Below are the results of the on-line poll of IPDTA voting members, regarding the use of citronella training products,

completed on June 24, 2006.

Negative Reinforcement – removing something unpleasant to increase the likelihood that a behaviour will be repeated. (avoidance conditioning) ie: ending the spray when the dog stops barking to increase the likelihood that it will remain quiet.

Use of Tool: Aversive

Definition – Aversive – Anything perceived by the dog as unpleasant.

Proper Application: This study is based on the “Multivet” line of products including Aboistop© Anti-Bark Spray Collar, Virtual Fence©, Spray Barrier™ , Spray Commander© and Ssscat© Kits.

Aboistop© Anti-Bark Spray Collar R2

The Aboistop© Kit contains a collar, a “plastic casing that holds a reservoir of citronella” R3, a 6-volt alkaline battery and a refill of spray. The “casing that holds a reservoir of citronella” R3 “houses a micro-circuit and microphone”. R3 The reservoir is injected with citronella spray, a battery is inserted, the casing is then fixed onto the collar. The collar is secured around the dog's neck under the dog's chin, with the spray nozzle facing up, or facing the ground below the dog, depending on how the collar is positioned. The dog's bark is detected by the microphone, which releases a pressurized burst of spray under the dog's chin, in front of its snout, under its chin, or onto the ground below the dog, depending on the size and shape of the dog's head, as well as how the collar is positioned. The spray serves as an “interrupter” to the dog to stop it from barking. At this point the handler has the option of re-directing the dog and reinforcing a desired behaviour. If the handler gives a command such as “shush” at the same time the collar is activated, the spray reinforces the command. Once the behaviour has been successfully modified, the dog can be weaned from the collar. If the behaviour returns (spontaneous recovery) showing the collar, or allowing the dog to see and/or sniff the collar is often sufficient to stop the re-occurring behaviour (barking).

Virtual Fence© R3

The Virtual Fence© Kit contains a transmitter, a spray receiver collar, an antenna, perimeter wire, batteries, flags and a citronella refill. The reservoir is injected with citronella spray, a battery is inserted, the casing is then fixed onto the collar. The collar is secured around the dog's neck under the dog's chin, with the spray nozzle facing up, or facing the ground below the dog, depending on how the collar is positioned. The perimeter wire is buried under ground around the perimeter of the boundary. Flags are placed around the boundary on the ground above the buried wire, to give the dog a visual as to where the boundary is. The transmitter is plugged into a 120 volt outlet that “generates a low frequency radio signal. This signal is transmitted through the buried antenna.” R3 When the dog approaches the buried wire, the collar picks up the signal and emits a beeping tone as a warning - that it has come too close to the boundary. If the dog continues to approach the boundary, the collar releases a pressurized burst of spray under the dog's chin, in front of its snout, under its chin, or onto the ground below the dog, depending on the size and shape of the dog's head, as well as how the collar is positioned. If the dog retreats from the boundary when it hears the “beep” it will avoid the correction.

Spray Barrier™ R3

The Spray Barrier™ Kit contains a spray receiver collar, adjustable strap, AC adaptor, emitter dish, spray barrier box, battery and citronella refill. The reservoir is injected with citronella spray, a battery is inserted, the casing is then fixed onto the collar. The collar is secured around the dog's neck under the dog's chin, with the spray nozzle facing up, or facing the ground below the dog, depending on how the collar is positioned. The dish is plugged into a 120 volt outlet and generates a low frequency radio signal that transmits in all directions. As the dog approaches the dish, the signal is picked up by the collar - emitting a warning beep. If the dog continues to approach the dish, the collar releases a pressurized burst of spray under the dog's chin, in front of its snout, under its chin, or onto the ground below the dog, depending on the size and shape of the dog's head, as well as how the collar is positioned. If the dog retreats from the warning, it will avoid the correction.

Spray Commander© R3

The Spray Commander© Kit contains a spray collar, remote control, two batteries and citronella refill.

The reservoir is injected with citronella spray, a battery is inserted, the casing is then fixed onto the collar. The collar is secured around the dog's neck under the dog's chin, with the spray nozzle facing up, or facing the ground below the dog, depending on how the collar is positioned. The collar is controlled by the handler with a remote control. There are two uses for this collar.

#1) The Spray Commander© is used to interrupt an unwanted behaviour. When the dog performs an unwanted behaviour, pressing button number two will release a small burst of pressurized spray as a warning, in front of its snout, under its chin, or onto the ground below the dog, depending on the size and shape of the dog's head, as well as how the collar is positioned. If the behaviour continues, pressing button number three will release a longer burst of spray. The remote control also contains a button that produces a “beep” that can be used as either a reward marker, or the first warning – before the small spray.

