Electric shock collars for dogs: why England says ‘no more’

Electric shock collars for dogs have been a topic of debate for a long time. 

However, from 1st February 2024, the government in England will officially ban the use of remote-controlled electric shock collars, following in the footsteps of other countries that have already banned them. 

In this article, we’ll explore the reasons behind the decision and the implications it will have for the future of dog training.

We will delve into the science behind these devices and alternative training methods.

Moreover, we’ll examine the impact that this ban will have on dog guardians and their furry friends. 

So, let’s take a deep dive into the world of electric shock collars for dogs together.

What is an electric shock collar and how does it work?

Electric shock collars have been used for decades as a tool for training dogs. They consist of two metal probes that contact the dog’s skin and pass an electrical current between them through the skin tissue.

They’re designed to add something the dog doesn’t like (the shock) to stop behaviour the human doesn’t like. 

Here’s a simple example:

A dog barks at a person walking past their garden so a shock is given. A shock is applied every time the dog barks at passers by. In order to avoid the pain the dog stops barking at people when they pass the garden.

In this instance, positive punishment has been used to stop the dog barking at people passing the garden. 

However, as we discuss later in this article, what the dog has the potential to learn is not that straightforward. There’s always a fallout to using positive punishment and it’s unpredictable!

These collars can be activated using various technologies, including a remote control where the user selects the level of shock and when it is delivered. 

In a clip from five years ago, Phillip Schofield can be seen experiencing an electric shock from a remote-controlled collar during a debate, and his reaction is captured.

During the interview, Eryn Martyn-Godfrey points out that a dog’s epidermis is thinner than a human’s, making it impossible to compare the sensation of an electric shock collar on a human to that on a dog.

Additionally, in order to elicit a response from a dog in a heightened state with increased adrenaline, the collar would need to be set at a much higher level.

While some trainers believe that these collars are an effective tool for correcting a dog’s behaviour, the scientific evidence supporting their use is still debated. 

Many animal behaviour experts argue that these devices can cause unnecessary stress and pain for the dog, and may even lead to long-term behavioural problems.

In the next section, we’ll explore the science behind electric shock collars and examine the potential risks of using them as a training tool. 

Lastly, we’d like to extend our gratitude to Eryn Martyn-Godfrey for sharing her insights on this topic. You can find out more about Eryn here.

The science behind electric shock collars for dogs

While some trainers advocate for the use of electric shock collars as an effective training tool, animal behaviour experts have raised concerns about their safety and effectiveness. 

A study published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science (2007) found that the use of electric shock collars is associated with indicators of stress in dogs, including an increase in cortisol levels.

A 2014 study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that dogs who were trained with electric shock collars showed signs of stress, even when performing simple tasks.

The study involved a group of 63 pet dogs who were randomly assigned to one of three training groups: one that used an electric shock collar, one that used a vibration collar, and one that used positive reinforcement training. 

The researchers found that dogs in the electric shock collar group exhibited more stress-related behaviours, such as yawning and lip licking, than dogs in the other two groups.

E-collar training did not result in a substantially superior response to training in comparison to similarly experienced trainers who do not use e-collars to improve recall and control chasing behaviour. Accordingly, it seems that the routine use of e-collars even in accordance with best practice (as suggested by collar manufacturers) presents a risk to the well-being of pet dogs.

The Welfare Consequences and Efficacy of Training Pet Dogs with Remote Electronic Training Collars in Comparison to Reward Based Training (2014)

The results show that using aversive training methods (e.g., positive punishment and negative reinforcement) can jeopardize both the physical and mental health of dogs. In addition, although positive punishment can be effective, there is no evidence that it is more effective than positive reinforcement–based training. In fact, there is some evidence that the opposite is true

The effects of using aversive training methods in dogs—A review (2017)

The research highlights the negative impact that electric shock collars can have on dogs.

So much so, “multiple veterinary and force free training associations state in their policies that shock collars should never be used such as;

Countless international animal welfare charities are also advocating for shock collars to be banned due to how they compromise animal welfare” (Leslie, 2020).

While some trainers may argue that these collars are effective, the evidence suggests that they cause unnecessary stress and discomfort for our dogs.

Why these devices are harmful to dogs

Electric shock collars are marketed as a convenient solution for dog guardians struggling with unwanted behaviours, but the potential harm that these devices can cause to dogs far outweighs any benefits they might offer.

When a dog is subjected to an electric shock, he can experience physical pain and psychological stress, leading to the development of new anxieties and behavioural issues. 

Studies have shown that dogs who are trained with shock collars exhibit increased stress-related behaviours, such as paw licking and yawning.

