Sometimes, rewards aren’t enough. Here’s how we use the e-collar to set fair boundaries.
Ever wonder how to handle those ‘What if I don’t want to?’ moments? Here’s my answer.
In my last post, we talked about using the e-collar’s vibrate function as a tool for rewards—a way to grab your dog’s attention and say, “Hey, over here! Good things are happening with me.”
Today, let’s take it a step further and talk about those moments when your dog isn’t so easily swayed by treats and toys. We all know those times: maybe they’ve caught the scent of something interesting, spotted another dog or person, or simply decided, “Nah, I’m going this way.” It’s these moments when the e-collar’s static correction, or “shock” function, comes into play, as a boundary-setting tool.
Building Trust First
Here’s the thing: I never use the static correction until I’m confident the dog fully understands the game. I spend countless repetitions using vibrate, rewards, and guidance to show them how to “win” in all sorts of scenarios. By the time we introduce the static correction, the dog already knows exactly what I want. They know that following my lead brings rewards.
The dog already loves working with me, and there’s plenty of motivation to stay engaged. But as we all know, even the best dogs have moments when they’re tempted to test the limits.
The “What If I Don’t Want To?” Moment
Eventually, every dog reaches a point where they think, “What if I don’t want to? What if I’d rather go check out that smell or say hi to that dog over there?”
This is a crucial moment in their training—the point where they try to “opt out” of the game. At this point, they’re no longer saying, “I don’t understand.” They’re saying, “I understand, but I’m choosing not to listen.”
This is where the e-collar’s static correction comes in, but only after they’ve had countless chances to win and understand the game.
How We Use Static Correction
When a dog chooses to ignore me despite knowing the rules, I’ll first use the vibrate as a reminder. But if they continue to ignore it, I’ll follow up with a static correction. This correction isn’t meant to scare; it’s setting the boundary that following my lead isn’t optional. Think of it like a “tap on the shoulder” that says, “Hey, you can’t ignore me right now.”
And here’s what’s amazing: because we’ve built that trust, it usually only takes one or two corrections before they understand. They quickly learn that they have two choices:
Opt in and enjoy treats, games, and praise with me.
Opt out and end up at the end of the leash where a correction might follow.
It’s a clear, fair choice, and because they already know that working with me is fun and rewarding, they almost always choose to stay engaged. The correction simply reminds them that opting out isn’t as fun as staying connected.
Why This Works So Well
Dogs are smart. When we use corrections this way—with a foundation of trust, rewards, and clear communication—they quickly learn what we’re asking of them.
Done properly, the need for corrections are rare. They see that life is more enjoyable and less complicated when they follow your lead.
The Ultimate Goal
Our goal is to build a relationship where they willingly choose to follow you. With one of our trainers at your side, you’ll soon have a dog you can trust to stay engaged with you in any environment.
