Abstract

The use of electronic collars in dog training is a controversial topic amongst those interested in dog training and welfare. This study set out to inform this debate by providing an objective, critical examination of the scientific literature and undertaking a detailed investigation into the efficacy and the welfare effects of electronic collars in training, compared to alternative training techniques. Two Critically Appraised Topics (CATs) were constructed, each using a set of pre-defined criteria, to explore the comparative efficacy and welfare effects of electronic collars in dog training. These revealed that the use of electronic collars can be successful in training but found no evidence to indicate that they are better than alternative training techniques and some evidence that they may be detrimental to dog welfare. The critical appraisals highlighted limitations in research methodologies especially the lack of randomised controlled studies as evidence. To gain improved insight into the relative efficacy and effect on welfare of electronic collars, enhanced data examination techniques were used on pre-existing training videos from the highest quality study identified in the CATS above. Training groups were examined comprising: electronic collar use (A); training by the same individuals without electronic collars (B); and reward-based training focused techniques (C). These were compared for their: response to “come” and “sit” commands; latency to respond to these commands; and, several behavioural responses observed during training sessions indicative of stress. The results of these video examinations demonstrated that the use of electronic collars is a successful training technique. Yet, these devices are not superior to the other training techniques examined. However, the use of reward-based training leads to significantly fewer behavioural indicators of stress relative to the other two scenarios examined. These results suggest there are increased risks without measurable benefit with the use of electronic training collars. Furthermore, the use of electronic collar training and the other aversively led training methods even without electronic collars are also a concern and indicate a need for closer examination of a wider range of training methods.