Pet Care
Sometimes, rewards aren’t enough. Here’s how we use e-collars to set fair boundaries.
Ever wonder how to deal with these “what if I don’t want to?” moments? This is my answer.
In my last article, we discussed using the vibrating feature of an e-collar as a reward tool—a way to grab your dog’s attention and say, “Hey, here! Something good is happening to me.
Today, let’s take it a step further and talk about those times when your dog is less easily swayed by treats and toys. We all know those times: maybe they smell something interesting, spot another dog or person, or just decide, “No, I’m going to go this way.” It’s in these moments that an e-collar’s The static correction or “shock” function functions as a boundary setting tool.
Building trust first
Here’s the thing: I never use static correction until I’m sure the dog fully understands the game. I’ve used vibrations, rewards, and guidance countless times to show them how to “win” in various scenarios. When we introduced static correction, the dog already knew exactly what I wanted. They know that following my lead will pay off.
The dog already enjoyed working with me and was motivated enough to continue participating. But as we all know, even the best dogs have times when they try to push their limits.
“What if I don’t want to?” moment
Eventually, every dog reaches a point where: “What if I don’t want to? What if I want to see that smell or say hello to that dog over there?
This is a crucial moment in their training – when they try to “opt out” of the game. At this point, they no longer say “I don’t understand.” they said, “I understand, but I choose not to listen.”
This is where the static correction of an e-collar comes into play, but only if they have had countless chances to win and understand the game.
How we use static correction
When a dog chooses to ignore me despite knowing the rules, I start by using vibration as a reminder. But if they continue to ignore it, I will make a static correction. This correction is not meant to scare people; It sets a boundary that following my lead is not an option. Think of it like a “tap on the shoulder” that means “Hey, you can’t ignore me now.”
Here’s the surprise: Because we’ve already established this trust, it usually only takes one or two corrections to get them to understand. They quickly learned they had two options:
-
Opt in Join me for food, games, and compliments.
-
opt out and eventually reaches the end of the constraint, which may subsequently be revised.
It’s a clear, fair choice, and because they already know that working with me is fun and rewarding, they almost always choose to stay involved. Corrections simply remind them that opting out is not as fun as staying in touch.
Why this method works so well
Dogs are very smart. When we correct in this way, based on trust, reward, and clear communication, they quickly understand what we are asking of them.
If done properly, corrections are rarely needed. They find that life becomes more enjoyable and simpler when they follow your lead.
ultimate goal
Our goal is to build a relationship where they choose to follow you. With our trainers by your side, you’ll soon have a trustworthy dog that can bond with you in any environment.
“Free Dog Training Tips and Tricks of the Week”
