by Deborah Miller-Gurchak

Created on: June 17, 2010   Last Updated: June 18, 2010

Just the name itself should give concern to what you are about to do to a dog.  As a dog trainer that has prided myself with gentle training methods using behavior modification, management and obedience.  I have had great results in the performance world competing in agility, conformation, herding, obedience,rally obedience and doing commercials.  I am thrilled to say I have never turned to using the shock treatment training.  I have noticed many dogs have behavior issues after this training starts.

To understand this method used in containing a dog to its property you first must understand how a dog may think.  I have found that the dog may start to dislike what it was looking  directly before the shock has been felt.  Before you know it you can have a dog that is becoming aggressive to anything or anyone coming into your property or walking by.  I have also had to work with the puppies/dogs that aren't housebroken...a few shocks outside can make a dog feel going to the bathroom is safer inside.

I have noticed the newest cruel trend is the useof these systems in the home...making me wonder where in the environment is it safe.  I feel many people don't want to put the time into training their dogs...quick fixes have become the trend of training.  I prefer a fixed fence or property training..but wow...how about a leash!  I do understand that some communities do not allow a visual fence...how sad for the dog.  I also understand it can be a good deal less money to use the electric shock method.  I would like to have someone educated in the health field(heart) openly discuss the affect of shock training  on the dog.  I would be clarifying with my vet that my dog had no heart problems before I would consider this form of training.

Be aware that if the dog gets shocked and leaves the property it will not have the same drive to come back home..ex..running after a deer or rabbit.  The stim to leave will not equal the stim to go home.  Consider all of the information before you make your decision.  The statistic I hear quoted for these fences working doesn't seem to match the issues we hear and see from our clients. 

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