Difference Between an E-Collar and a Shock Collar
An e-collar and shock collar are both remote controlled training collars. The main difference between an e-collar and shock collar are the different uses of electricity. The e-collar uses electronic stimulation where as shock collars use an electronic shock.
E-collars are the most technologically advanced dog training tool on the market. The e-collar uses Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Simulation (TENS) opposed to an actual shock. TENS create a buzz, tingle or muscle contraction similar to the muscle treatment used in physical therapy. E-collars stimulate nerves and sensory receptors through vibrations.
E-collars are a modern training tool that can be used for any dog. E-collars are great for behavior modification but also great for solidifying commands and giving dogs a controlled off-leash freedom.
Both the e-collar and shock collar provide discomfort and are used as a negative reinforcement. The e-collar doesn’t cause pain where as the shock collar does. The purpose is to instantaneously communicate to your dog that there are negative consequences when they don’t obey you. There is a higher success rate when you can narrow down the time frame of correction. Letting your dog know immediately when they mess up, opposed to a few seconds after…they may not associate the correction with the behavior otherwise.
Buying the right e-collar is important. You pay for the quality you get. One of the best e-collars on the market is by E-Collar Technologies called the Mini Educator. This collar and remote costs $180 and has the option to pair two collars to one remote. It is waterproof and has a half mile range. There is a wide range of stimulation levels (1 to 100) which gives you lots of flexibility with intensity when correcting your dog. Every dog has a different starting level which is the level of stimulating that the dog starts to feel it.
The e-collar provides a higher success rate. Like any sort of training with your dog, consistency is key. Just because you bought an e-collar for your dog, doesn’t mean they will miraculously be obedient. It takes time to teach your dog the commands you desire them to know as well as a consistent routine of training with the e-collar. The e-collar can really be life changing when you invest the time to train with your dog.
An e-collar or shock collar should never be left on a dog’s neck when you are not around. Training is required upon receiving an e-collar.
