According to a recent study by University of Lincoln researchers in the UK, the use of 'shock collars' may cause greater welfare concerns than positive results when compared to reward-based training.

Electronic training collars, also known as e-collars or shock collars, are a somewhat controversial training tool for dogs. There are strong arguments for and against the use of these collars, but very few studies have examined the consequences of these tools on the welfare and performance of dogs.

This recent study follows a preliminary study wherein a small sample group of dogs was studied. The dogs were referred to training primarily because they were chasing sheep. The results of the study showed changes in their behavior that were consistent with aversion or pain. However, the researchers noted that the trainers did not follow collar manufacturers' guidelines on training. They recommended a larger study that involves industry-approved trainers and training procedures to determine the effective use of training collars in order to improve dog obedience without affecting welfare.

The study involved 63 referred dogs that were indicated as having poor recall and other related problems. The dogs were divided into three groups, with two groups as control and one group given e-collars. Although the e-collars were set at lower settings and the behavioral responses were marked less than during preliminary phase. The e-collar-trained dogs showed more negative behavioral changes, signs of tension, and yawning when they engaged in environmental interaction.

Most of the owners reported improved behavior, but the owners of the e-collar-trained dogs were not as confident about using the demonstrated training approach. This indicates a lack of consistent benefits from e-collar training and greater welfare concerns.

Jonathan Cooper, Professor of Animal Behavior and Welfare at the University of Lincoln's School of Life Sciences and lead author of this study, said, “E-collar training did not result in a substantially superior response to training in comparison to similarly experienced trainers who do not use e-collars to improve recall and control chasing behavior. Accordingly, it seems that the routine use of e-collars even in accordance with best practice, as suggested by collar manufacturers, presents a risk to the well-being of pet dogs. The scale of this risk would be expected to be increased when practice falls outside of this ideal.”