Why We Don't Sell Shock Collars

We do not sell shock collars at Pet Expertise. This is because we feel strongly that these products can easily cause serious harm to dogs. Because the shock is painful, it could cause a dog to become fearful or aggressive.

We believe that is is much safer and more effective (and fun!) to train your dog using a combination of prevention of unwanted behavior and rewards for good behavior under the guidance of a professional positive trainer.

We are not the only ones who feel that shock collars are unsafe for use with dogs. Here is some more information from some very smart folks!:

• A review of a scientific article by behavioral veterinarian Dr. Sophia Yin:

  Are Shock Collars Painful or Just Annoying to Dogs?

• From the Humane Society of the US

  : "The least humane and most controversial use of the shock collar is as a training device. The trainer can administer a shock to a dog at a distance through a remote control. There is a greater chance for abuse (delivery of shocks as punishment) or misuse (poor timing of shocks). Your dog also may associate the painful shock with people or other experiences, leading to fearful or aggressive behavior."

• From the ASPCA:

  "Electronic collars can be effective [they are talking about bark collars here specifically] when used in appropriate circumstances, but we would never recommend their use without guidance from a behaviorist or CCPDT-certified dog trainer experienced with electronic training products. Any form of punishment can induce trauma in sensitive dogs."

• From Dr. Ilana R Reisner, Veterinary Behaviorist:

  "Aversive tools such as electric stimulation (shock), prong, or training (choke) collars that require pulling and jerking to work, hitting and scolding can increase anxiety and therefore increase the risk of biting; in addition, they are likely to lead to treatment failure."

• From Dr. Karen Overall, Veterinary Behaviorist:

  "I've seen so many animals damaged by shock. And I've seen people devastated when they realize that the dog who they love has been made a nervous wreck or aggressive because they've chosen the wrong training method."
• Furthermore, because of the scientific studies as well as the opinions of Veterinary behaviorists many European Countries (and Pet Expertise!) have banned the sale of shock collars.
• Read some more studies on the use of shock collars in dog training.

Not convinced? If the above has not convinced you to avoid shock collars and you plan to purchase one anyway, we strongly urge you to find a dog trainer that is very experienced in the use of those devices to help you. Also please be aware that inexpensive shock collars can shock the dog too strongly or not work predictably making them even more dangerous to your dog's mental health. So please do research the collar you buy carefully.

Need some help with your dog's problem behaviors? Check out our Problem Solving Pages and click here for help finding a positive dog trainer.