Here are 3 more Scientific studies about Electronic Collars.
Electronic collars have been a controversial topic in the world of dog training. While some trainers and pet owners swear by their effectiveness, others raise concerns about the potential harm they can cause to dogs. Here, we’ll take a closer look at three studies that shed light on the pros and cons of electronic collars.
The first study, conducted by Lines in 2016 [1], discussed the pros and cons of electronic training devices. The study found that electronic collars can be an effective tool for certain types of dog training, such as recall training. However, the study also noted that electronic collars can cause stress and pain to dogs if not used correctly, and that some dogs may develop a negative association with the collar.
The second study, conducted by Rooney and Cowan in 2011, explored the links between training methods, owner-dog interactions, and dog behavior and learning ability [2]. The study found that positive reinforcement-based training methods, such as reward-based training, were associated with better dog behavior and learning outcomes. On the other hand, punishment-based training methods, such as the use of electronic collars, were associated with poorer outcomes.
The third study, conducted by Schalke et al. in 2007, examined the clinical signs caused by the use of electric training collars on dogs in everyday life situations [3]. The study found that dogs trained with electronic collars exhibited more signs of stress and anxiety, such as lip licking and yawning, than dogs trained with positive reinforcement methods. The study also found that some dogs developed skin lesions from the collar.
In conclusion, while electronic collars can be an effective tool for dog training, they can also have negative impacts on dogs’ welfare if not used correctly. Positive reinforcement-based training methods have been found to be associated with better dog behavior and learning outcomes, while punishment-based methods, such as the use of electronic collars, have been associated with poorer outcomes. It’s important to use electronic collars with caution and under the guidance of a professional trainer or behaviorist.
- Lines, J.A. (2016). Electronic training devices: discussion on the pros and cons. Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 16, 61-67. doi: 10.1016/j.jveb.2016.06.002
- Rooney, N.J., & Cowan, S. (2011). Training methods and owner-dog interactions: Links with dog behaviour and learning ability. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 132(3-4), 169-177. doi: 10.1016/j.applanim.2011.03.007
- Schalke, E., Stichnoth, J., Ott, S., & Jones-Baade, R. (2007). Clinical signs caused by the use of electric training collars on dogs in everyday life situations. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 105(4), 369-380. doi: 10.1016/j.applanim.2006.11.002
