In the ever-evolving world of dog training, technology has brought big changes that have transformed the way we communicate with our dogs. One of the most notable (and near and dear to my heart) is the development of the modern E Collar, often misunderstood due to its association with the old school shock collar. And that’s where the idea for this blog post came to mind. Over the last six years, I’ve shared so much about E Collar training over on Instagram - specifically what’s possible when using the E Collar over the course of two weeks when working with reactive/anxious/pushy dogs. And every now and then I’ll get the comment - but isn’t that a shock collar?

It’s so different from an old-school shock collar, I type back.

But that’s never enough. So I wanted to put all my thoughts on this topic in one spot to hopefully help more people understand.

By highlighting the differences between the kind of E Collars I use (with at least 100 levels) and the outdated shock collars of the past, I’m hopeful it will help you see how much E Collar training has evolved over the years.

Understanding the E Collar: Then and Now

Old School Shock Collars: A Brief History

The original shock collars, introduced in the mid-20th century, were designed as a training tool primarily for hunting dogs. These devices delivered a high-intensity electric shock intended to correct unwanted behavior. However, the technology at the time was basic, and the collars often lacked precision. With minimal levels (10-20) leading to inconsistent and sometimes harsh corrections, some dogs were left more anxious or fearful than before. The term "shock collar" understandably garnered a negative connotation due to these early models and their potential for misuse.

The Evolution to Modern E Collars

Today's E Collars, also known as electronic collars or remote training collars, have evolved big time from their predecessors. Modern E Collars are designed with advanced technology that allows for a range of stimulation levels, from a gentle vibration or beep to a mild static stimulation. The goal of these devices is not to shock the dog, but rather to provide a gentle reminder or cue that can guide the dog’s behavior in a positive and humane way.

Key Differences Between Modern E Collars and Old School Shock Collars

Precision and Control

Modern E Collars offer a wide range of stimulation levels, allowing trainers to fine-tune the intensity to match the individual dog's temperament and sensitivity. This precision helps ensure that the correction is noticeable to the dog without causing distress. *This isn’t to say that you’ll never have to use levels that are uncomfortable to your dog, but for the most part, the E Collar is used as a communication tool at levels that your dog feels - not always as a correction. You can listen to me talk more about this topic - related to reactivity - in one of our latest podcast episodes linked here.

Variety of Cues

Unlike old shock collars, which primarily used a single high-intensity shock, modern E Collars provide multiple modes of communication. These include auditory signals (beeps), and varying levels of static stimulation - similar to the technology of a TENS unit used in physical therapy. This variety enables trainers to use the least invasive method necessary to achieve the desired behavior.

Safety Features

Advanced E Collars come equipped with safety features such as automatic shut-off mechanisms to prevent overstimulation and safeguards to ensure the collar is used correctly. This helps prevent accidental or prolonged stimulation that could harm the dog.

Positive Associations

Modern E Collar training is often combined with positive reinforcement techniques. As a trainer, I use the E Collar to mark desired behaviors, which are then reinforced with treats or praise. This combination helps build a positive association with the E Collar, promoting learning and strengthening the bond between dog and owner.

The Benefits of Modern E Collar Training

Effective Communication

E Collars can enhance communication between dog and owner, especially in situations where verbal commands are less effective, such as at a distance or in noisy environments. Or when your dog has selective hearing - only listening when they want to or when you have treats.

Improved Behavior and Safety

By providing consistent and immediate feedback, E Collars can help dogs learn commands and boundaries more quickly. This can be particularly beneficial for off-leash training, recall, and addressing specific behavior issues - like barking, reactivity, jumping on people or pulling on leash.

Better Quality of Life

Proper use of an E Collar can lead to a more confident and well-behaved dog, allowing for greater freedom and a richer, more fulfilling life for both you and your dog.

In conclusion

The evolution of E Collar training represents a significant shift towards more humane and effective methods of dog training. Modern E Collars can be a valuable tool for enhancing communication and improving behavior. It's essential to understand the differences between these contemporary devices and the old school shock collars to appreciate the advancements in technology and training philosophy that prioritize the well-being of our dogs.

If you're considering E Collar training for your dog, we recommend starting with our E Collar Starter Guide for step-by-step guidance (and if you want to how it’s helped other owners just like you, click here). With over 30 detailed videos, we walk you through the entire process of E Collar training, from the very basics to advanced techniques. Whether you're new to E Collar training or looking to refine your skills, our course is structured to support your journey every step of the way.