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From: jak@whuxlm.UUCP (Keegan Joan)
Newsgroups: net.pets
Subject: Re: Electronic Dog Training collars
Message-ID: <809@whuxlm.UUCP>
Date: Fri, 16-Aug-85 08:27:58 EDT
Article-I.D.: whuxlm.809
Posted: Fri Aug 16 08:27:58 1985
Date-Received: Mon, 19-Aug-85 08:26:46 EDT
References: <6559@ucla-cs.ARPA>
Organization: AT&T Bell Laboratories, Whippany
Lines: 38

> I am still very interested in any information I can get
> about these collars that can be used for training.  
> They have a remote control box and deliver a mild
> shock when your dog doesnt come off-leash (after you
> press the button).  I received no responses on my first 
> posting.
> 

I do not have first-hand experience with these collars.  I have been trying
for the past few years to put a CD title on my dog (a willful but
intelligent Airedale Terrier).  I have taken both group and private
lessons.  His problem is that he will not stay (1 or 3 minutes, as required,
in group sit/down exercises).  He likes to "visit" his neighbors.  It was
suggested to me that I use an electric collar to get him to stay.  At this
point I began to seriously think about WHO this degree was for, and how far I
was willing to go to get it.  The CD title does not mean enough to me to
inflict pain (however minor) on my dog.  I am not working him right now;
maybe he will calm down as he gets older, and we'll try again.
I can't tell you what to do; I'm only offering my feelings on this topic.
I also have heard that these collars are not cheap.  If there are obedience
training clubs in your area, give them a call; maybe you can borrow one.

If you just need help on the recall ("come"), I would suggest two things:
try getting a long line (15'-30'), and, as you call him, tug on the line.
If the line is light enough, he probably won't even know it's there, and will
feel he is offlead.  Of course, tons of praise whenever he comes in will
help!  The other thing I would suggest (a controversial
topic in obedience training) is using food.  This worked for me when negative
reinforcement failed.  Of course, you can't use food in competition, but
by then the behavior should be engrained.

I'd be interested in discussions about training methods, and any suggestions
someone might have on how to get MY dog to STAY (he's fine at home, it's
only when he's lined up with other dogs!)

Joan Keegan
AT&T-Bell Labs
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