confusing your dog so that they do not know when to expect a reward or a correction. Using shock collars alone is not humane and not recommended for dog trainers.  

Supervise Your Dog

When training your small dog with a shock collar, it is wise to ensure that the dog is closely monitored, particularly in the initial stages. Pay attention to the overall demeanor and signs of more stress, tiredness, mood swings or loss of appetite. Even if you initially apply it, your dog’s response within the first couple of weeks will help you determine if you should continue using the shock collar or not.

Electric collars should not be used on dogs that are under the age of six months, as it is known to have a detrimental effect on their behavior. Do not use shock collars for old, pregnant, nursing, or those dogs that have medical complications that may worsen upon administration of electronic stimulation.  

Consider Working With Trainer

It is recommended to take a look at the shock collar to see if the skin in the areas where the contacts touch the neck of your dog becomes red. If these signs are apparent, the collar should be taken off, and the owner needs to visit the veterinarian if the skin inflammation does not resolve within 48 hours of the collar being removed. Besides, to ensure that it is safe, sometimes it is advisable to check that it is functional and that the batteries are charged occasionally.

If this is your first time using small shock collar, it is possible that you consult the professional dog trainer who understands their uses and on how they can be used safely. An experienced trainer will ensure that the collar is introduced as well as used in the most ethical and efficient manner so that it does not stress up your small dog. 

Conclusion

In terms of positive effects, shock collars can be useful to some extent and in the right hands, they can provide improved obedience. However, today’s positive reinforcement methods should be exhausted before the electronic collar on small dogs is used. Mention to clients that you need to consider your particular dog’s personality and potential reaction to the shock and then decide whether a shock collar is right for you if it is handled only in certain circumstances. Like any other training equipment, the safety of the dog should always come first.