We Asked - You Answered!

"Do you think prong and shock collars have a place in today's dog training, or are effective tools for pit bull-type dogs?"



Shana Markwis

 Prong and shock collars are a controversial topic in the animal world, as the interpretation among strangers, bystanders and family can vary. At a glance, your dog might be considered dangerous, out of control or possibly even a victim of animal abuse or dog fighting. Are the double-take stares and whispers as you pass by worth these intense and harsh-looking collars?

It is common knowledge that positive reinforcement is the best tool to modify behavior in animals. Dogs, especially pitbulls, are people pleasers that want to be encouraged, therefore positive interactions are key. However, in a situation where your dog has left you exhausting all known techniques, prong and shock collars may be useful when used correctly. They are a tool, and dependent upon the user, can be helpful or abusive. Fully understanding the tool you are about to impart on your dog is essential. Put that shock collar around your neck. Are you scared? Then maybe this isn't the tool for you or your dog. Put the prong collar around your neck and let a family member lead you around, giving you corrections as they feel necessary. Angry yet? It is insensitive to think that you can use a tool on your dog, that can be downright dangerous if used incorrectly, without knowing exactly how it feels. You better know how Shock Level 1 feels, and before you press Shock Level 5 on Fido, you better know how that feels, too. Prong and shock collars have a badrap, but let's be honest, how did that reputation get there? Through bias media, the uneducated public and irresponsible owners. Sound like any other reputations we know of?