To shock or not to shock - that is the question!

Why I Will Never Use Aversive Tools in Dog Training

As a professional dog trainer, I am often asked why I choose to avoid using aversive tools such as shock collars, prong collars, choke chains, and grot collars in my training methods. For me, the answer is simple: these tools rely on fear, discomfort, and pain, which contradicts everything I believe in when it comes to building a trusting, respectful relationship between humans and dogs. I want to take this opportunity to explain my stance and share why I am committed to using only reward-based, positive reinforcement techniques.

1. The Science Behind Dog Training

Research has consistently shown that dogs learn best through positive reinforcement, where desirable behaviours are rewarded, and unwanted behaviours are prevented or redirected. Aversive methods, on the other hand, are based on punishment, which suppresses behaviour but doesn’t teach the dog what to do instead.

For example, using a shock collar may stop a dog from barking temporarily, but it doesn’t address why the dog is barking in the first place. The dog could be anxious, bored, or scared. By using punishment, we fail to meet the dog's needs and miss the opportunity to teach them a better way to cope with their environment. One of the most commonly justified uses for shock collars is in stock aversion training. In the UK dogs should NEVER be off lead with stock - however safe they may or may not be - a farmer is within their rights to shoot your dog if they suspect they are worrying their stock. Dogs should be on lead around stock and they can absolutely be trained, and indeed should be trained to be neutral to stock if they are nearby.

2. The Risk of Emotional Harm

Aversive tools don’t just affect a dog’s behaviour; they can cause long-lasting emotional harm. A dog trained with fear-based methods may become anxious, stressed, or even aggressive. They may start to associate their owner, the environment, or other animals with the fear they experience when these tools are used. For example, a prong collar can cause pain whenever the dog pulls on the lead, potentially making them fearful of walks, other dogs, or even you, their handler.

In contrast, positive reinforcement methods build confidence. A dog learns to make choices, understands the consequences of those choices, and becomes more resilient in new situations.

3. Damaging the Human-Animal Bond

One of the greatest joys of working with dogs is the bond we develop with them. When we train with kindness and understanding, that bond strengthens. However, when training relies on aversive methods, the relationship can be damaged. Imagine how it feels to your dog if they are shocked or choked for doing something wrong, without understanding what behaviour you’re asking of them.

Dogs are sensitive beings. They look to us for guidance and trust us to provide safety and security. When we use fear-based training tools, we risk breaking that trust. On the other hand, by using positive reinforcement, we build a relationship based on mutual respect and communication.

4. Aversive Tools Are Not Necessary

There is a common misconception that some dogs are “too stubborn” or “too aggressive” to be trained without the use of aversive tools. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Every dog, regardless of breed or behavioural challenges, can be trained using humane, force-free methods. It may take time and patience, but I firmly believe that there is no behavioural problem that justifies the use of pain or fear.

If a dog is struggling with a particular behaviour, such as pulling on the lead or reacting to other dogs, it simply means we need to find the right reward, the right timing, and the right training method. For example, using reward-based techniques like clicker training can help dogs focus and learn in a positive way, without any need for discomfort or pain.

Another situation where aversive tools should never be needed is in sport. Competing in dog sports is the pinacle of teamwork and respect between dog and handler should be a priority. Quick fixes and the use of punishment tools are just not acceptable in the pursuit of ribbons.

5. The Legal and Ethical Landscape

Around the world, many countries have recognised the harm caused by aversive tools and have moved to ban them. Shock collars, for example, are already banned in Wales and the rest of the United Kingdom are hopefully taking steps to restrict their use. These legislative changes reflect a growing understanding of the ethical issues involved in using such tools.

As trainers, we have a responsibility to keep our dogs safe, both physically and emotionally. Using tools designed to cause discomfort or pain is not only unnecessary but unethical. With the knowledge and tools we now have in the field of canine behaviour science, there is simply no excuse for causing harm to the animals we care for.

Conclusion: A Commitment to Positive Training

At Chrysalis K9, I will never use aversive tools in my training methods. I am committed to using reward-based, humane techniques that build trust, confidence, and joy in both dogs and their owners. My goal is to help you and your dog develop a partnership based on mutual understanding, not fear or punishment.

Dogs are our companions, and they deserve to be treated with kindness. When we use positive reinforcement, we show our dogs that learning is fun, and we set them up for success. That’s the kind of training I believe in – and that’s why I will never use aversive tools.