The Best Shock Collars for Dog Training
Our Review Process
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Our Picks For The Top Shock Collars
- 1. Bousnic Long-Lasting Nylon Dog Shock Collar
- 2. INVIROX Professional Communicative Shock Collar
- 3. MAISOIE Metal Probes Safety Lock Shock Collar
- 4. Yawpet All-Breed Fast Charging Shock Collar
- 5. Pet Resolve Long-Haired Dog Teaching Shock Collar
- 6. Vsezund Buckle Adjustable Dog Shock Collar
- 7. PATPET Vibration Long-Lasting Shock Collar
- 8. Pet Spy Behavioral Swimming Shock Collar
- 9. PetSafe Adjustable Boost Button Shock Collar
- 10. Petrainer Rainproof Wireless Shock Collar
- 11. SportDOG Submersible Buckle Shock Collar
- 12. DOG CARE Rechargeable Static Mode Shock Collar
Since this shock collar is waterproof, your pup can spend time in the family pool without issue. The collar is adjustable and comes with a remote that works at distances of up to 1,000 feet. You can even get the set in gray and pink or gray and black.
Supports Two PupsThis shock collar is best for dogs who weigh between 8 and 120 pounds.
Designed for use with medium-sized dogs, this shock collar does an excellent job of keeping your pet on your property. It features three levels of control and comes with a handy remote. Unlike other models that only have a 1,000-foot reach, this model covers a full 3,350-foot range.
Choice of ColorsWith this shock collar, you'll be able to choose between black, gray or green.
This shock collar is adjustable and can be used on dogs of just about any size. It has a long 1,300 foot range and features three different training modes: beep, vibration and shock. For added safety, the collar is waterproof and the remote has a locking mechanism.
Economical PickThanks to the budget-friendly price on this shock collar, you'll be able to train your pup for less.
Unlike other shock collars that only offer three training modes, this model has been upgraded to provide four. They include beep, vibrate, safe shock and boost shock. Since the collar is adjustable, you can use this set on any dog that weighs between 8 and 110 pounds.
Most VersatileThis shock collar features a safety lock to prevent accidents that may lead to an injury.
Buying Guide
No matter whether you adopt an older rescue pup from the local shelter or bring home a brand new puppy, every new four-legged friend will need some training. Depending on the breed, training may be a breeze or an uphill battle. And, that training may take years.
Some dogs are notoriously stubborn and even the tastiest of treats won’t be enough to convince them to follow basic commands. Sit, down, stay and come aren’t just cute tricks. They are vital to your dog’s wellbeing and your own sanity. Training and nurturing an obedient dog can help keep your dog healthy and safe throughout its life.
When all else fails in training and dogs simply won’t listen, exasperated owners will turn to a shock collar, also known as e-collars or collar mounted electronic training aids. The shock collar attaches around the dog’s neck like a regular collar. It has two prongs that emit the vibration and shock directly into the dog’s sensitive neck. The owner can control the level of vibration and timing via a remote.
Shock training is polarizing. It can be a very divisive topic within the dog community. While proponents swear by its efficacy, others can’t stand it. They consider the shocks to be cruel and abusive.
At its most basic, a shock collar is a mode of operant conditioning. This is a fancy psychology term for a learning process. It relies on rewards and punishments to teach a new skill and eliminate unwanted behaviors. When done properly, the trainee, in this case your dog, makes an association between a particular behavior and a consequence, the collar’s jolt.
Shock collars do emit a noticeable jolt, which is what many opponents take issue with. They worry that the jolt is painful and causes undue anxiety in the dog that could be counterproductive to any training.
However, the shock collars on the market now have a wide range of settings. They begin at barely perceptible vibrations and escalate in incremental bits to higher and higher voltages. You can place the collar on your own wrist to feel the sensation for yourself before placing it on your dog if you’re concerned. Plus, you’re able to fine-tune to the perfect level to grab their attention. Then, they stop the unwanted behavior and tune in to you and your command.
There are several important factors to consider when selecting a shock collar for your dog. First, you want to ensure it will fit properly around your dog’s neck. Most models have adjustable straps that can fit a range of sizes. They will include measurements so you’ll know if a specific collar will work for your dog.
Shock collars also have a range of shock settings. Most have three distinct settings: sound, vibration and shock. You can slowly escalate from sound through vibration levels and shock as needed to get your dog’s attention.
How much the unit on the collar weighs also matters. For smaller dogs, the units can be bulky, weigh your dog down and even impede their movement. If they’re uncomfortable to start off, they won’t be as willing as trainees.
Still, other more advanced models allow for customized settings and multiple modes. This allows you as the dog owner to essentially switch between two different collars with one remote control. You can also be confident that the shock level is set properly for each pooch.
All the shock collars run on batteries, so you’ll want a model with decent battery life. The last thing you need is a runaway pup and no juice left to alert them back to reality.
The biggest benefit of shock collars is their value. Compared to the cost of a professional trainer or behaviorist, a shock collar is a budget buy with a big return.
What to Look For
- Pay attention to the size of the collars. Most can be trimmed or adjusted to custom fit your dog’s neck within a certain measurement range.
- Consider how many dogs you will want to train simultaneously. Some transmitters can control multiple shock collars on up to three dogs.
- While you can test the jolt level on yourself, do not place them around your neck and shock yourself or your friends. This is dangerous.
- When you first start using a shock collar, you want to begin at low levels of vibration and stimulation and work your way up to learn the best setting for alerting and training your dog without causing anxiety or discomfort.
- Read directions and warnings carefully, because the shock collars do have powerful shock settings at the higher levels and using them incorrectly can be counterproductive in training and changing your dog’s behavior.
This review has been updated by DWYM staff.
More to Explore
The shock collar training method dates back to the late 1960s. They were first utilized to train hunting dogs.
Since then, they’ve been embraced for a wide variety of dog breeds and general training. They are a common part of modern obedience training. Shock collars also help with training service dogs, including animals in police departments or the military.
The high-end collars come with advanced safety features built-in. Some have GPS to help owners track down a pet. Others include lights and sounds, which are especially useful for hunters keeping track of their dogs.
In spite of research and a growing history of efficacy, shock collars remain a polarizing training method in the dog community.