Are Dog Training Collars Cruel and Inhumane?


Dog training collars are a controversial topic. People tend to love them or hate them, and we get it. But, nevertheless, many people are against using these types of dog-training collars and think they’re inhumane. 

Let’s look at why so many people feel this way and the benefits of using them in the right context. So, “are dog training collars cruel and inhumane?”

Using a remote-controlled shock collar as a dog trainer can feel pretty cruel. However, if used correctly and with care, remote-controlled shock collars can be helpful for both dog owners and their pets. 

The Humane Society of the United StatesOpens in a new tab. says that a humane way to train a dog is never to use an aversive collar to teach it a lesson that could make it feel bad or even hurt. Also, trying to stop the bad behavior without teaching the dog what is right is counterproductive and may make the dog anxious or mean.

What is a Remote Controlled Shock Collar?

Remote-controlled dog trainingOpens in a new tab. collars deliver an electric shock whenever the owner presses a button on a remote control. This allows dog owners to correct their pets from a distance without touching or getting close to them. These dog training collars work similarly to electronic dog fences but are worn on dogs’ necks rather than placed around their yards. 

Remote-controlled dog training collars are also referred to as “e-collars.” Most of the time, they teach dogs not to be aggressive toward people or other animals or to be trained with strong guarding instincts. They’re also sometimes used to train hunting dogs.

How Do Remote Controlled Shock Collars Work?

When you press a button on the remote, a remote-controlled dog training collar is made to give your dog a small electric shock. While some collars can deliver a shock that would be dangerous to humans, most are designed to deliver only a slight tingle. The intention is to get your dog’s attention with a slight electric jolt but not to cause pain or injury. 

The intensity of your dog’s shock will depend on the setting of your remote-controlled dog training collarOpens in a new tab.. You can adjust the intensity of the shock to get your dog’s attention in the best way possible without causing any lasting pain. Depending on the brand of remote-controlled dog training collar, you’ll either have to press a button on the remote or set it on a timer to administer the shock.

Should You Use a Remote Controlled Shock Collar?

Yes, if used correctly. While a remote-controlled shock collar may sound inhumane, it isn’t if you use it correctly. Dog owners who use remote-controlled training collars should know how to use them correctly. You should never use a remote-controlled shock collar on an unruly, out-of-control dog. Instead, you should use it on a dog that is generally well-behaved but needs a little extra guidance and trainingOpens in a new tab.

Remote-controlled shock dog training collars should be used for well-behaved dogs. They’re not for dogs who need to be trained in the proper way to walk on a leash or sit when they’re told. Those who are completely against using remote-controlled dog training collars will say that they’re inhumane and cause pain to our pets. However, this isn’t the case.

Benefits of Using Dog Training Collars

We’ve already talked about how training collars controlled by a remote can be very helpful for dogs with strong personalities and wills. Now for the benefits.

  1. They’re best used on dogs who know basic commands like sit and stay but need guidance in public or around other people or animals. 
  2. Remote-controlled shock dog training collars can be highly beneficial for dog owners who live in big apartment buildings or who have to walk their dogs near other animals. 
  3. Some dog breeds have strong guarding instincts and can pose a threat to other animals out on a walk. Remote-controlled dog training collars can help owners control these instincts and keep their dogs from causing a scene. 
  4. Remote-controlled dog training collars also benefit owners training their dogs for hunting. Most hunting dogs need to be trained to ignore the sounds of other animals. They also need to be able to focus on their owners’ instructions. 
  5. Remote-controlled dog training collars can be helpful for dogs who are easily distracted by other animals or sounds. 
  6. Remote-controlled dog training collars can also benefit extremely strong-willed dog owners.

Negatives of Using Dog Training Collars

One of the negatives of using remote-controlled dog training collars is that they can cause your dog to develop a fear of your corrections. 

  1. One of the main reasons behind disciplining a dog is to prevent them from being afraid of us. However, when we use a remote-controlled dog training collar, we put a slight distance between our dog and us when we correct them. This could lead to a dog being afraid of its owner. 
  2. Remote-controlled dog training collars can cause your dog not to trust you and lose faith in your relationship. This can be a serious issue if you’re using training collars as a way to correct your dog for things that aren’t dangerous. For example, if you correct your dog for barking a lot, even if barking isn’t dangerous. 
  3. Remote-controlled dog training collars can also cause some physical issues for your dog.

Best Dog Training Collar

Are Dog Training Collars Cruel and Inhumane?

SportDOG Brand 425X Remote TrainersOpens in a new tab.

This SportDOG 425X Remote Trainer can be complex but exciting if you master how to use it. It is commonly used for hunting and sporting dogs because of its quarter-mile range; it is waterproof to a depth of 25 feet and has a range of 1,500 feet, and any dog owner can easily use it. In addition, each remote can control up to three collars simultaneously. This makes them great for sporting events with multiple dogs because each remote has 21 levels of static stimulation, vibration, and tone.

The SportDOG Remote TrainerOpens in a new tab. has an adjustable collar so that you can use it on any dog over 8 pounds, and it has 21 settings for static stimulation. Additionally, you may select between a matte gray or camouflage appearance, and the battery life can last up to 50–70 hours per charge.

It also has a training manual in case you struggle to use it. This makes this dog training collar the most popular and widely used collar. But before you go for an e-training collar for dogs, you must understand what a training collar is and how you should use it.

Pros

  • Rechargeable batteries with a long life span
  • Very popular
  • A guide for training is included.
  • Increased collar capacity
  • Choice of two collars with one remote
  • Operates up to 500 yards

Cons

  • It is expensive

Other dog training methods. 

Dog training course

Another way to train your dog is through a training courseOpens in a new tab.. With dog training courses, you can get the skill and education needed to teach your dog obedience. Learn more about dog training coursesOpens in a new tab. and how to join.

Conclusion

If you are worried about whether “are dog training collars cruel and inhumane,” you should know that an E-training collar for dogs can be very helpful when used correctly. However, they’re best used on dogs who know basic commands like sit and stay and need extra guidance when out in public or around other animals. These types of dog training collars are especially beneficial for extremely strong-willed dog owners. Remote-controlled dog training collars are a controversial topic. Although they can be helpful if used correctly, they can also cause serious issues. Be sure to talk with your veterinarian before using dog training collars on your pup, and read the instructions carefully to ensure you’re using them correctly.

Charles

Charles is a freelance writer whose areas of expertise include home renovation, gardening, and design. A graduate with a degree in Digital Marketing and Business Management. Charles is currently a freelance writer. Charles is always typing away on his laptop or tackling his newest home improvement project. He likes to spend quality time with his family, riding, and working out at the gym.

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