#2) The Spray Commander© can be used to reinforce an interruption cue. When the dog preforms the unwanted behaviour, the handler can give a command or interruption cue. If the dog responds to the cue, the behaviour can be rewarded. If the dog does not respond to the cue, the warning button can be pressed. If the behaviour continues, the correction button can be pressed. The “beep” button can be used as a reward marker for the correct response, or as the first warning – before the small spray.

Ssscat© Automated Cat Repellent R3

The Ssscat© Kit contains a motion detector and refills. The movement of the dog triggers the motion detector. When this occurs a “beeping tone” is heard, one second later citronella spray is released. Proper application indicates this setting is to be used for “the first few days” R3 after which only the tone is to be triggered. The angle between the “detection of motion and direction of spray” are adjustable.

Parameters:

• Any citronella collar must be snug enough to ensure the spray goes only where intended.

• Citronella collars should not be used until you have analyzed the cause of the unwanted behaviour, and the cause has been properly addressed.

• Citronella collars should not be recommended for clients until positive reinforcement and negative punishment alternatives have been tried, and have failed.

• Citronella collars should only be used on dogs with a stable temperament. R8

• Citronella collars should not be used during sessions for the purpose of teaching commands and/or signals.

• Citronella collars should not be used until the dog has been taught the desired response.

• Collars set in the “off” position can be used outside of behaviour modification sessions for the purpose of “habituation to the collar” and “for dissociation of the collar with the spray” when making the transition to maintaining the desired behaviour - without the collar. R5
• The spray must be timed perfectly with the unwanted behaviour for the dog to be able to predict which behaviour will cause the correction.

• The timing of the warning must be exact for the dog to realize how to avoid the following correction.

• Citronella collars should only be used at times when suppressing the unwanted behaviour is required.

• Citronella collars should be removed when it is not necessary to suppress the unwanted behaviour.

• Citronella collars should not be used for barking caused by fear or anxiety because the dog may release its stress in other undesirable ways - including but not limited to; destruction, self-mutilation, “shutting down” and/or attempts to escape.

• Citronella collars should not be used on dogs with anxiety disorders. R8

• Citronella collars should only be used by or under the direction of a qualified dog trainer.

• Supervision is required during the initial use of any citronella product. The handler/trainer must be able to identify any sign of stress or fear – including but not limited to; whining, shaking, urinating, hiding, “whisker quiver, agonistic pucker” R5 or aggression. If any of these signs should occur the program must be immediately adjusted or discontinued to eliminate the stress or fear.
• Citronella products should not be used in small, confined areas as the spray can “permeate the area and continually annoy the dog”. R5
• The Aboistop© collar should not be used in the presence of another dog that has a stress or fear reaction to the spray.
• Precautions must be taken to prevent the collar from being accidentally triggered by “television stations, radio transmitters, other equipment or external noises or vibrations such as other dogs barking, ID tags jangling”, “wind or weather conditions” etc. R5
• The sensitivity of some collars can be adjusted. There are also differences in sensitivity from one unit to another. It is important that the collar has a level of sensitivity that is fair to the temperament of the dog. R8
• Aboistop©, Virtual Fence©, Spray Barrier™ , Ssscat© Kits should be used for no more than short-term absences and only after the collar is known to be effective and working correctly for that dog. R5
• Citronella products should be immediately discontinued if it does not interrupt the unwanted behaviour with minimal attempts. R5

• The Spray Commander units become abusive if the handler is incapable of accurate timing.

• Citronella products become abusive if the dog is sprayed in the eyes.

• Citronella products become abusive if the dog is stressed or fearful or suffers from anxiety.

• Citronella products become abusive when used in a small confined area.

• Citronella products become abusive when the spray causes stress or fear in another dog in the vicinity.

• Citronella products become abusive when they continually malfunction and spray at inappropriate times.

Benefits:

Multivet Products

• Used properly on the right temperament of dog, Multivet products are believed by many to be “neither dangerous nor traumatic for the animal, and may save an animal from being destroyed or abandoned”. R2

• Multivet products are easy to use.

• They are considered by many to be a “conditionally recommended” humane solution to many behavioural problems. R5
• Citronella products allow the handler to make a correction without making an association between the correction and the handler. Multivet products are “independent of any direct human intervention”. R2
• Citronella products are not painful and are physically harmless with the rare exception of when an allergy to citronella exists. R4 R5

• Studies have shown that the use of spray is more effective than shock for interrupting unwanted behaviour. All owners in a study by Roger Segelken, where dogs were tested with both citronella and shock collars “found the citronella collar to be effective in reducing or stopping nuisance barking and most preferred the fragrance spray.” Half of the owners said their dogs continued to bark with the shock collar on but not with the citronella collar. R6

• Citronella products are less likely to cause fear or aggression than shock equipment. R4
• The sound of the pressurized spray helps to suppress the unwanted behaviour. R4

• The scent of the citronella helps to suppress the unwanted behaviour.

