Input Needed - Yes or No to using an e-collar to train

[texashunter]

I would like your input on this question. I have a new lab puppy and I am training her to hunt. I have trained a dog before to hunt, and he did a good job for me. I didn't train him for trials or anything like that, only to hunt, he was a meat dog. When I trained him 6 years ago, I pretty much used the Gun Dog book and a few articles I found online.
I have never used an e collar to train a dog, from researching online, it seems that most trainers advocate the use of the ecollar. I also know I will have to buy some training videos as well.
That being said, would it make training easier by using the collar, or just go without it? Is there an advantage to using one?
I appreciate everyone's advice, thanks.

[Lungbustr]

The obvious advantage is enforcing commands at distance. They are great. You just need to learn how to use it properly and how to train a dog with an ecollar.

Do some research into some different training programs that incorporate the use of an ecollar.

[dustoffer]

Just wish I could get one for a 6-lb yapper--

[Axis FMJ]

I use one with my lab. Works great.

[the-butcher]

I use one for everyday corrections. He is a different dog with his collar on. 99% of the time i correct with the beep

Sent from my SM-G950U using Tapatalk

[bboswell]

There is no better way to reinforce a command instantly from distance but that only works if the fog already understands the command.

[Artos]

One suggestion that worked well for me was using the collar without ever turning it on when first introduced...anytime I would take the pup out to play, for a ride, anything fun / no pressure or training, I would put on the e-collar. Pup soon realized the e-collar coming on meant good stuff.

Also important to not let that first zap be a high setting...start off on the lowest with a sound warning in advance if you can.

It's a wonderful tool if used correctly.

[Texantax]

Plenty of videos on YouTube. I have been watching a lot and would try that before buying any.

[cashcropper]

The ecollar is a great tool but can be misused easily. The only time a dog should get a correction is when he disobeys a command he knows meaning he knows why the correction came. If not he will be confused and probably get skittish.

[bloodtrailer28]

E collars work great! I would not use it to train though only to reinforce commands they already know. There are a ton of vids on introducing the shock collar and I would watch them before turning it on and going to town zapping him. E collar is one of the best investments I made for my dog. Works wonders.

[Pushbutton2]

I used one on my three dogs. one took of running when I go the box out. I just strapped it on her and mashed buttons. other 2 id get he box out they'd come running.
I only ever had there's on them when training. even as puppies doing basic obedience. it was never on until I had them properly collar conditioned. My buddy has one of my puppies, he's 9 now, he'll get the collar and bring it him cause he knows he gets to retrieve. buddy thought it was cute at first, it soon lost its appeal. dog would bring it to him every time he wanted to "play". dog didn't like sharing "his" collar with other dogs.....
I'm all for it provided you train yourself first. I screwed one dog up by doing it the wrong way. I'm just glad she didn't run from all collars. Just
the E-Collar

[texashunter]

Appreciate everyone's input, I will definitely watch the dvd's and video's before putting the collar on the dog.Thats my concern, using the collar in the wrong way.

[Artos]

Appreciate everyone's input, I will definitely watch the dvd's and video's before putting the collar on the dog.Thats my concern, using the collar in the wrong way.

Again, do not be afraid to put the collar on right away, just don't turn it on & have fun with your dog...my dog goes into a fit of joy if he even sees the collar. Associating it with good time will make the introduction an easy transition for you.