Training a dog using kind, effective and safe techniques is essential for their wellbeing; training allows a dog to understand the expectations of our human world, and learning basic commands like ‘sit’ and recall can prevent them from getting into scrapes or causing injuries to others, even if that damage is coming from a place of well-meaning enthusiasm. On another level, many dogs are trained each year for roles in the army, emergency services or as assistance dogs for humans. As dog training methods have developed, and with animal welfare science increasingly able to inform us about dogs’ wants and needs based on their perceptions of the world around them, so has our understanding and attitudes towards humane and effective training techniques.
The electric ‘shock collar’ was developed about 50 years ago, to train dogs by delivering electric pulses to the dog wearing the device when the owner saw the dog performing unwanted behaviour. Some, but not all, collars deliver warning vibrations before finally delivering an electric pulse. Yet research by such as Shalke, Stichnoth and Jones-Baade (2005) shows that the application of electric stimuli, even at a low level, can cause physiological and behavioural responses associated with stress, pain and fear in dogs. On reviewing the published evidence available on this topic, BVA and BSAVA agreed there were too many animal welfare risks to not call for a complete ban on the sale or use of these devices.
One of the key issues raised around the use of electric pulse training aids (EPTAs) is the use of pain and aversion to achieve learning outcomes that could be more humanely and effectively achieved through positive reinforcement. It is difficult for owners to judge the level of electric pulse to apply to their dog without causing unnecessary suffering and the widespread availability of EPTAs allows for intentional abuse.
BVA and BSAVA consulted leading veterinary behaviourists who reinforced the view that training dogs using EPTAs is no more effective than positive reinforcement methods. From our perspective, vets would far rather owners use positive reinforcement to teach their dogs commands and good behaviour than risk causing them unnecessary pain or stress.
Ultimately, considering the five welfare needs — particularly that an animal must be protected from pain, suffering, injury and disease — we decided that calling for a ban on EPTAs was the only option that could safeguard dog welfare.