• Unscented refills containing a 100% safe 34a, an “odorless, harmless and stainless” R2 spray is available for those that prefer to not use citronella. This spray “has no active chemical agent, only an innocuous propellant” R2, “is ozone friendly and has no side effects.” R2

• Citronella products are temporary training tools, because once the dog's behavior has been successfully modified, the dog can be “weaned” from the collar.

• If the behaviour returns, showing the collar to the dog or allowing the dog to see and/or sniff the collar is often sufficient to stop the re-occurring behaviour.

• The dog learns that its behaviour is what causes the spray, as result the dog learns to think and make a decision to behave in a different manner.

• Because no association is made with people, the dog's behaviour is more reliable when people are not around.

• Citronella collars can be positioned on the dog's neck to aim at the ground instead of up at the neck or “snout” in order to avoid having any of the spray touch the dog's head.

• Multi-vet has been very good about repairing and replacing faulty or malfunctioning equipment.

Aboistop© Kits

• “Clinical research by major American and European Universities” show that Aboistop© will eliminate “nuisance-barking” by up to 88%. R2

Virtual Fence© Kits

• The Virtual Fence© allows the dog the freedom to roam within the designated boundary without the need of fences, chains or kennels. R2
• The Virtual© Fence Kit is less expensive than invisible shock fencing systems.

Spray Barrier™ Kits

• With this Kit, no installation or training is required.

• The Spray Barrier™ Kit includes an adjustable range of up to 20 feet.

• The spray only has to be used until the dog has been conditioned to avoid the beep.

Spray Commander© Kits

• With the Spray Commander© Kit, the remote control allows the handler the ability to correct the dog at a distance.

• The remote control gives the handler the ability to time the correction to the exact moment of the unwanted behaviour, to ensure the dog makes the association between the behaviour and the correction.

• It can be used up to 300 feet away from the dog.

• It gives the handler the ability to interrupt a variety of behaviours.

• It gives the handler the ability to mark an unwanted behaviour

• It gives the handler the ability to reinforce an interruption cue.

Ssscat© Kits

• The Ssscat© Kit can be used to repel dogs away from “off-limit” areas or items such as furniture, breakables, garbage cans, tables, counters, rooms, food, plants, Christmas trees, etc.

• With this Kit, the spray is only to be used until the dog has been conditioned to avoid the beep.

Aboistop© and Spray Commander© Kits

• Because these Kits interrupt the barking immediately, they serves to prevent barking from escalating into a frenzy and as result, helps to keep the dog “slightly calmer”. R8

Virtual© Fence and Spray Barrier™ Kits

• With these Kits, multiple collars can be used within one fencing system, with only one collar on a dog at any given time.

Spray Barrier™ and Ssscat© Kits

• The spray in these Kits contain 34a that is “odorless, harmless and stainless” and 100% safe for people and animals. This spray “has no active chemical agent, only an innocuous propellant”, “is ozone friendly and has no side effects”. R2
• With these Kits, the spray can be aimed in a different direction than the motion detector to avoid having any of the spray touch the dog. The nozzle can be aimed both up and down in order to direct the spray.

Aboistop©, Virtual Fence©, Spray Barrier™, Ssscat© Kits

• These Kits can be used “in your short term absence once the collar is known to be effective and working correctly for that dog.” R3

Spray Barrier™ , Spray Commander© and Ssscat© Kits

• These Kits can be used to repel a dog away from “off-limit”areas or items such as furniture, breakables, garbage cans, tables, counters, rooms, food, plants Christmas trees, etc.

• These Kits can quickly interrupt, reduce and/or eliminate numerous unwanted behaviours such as jumping up, barking, scratching carpets or furniture, chewing or digging, and can be used to prevent the dog from eliminating in inappropriate places.

• The dog does not associate this correction with a person in the environment, instead it associates it with the object or area. The dog learns that particular objects or areas are to be avoided.

• If the handler gives a command ie; “shush” at the same time the collar is activated, the spray reinforces the command.

Drawbacks, Risks and Warnings:

Physical

• “In rare cases, a dog or person may be allergic to citronella”. R4

• In rare cases, citronella may cause irritation if sprayed into the eyes.

