for those who think of humane issues.
i have used quaility E collars for over 15 years in training for K-9 and hunting retrievers as well as OB work of other types of breeds.
2 things come into play regarding E collars:
1- the level of stimulus is realitively light..
most dogs get the necessary correction with only 1-5, maybe a 6 on a scale of 20 on the collar.
2- the secret of the E collar is that the dog punishes itself.
the dog doesnt realize that its the owner pushing the button.
i have used the ecollar on myself..and it wasnt like a 10,000 volt stun gun..
a wierd..zap...really a twitch..on low levels.
i have never seen a dog that has any damage from the use of a shock collar...
do not be swayed by dogs that yelp when zapped every now and then. dogs bark and yelp every now and then from being surprised.
dogs are master thespians...who know exactly how to get mercy from the handlers/owners.
they do like the attention and pity party...they get...
for training other than just using the NO Bark collars..
there are several quality books out there.
dobbs, Tritronics..come to mind.
of course, any area retriever club will have several individuals who are capable of helping. even if just for OB work.
almost all K-9, service and retrievers are trained with the help of these collars now..atleast some portion of training.
these tools will cut your time, money and stress without a doubt.
I LOATHE it when i hear people tell me i'm inhumane for using shock collars and prong collars on dogs.
WHAT BULLSHIT.....
of course...
it usually comes from people who have ever seen me work a dog..
on the otherhand...
most people are in AWE of what the dogs i train can do....
the most common words are usually " i wish my dog could do that....."
hell, i personally recommend them for all women.....strapped to the leg...or hell the neck for some.
wife..."did you get the garage cleaned up today"
me...."no, i didnt...."
wife..."i thought you said..."
me...thumb on DT transmitter, level 3 set for momentary.."click"...
wife...silence....."..............."