Ditch the shock: Why positive training is the better choice
If you’ve ever wondered whether shock collars (also called e-collars or electronic training collars) are an effective way to train dogs, research provides a clear answer: they cause harm without offering any advantage over positive reinforcement.
This blog post is adapted from a research paper I prepared for my Animal Behaviour Apprenticeship at Dogue Academy, exploring the science behind aversive training tools.
The science behind shock collars
Shock collars work by delivering an electric pulse when a dog performs an unwanted behaviour. Some trainers claim this provides clear feedback, but studies show it often leads to confusion, stress, and fear rather than learning.
A 2020 study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that dogs trained with e-collars showed significantly more stress behaviours, including:
- Lip licking
- Yawning
- Lowered body posture
These dogs were also less engaged with their handlers, which weakened their human-animal bond.
Research from the University of Lincoln (Cooper et al., 2014) confirmed that shock collars offer no advantage over positive reinforcement. Dogs trained without aversive tools learned just as quickly, but with fewer signs of anxiety and no risk of negative associations.
Long-term effects and ethical concerns
Shock collars don’t just cause immediate discomfort—they can have lasting consequences.
Because of these concerns, many countries have banned shock collars, including the UK and several regions in Canada (such as Montreal).
A better way to train
Modern, science-based training doesn’t rely on fear or pain. Instead, positive reinforcement rewards behaviours we want to see more of. This approach:
The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB) and other major organizations advocate for positive reinforcement as the most effective and humane way to train.
Want a better approach to training?
Shock collars aren’t a shortcut to success—they’re a risk that science doesn’t support.
If you’re struggling with unwanted behaviours and want to train your dog using proven, ethical methods, we can help.
📅 Book a private session today, and let’s build a training plan based on trust, science, and results.
Ditch the shock, choose kindness instead.