• Since the Aboistop© Anti-Bark Spray Collar Brochure states it “can be used safely on all healthy dogs” R3 it leaves the question of what constitutes a “healthy dog” and what may occur if the dog is not “healthy”?

Behavioural/Psychological/Emotional

• If used on sensitive, timid, fearful, anxious or overly assertive dogs, pressurized citronella spray products can cause stress, anxiety, fear, submission, aggression, stress, depression, avoidance behaviours and/or could cause the dog to “shut down”.

• If used on sensitive, timid, fearful or anxious dogs, it could inhibit their ability to learn.

• If on sensitive, timid, fearful or anxious dogs for the purpose of stopping unwanted barking,

behaviour such as destruction, self-mutilation, attempts to escape, etc, could result as the dog continues to behave in a fearful manner and/or release its stress.

• Unwanted associations may be created if the dog pairs up the unpleasant experience with someone or something in the environment at the moment it is sprayed. For example; if a sensitive or fearful dog is focused on a child when sprayed, it may create an unpleasant association with that child, children that are similar or children in general. This association can cause fear of children which could lead to fear aggression. The unpleasant experience can cause fear or distrust of anyone or anything in the environment that the dog is focused on when the unpleasant experience occurs.

• With a Virtual Fence© system, a dog may be frightened or traumatized by animals or people crossing the boundary and entering the dog’s territory.

Mechanical

• If the collar is not fitted snuggly the spray may hit the nose or eyes.

• The citronella oil could stain upholstery. R6

• Multi-vet products have been known to have a limited life span and often need repair.

• With the Virtual Fence© system, if the dog crosses the boundary it is unlikely to re-enter the territory for fear of being sprayed, hence the dog is trapped outside of the boundary.

• When using the Virtual Fence© system, since there is no physical barrier to keep the dog within the boundaries, the danger exists for the dog to be lured outside of the parameter. This can result in any of the dangers associated with running at large up to, and including, injury and death.

• When using the Virtual Fence© system, since there is no physical barrier to keep other people and/or animals out, the danger exists for outsiders to come inside the parameter. This can result in any of the dangers associated with the dog being approached, or cornered by unwanted people or animals.

• Aboistop© collars can be triggered by “television stations, radio transmitters, other equipment, external noises or vibrations such as, other dogs barking, ID tags jangling”, “wind or weather conditions” etc. R3

Limitations:

• Multivet systems may not be effective with resilient, and overly assertive dogs.

• They may be too severe for sensitive, fearful, stressed, or anxious dogs.

• Some dogs will learn how to empty the reservoir in order to continue barking.

• The ability to accurately read and interpret body language is crucial to deciding whether or not citronella products are acceptable for a particular dog. R5

Viable Alternatives

• “Noise corrections” used humanely to interrupt the unwanted behaviour.

• Counter-conditioning .

• Obedience training .

• Systematic desensitization .

• Negative Punishment - Remove something pleasant to decrease a behaviour .

• Positive Punishment - Add something unpleasant to decrease a behaviour. (Extremely Limited - ie; "Ah Ah" - must not cause fear or pain)

• Negative Reinforcement - Remove something unpleasant to increase a behaviour. (Extremely Limited - ie; "Ah Ah" - must not cause fear or pain)

• Positive Reinforcement - Add something pleasant to increase a behaviour.

• Interrupt and redirect – Interrupt the unwanted behaviou,r and re-direct it to a behaviour that can be reinforced.

• Create a reliable “on-off” switch to put the behaviour on cue.

• Create other acceptable outlets for the unwanted behaviour.

• Environmental management to prevent the unwanted behaviour from occurring.

• Humane behaviour modification programs.

Note: The severity of any positive punishment or negative reinforcement technique must be suitable for the sensitivity level of the dog, and only used on dogs with confident and resilient temperaments. It is the united opinion of the IPDTA that anything that causes fear or pain is not acceptable. Any IPDTA-accepted tool or technique immediately becomes unacceptable the moment the dog shows any sign of fear or pain.

References:

R2 – Ad for Ssscat© Kit, July 10, 2002 – Multi-Vet Ltd. (US Patent No 4,627,385)

R2 – Aboistop© Anti-Bark Spray Collar Brochure – Multi-Vet Ltd. (US Patent No 4,627,385)

R3 – Website – http://www.multivet-inter.com

R4 - Professional Standards for Dog Trainers, Delta Society Pg 26, 27, 28 - 2001

R5 - Guide to Humane Dog Training, American Humane Association Pg 41, 42, 45, 46 - 1998-2001

R6 – Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association – Study: 'Nuisance-barking' dogs respond best to citronella spray collars, Roger Segelken, May-June 1996

R7 – Study: Effectiveness and comparison of citronella and scentless spray bark collars for the control of barking in a veterinary hospital setting - Mesa Veterinary Hospital, Mesa, Arizona USA, Moffat KS, Landsberg GM, Beaudet R.

