Will a shock collar hurt a pregnant dog? Navigating training tools for expecting dogs
Last updated on November 23rd, 2024 at 04:05 pm
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Caring for a pregnant dog is definitely an exciting and memorable experience in every household. We even go overboard in terms of buying supplies, toys, and other goods for the fur momma and her puppies.
But sometimes, we encounter instances where our pregnant dog shows signs of unwanted behavior like excessive barking and aggression.
Unfortunately, one of the most common solutions to correct these behaviors is using a shock collar.
- But, is using a shock collar safe for training pregnant dogs?
- Will it cause physical pain to the momma dog and the puppies in her womb?
- Are there safer alternatives to shock collars?
Let’s get to it.
Will a shock collar hurt a pregnant dog?
Yes, a shock collar can inflict physical and emotional harm to your pregnant dog. Shock collars deliver electrical charges to pregnant dogs that can cause serious physical injuries. These injuries may include dry skin and burn skin marks in the neck area. Moreover, the electric shock may also damage the dog’s heart.
Like humans, pregnant female dogs experience hormone changes in their bodies. These changes can lead to discomfort, lack of energy, aggressiveness, and sometimes lack of appetite.
What is a shock collar anyway?
A shock collar is a remote-controlled electronic device that delivers electric current to your dog’s neck. Shock collars are often used to train dogs or prevent them from jumping fences. Some owners even use them to punish their pets.
However, some veterinarians warn against using these devices because they can cause serious health problems. In addition, they can also harm the mother and her unborn puppies.
There are two types of shocks: low voltage (LV) and high voltage (HV). Low voltage shocks deliver a mild jolt, whereas HV shocks deliver a stronger electrical charge. The strength of the shock depends on the animal’s size and weight.
How does a shock collar work?
Electronic collars are training devices commonly used in dog training. A typical shock collar has two main components:
1. The remote control
Common features of the remote control
- may have an LCD screen to help adjust the level of stimulation to the dog
- battery-operated (rechargeable or disposable)
- water resistant
- distance range of the signal can be between 60 -1000 meters or more
2. The collar
Common features of a shock collar
- The collar comes with metallic prongs that touch the dog’s neck
- It receives the signal from the remote control which activates and delivers the electric shock to the dog
A shock collar is operated using a remote control. First, the collar is attached to the dog’s neck. It should not be too loose or too tight. Give your dog a few minutes to get comfortable. And when she’s ready, press the button to turn it on.
Next, using the remote control, adjust the intensity level of the electric shock for the training. When you press the button, the remote control delivers a radio signal to the collar which will activate the metallic prongs, thus producing static electricity in your dog’s neck.
What are shock collars for dogs used for?
A shock collar is a common training device to correct unwanted behavior issues in pets such as:
- excessive barking
- aggressive behavior
- hostile behavior
This electronic device is also used for obedience training and to promote normal behavior.
What does a shock collar feel like?
Ever touched a computer screen and felt a tingling sensation at the tip of your finger?
How about static on your clothes?
These are mild examples of static electricity we encounter on a daily basis. But in terms of using static electricity to train dogs, it may feel a little intense.
In fact, the dog will feel like she is being pricked by needles.
Are shock collars bad for pregnant dogs?
Yes, shock collars are bad for training pregnant dogs. Instead, use alternative training tools and positive reinforcement.
Pregnancy in dogs can be stressful and exciting to both the dog and its owner. And because of her delicate situation, it’s not ideal to impose negative reinforcement just because she’s showing signs of bad behavior.
If your pregnant female dog is not handling her situation well, it’s best to consult the vet for advice. She may need extra medications to ease the discomfort brought on by her pregnancy.
As a pet owner, you can spend time with her with calm, non-strenuous exercise or light playtime.
Or you can bring her shopping for items for her unborn puppies.
What can I use instead of a shock collar on a pregnant dog?
Here are safe alternatives to shock collars in training pregnant dogs.
1. Clicker
Clicker training is one of the most common positive reinforcement training for dogs. Basically, you help the dog understand and master commands associated with the click. In exchange for her obedience, you will reward her with treats.
We love the Oyefly Dog Training Clicker. With a push of the button, this clicker can produce a clicking sound that grabs your dog’s attention. It’s lightweight and comes with a wristband that fits comfortably in your hand. You can also attach it to your dog’s leash on your pants.
2. Dog whistles
Using a dog whistle shares the same concept as clicker training. You help your dog understand commands with a whistle, in exchange for treats.
We love the Puspoch Pet 2Pack Dog Whistle. This dog whistle is made of stainless steel that produces ultrasound frequencies. This ultrasound frequency allows dogs to get your attention without damaging their hearing or other health problems.
3. Citronella collars
If your pregnant dog is barking excessively, citronella collars may help. This type of dog collar releases a light mist of citronella fragrance every time it senses barking.
We love the Citronella dog collar with remote by Pollopy This Citronella dog collar is non-toxic, safe, and effective. It contains a rechargeable battery that helps emit a burst of citronella with one push of a button. The collar is lightweight and fits comfortably to your dog’s neck. Its waterproof design is perfect during the wet season. But remove it when your dog is swimming or playing with water.
4. Outdoor non-electric fences
Often dog owners are scared that their pregnant dogs would run away. As a safety precaution, non-electric fences can be installed in your front or back yard. It will help your dog understand the importance of boundaries. At the same time, give you and your neighbors peace of mind.
We love the Amazon Basics Foldable Metal Exercise Pet Play Pen for Dogs. From extra small to large, this outdoor fence is perfect for any dog size. It can be easily set up, unfolded, and shaped, using connected panels and thumb clips to hold it together.
5. Prong collar
A prong collar or pinch collar is used to teach dogs to walk on a leash without pulling. It is made up of a series of chains intertwined with open ends facing the dog’s neck.
We love the Herm Sprenger Prong Dog Training Collar. This prong collar is made in Germany. It is made up of chrome-plated steel with a swivel ring, that fits nicely just below your dog’s ears. The links are adjustable so it can apply even pressure to your dog’s neck.
6. Ultrasonic dog training tool
Instead of electric shock, this training tool uses high-frequency ultrasonic sounds to distract a dog from doing bad behaviors. This is also a handheld device. Therefore, it doesn’t require a collar or anything wearable that may feel uncomfortable or physically harm your dog.
7. Vibrating collars
This type of collar uses vibration, not electric shock, to get your dog’s attention. Vibrating collars can be useful to train a deaf dog who can’t hear your voice or a clicker.
Final thoughts
If your dog is showing signs of unwanted behavior during pregnancy, using a shock collar as a way to discipline her is NOT recommended. Shock collars may result in mild to serious physical injuries to your pet.
Furthermore, shock collars may inflict fear and anxiety on your dog, which may affect her health situation, physically and emotionally.
Besides, the use of a shock collar in pregnant dogs is not the only training method to eliminate aggressive behavior.
Before doing anything, consult your vet first. Your pregnant dog may be experiencing discomfort because of her situation, thus the noticeable change in behavior.
If you’re certain that she’s in good health, ask for help from an animal behaviorist. He/she will guide you with easy-to-follow obedience training, and proper handling of safe training tools, and training devices.
References
- Which type of dog collar is best for your dog?
- Non-Stimulation Communication : Tone vs. Vibration
- Do shock collars hurt? It’s the amps not the volts
- Do Electronic Dog Training Collars Work?
- Should you put a shock collar on a pregnant dog?
- Shock collar on a newly pregnant dog, good or bad?
- Elec collar during pregnancy?
- E-collar on a pregnant female?
