Four BIG LIES About Shock Collars

Shock collars, also called e-collars, are marketed as quick-fix training tools. Some trainers swear by them, claiming they’re harmless and even humane. But the truth? These devices rely on pain or discomfort to get results. Let’s break down the four biggest lies trainers tell about shock collars—and why you should think twice before using one.

Lie #1: “It Doesn’t Hurt.”

One of the most common claims is that shock collars don’t actually hurt—they just get the dog’s attention. But let’s be honest: If it didn’t hurt or cause discomfort, it wouldn’t work. The whole purpose of a shock collar is to create a negative experience when a dog does something undesirable.

If you’ve ever touched an electric fence or gotten a jolt from static electricity, you know even small shocks can be startling or painful. Now imagine feeling that on your neck without knowing when it’s coming. Dogs may yelp, flinch, or become fearful when shocked—clear signs of distress. If trainers insist it doesn’t hurt, ask them to wear one on their neck at the highest setting. Most won’t.

Lie #2: “It’s Humane.”

Shock collars are often described as a “humane” way to train, but how can a device that causes pain be humane? True humane training focuses on teaching dogs what to do instead of punishing them for mistakes.

Scientific studies have linked shock collar use to increased stress, fear, and even aggression in dogs. Instead of building trust and communication, these devices create anxiety and uncertainty. A dog trained with a shock collar may obey, but not because they understand what’s expected—rather, they’re afraid of making a mistake.

Lie #3: “It’s Just a Little Shock.”

Some trainers downplay the intensity, calling it a “tickle” or “tap.” But the reality is that many shock collars can be adjusted from mild to extreme levels, and the strength of the shock can vary depending on the dog’s size, coat thickness, and skin sensitivity.

Even on low settings, the sensation is enough to make a dog uncomfortable or fearful. Some dogs become so stressed that they shut down completely, which some trainers mistakenly see as “calmness” when it’s actually learned helplessness—a state where the dog is too afraid to react at all.

Lie #4: “It’s Just Like a Tap on the Shoulder.”

Another common comparison is that a shock collar is similar to tapping someone on the shoulder to get their attention. But let’s be clear: A tap is physical contact meant to gently alert someone. A shock is an electric current designed to interrupt behavior through discomfort or pain.

If a shock collar was truly just a tap, it wouldn’t make dogs yelp, flinch, or panic. Some dogs even associate the shock with things in their environment, leading to unintended fears—like becoming scared of the yard, strangers, or even their owner’s presence.

A Better Way to Train

Dogs don’t need pain or fear to learn. They thrive with positive reinforcement—rewarding good behavior rather than punishing mistakes. Science-backed training methods focus on clear communication, consistency, and building a bond of trust.

If you want a well-behaved dog without the risk of fear or stress, skip the shock collar and choose humane, effective training instead. Your dog will thank you.

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