Moreover, these devices can damage the bond between a dog and their guardian.

Dogs may start to associate their guardian with the pain caused by the shock collar, leading to a breakdown in trust and a weaker relationship. This can be particularly harmful for dogs that already suffer from anxiety or have experienced trauma in the past.

It is also essential to consider that dogs cannot understand why they are being electrocuted.

Dogs don’t think, ‘oh it’s wrong to bark at people passing my garden’ or ‘it’s wrong to chase sheep’. They don’t learn right from wrong like we do.

They’re communicating a need or expressing a natural behaviour.

As their guardians, who chose to bring a dog into our homes, it’s our responsibility to teach them the behaviour that we do like, connect with them on a deep level and learn to see the world from their perspective. 

Additionally, dogs may not connect the shock with their behaviour.

In the example at the beginning of this blog, the dog could learn that every time they see a person they experience pain. Which can lead to fear and anxiety of people or anything else in the environment at that time.

This lack of understanding can cause further emotional distress and may exacerbate the dog’s existing behaviour problems.

Overall, it’s crucial to prioritise the wellness and happiness of our furry companions and to explore alternative training methods that don’t rely on harmful and unnecessary devices.

Alternatives to electric shock collars

Animal welfare organisations, such as the RSPCA and the Kennel Club, have emphasised the importance of using positive reinforcement methods to train dogs. 

Positive reinforcement involves rewarding desirable behaviour, rather than punishing undesirable behaviour, and has been shown to be a more effective and humane training method in the long term. 

Examples of positive reinforcement techniques include clicker training, where a sound is used to signal to the dog that they have performed a desired behaviour, and reward-based training, where the dog is given treats or a game with their favourite toy for performing a desired behaviour. 

In addition to being more effective and humane, positive reinforcement training can also help to build a stronger bond between dog and guardian, as the dog learns to associate good behaviour with positive outcomes and praise from their guardian. 

Furthermore, positive reinforcement training can help to address the underlying causes of undesirable behaviour, rather than just suppressing the behaviour with punishment.

This can lead to more long-term changes in the dog’s behaviour and can help to prevent the development of new behavioural problems. 

Therefore, it is important to consider the use of positive reinforcement training methods as a humane and effective alternative to electric shock collars.

As responsible dog guardians, it’s important to explore alternative training methods that prioritise the well-being and happiness of our furry friends. Fortunately, there are many humane and effective alternatives to electric shock collars that can be used to train dogs.

Additionally, training programmes and courses are available to help dog guardians learn more effective ways to train their dogs. Check out my website here 😉

These programmes may cover topics such as behaviour modification, real world training, and socialisation and can be a great way for dog guardians to learn new techniques and get support from trained professionals.

By exploring these alternatives, dog guardians can provide their dogs with effective and humane training methods that prioritise their well-being and happiness. 

In the next section, we’ll examine the impact of the electric shock collar ban in the UK and how this decision is affecting dog guardians across the country.

The impact of the electric shock collar ban in the UK

The ban on electric shock collars in the UK is a significant achievement for animal welfare, and it is vital to acknowledge its impact on dog guardians and their dogs. 

This decision has resulted in a positive shift towards more compassionate training methods that prioritise the well-being of our furry friends.

One of the most significant benefits of the ban is that it will encourage dog guardians to explore more appropriate training techniques.

Positive reinforcement and reward-based training have emerged as popular alternatives that not only promote good behaviour in dogs but also strengthen the bond between dogs and their guardians.

In addition, the ban will raise awareness of the potential dangers associated with electric shock collars.

Dog guardians who previously may not have been aware of the risks associated with these devices are now better informed, and this will lead to increased awareness of the negative impact electric shocks can have on dogs’ health and behaviour.

Moreover, the ban has contributed to a broader shift in attitudes towards dog training practices. 

The adoption of positive reinforcement techniques recognises that dogs are intelligent and sentient beings that require respect and understanding. 

By prioritising their dogs’ well-being, dog guardians are creating happier, healthier, and better-behaved dogs, which ultimately benefits both dogs and their human families.

If you still have objections or concerns about the use of electric shock collars, I encourage you to read this excellent Facebook post by The Mutty Professor.

In conclusion, the UK’s ban on electric shock collars is a crucial milestone for animal welfare, and dog guardians must make informed decisions about the training methods they use. 

By embracing humane and effective training techniques, we can create a culture of compassion and respect for our furry companions. 

As Gandhi once said, “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated.” 

Let us continue to strive towards being a great nation for our four-legged friends.

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