R8 – Email notes - Gillian Ridgeway of Who's Walking Who, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, May 2006

Tool: Citronella Training Products

Rating:  Acceptable when used following the criteria described in these research findings. 

Tool: Choke Chain Training Collar

Rating: Unacceptable due to high potential for misuse and/or abuse

Operant Sequence:

Positive Punishment - adding the choke correction to decrease the likelihood that the behaviour will be repeated. ie: snapping the choke chain to stop the dog from pulling on the leash.
Negative Reinforcement - ending the choke correction to increase the likelihood that the behaviour will be repeated. ie: releasing the choke sensation to increase the likelihood that the dog will stay in heel position (avoidance conditioning)

Use of Tool: Powerful Aversive

Proper Application: To put a choke chain on properly stand facing the dog. Make the letter “P” with the collar and slip it over the dog’s head. When the leash is pulled the chain tightens against the dog’s trachea and neck causing a choking sensation, physical discomfort and/or pain. Proper use of the choke chain involves holding the leash in your right hand with the dog in heel position on your left.

The correction is made with a quick snap-release movement across your body away from the dog. Some believe that the sound of the chain is a correction in itself.

Parameters:

Timing of the correction must be exact for the dog to realize which behaviour will predict the correction and which behaviour will prevent it.

The severity of the correction must match the dog’s level of sensitivity.

The dog must be taught the desired behaviour before being corrected for the undesirable behaviour.

Benefits:

The dog is less likely to back out of the collar because it tightens as the dog backs up. R1

Drawbacks, Risks and Warnings:

Physical

If the collar is tightened for an extended period of time it can cause discomfort, pain, injury and/or asphyxiation..

Too severe a correction can cause injury to the trachea or cause the trachea to collapse.

Too severe a correction or tightening for an extended period of time can cause discomfort, pain, injury to the muscles of the dog’s neck, spinal injury, blindness. R2, brain damage, R3 and even death.

The narrower the collar, the higher the risk to the dog. R4

The higher the collar on the dog’s neck, the higher the risk to the dog. R5

Since an uneducated handler has a 50% chance of putting the collar on correctly, there is a 50% chance that the collar will lock in a choke position.

Because proper use of the choke chain involves good timing and reflexes, coordination, awareness and sensitivity, the risk for abuse is high.

Choke chains have been known to cause irritation, wounds and infection.

If the choke collar is left on the dog when unsupervised, the dog can become caught by the collar and can injure itself, cause de-gloving of the skin on the neck and head, strangulation or even death.

If the choke collar is left on a growing dog the collar will become tighter and tighter and eventually break through the fur and skin causing irritation, wounds, discomfort, pain, strangulation and even death.

If the choke chain is left on while two dogs are playing together, a dog’s jaw can become caught in the chain causing injury to one or both dogs.

If the dog hits the end of the leash, life line or retractable leash with any force it can cause injury.

If positioned too close to the ears, the correction will affect the sensitive nerve bundles that exit just below the dog’s ears.

Due to the factors listed above, it is the opinion of IPDTA members that the risks involved outweigh the benefits.

Behavioural

Choke chain collars have been known to cause fear, submission, aggression, stress, depression and avoidance behaviours.

Improper use of the choke chain is seldom effective in changing unwanted behaviour.

The anxiety caused by the correction can increase aggressive behaviour, the severity and frequency of aggressive episodes.

Psychological

Unwanted associations may be created if the dog pairs up the unpleasant experience with someone or something in the environment at the moment it is choked. For example; if the dog is focused on a child when corrected, it may create an unpleasant association with children. This association can cause fear of the child which could lead to fear aggression.

The unpleasant experience can create fear and distrust of the handler.

The unpleasant experience can create fear and distrust of anyone or anything in the environment.

In order to effectively stop an unwanted behaviour with as few corrections as possible, the dog’s temperament and level of sensitivity must be known. Since there is no way to know how sensitive the dog is to the physical correction without correcting it, the risk of making a mistake is high. If you start too high and work your way down you can create fear and/or aggression, if you start too low and work your way up you can desensitize the dog to the correction and/or cause habituation; which is the ability to stop reacting to meaningless stimuli through repeat exposure. R6 When this happens you will require higher and higher levels of correction to stop the unwanted behaviour. Therefore, finding the correct intensity of choke risks causing pain, physical harm, damaging the dog’s temperament and/or creating new behavioural problems.

The unpleasant experience can cause stress, anxiety, and/or depression, leading to other behavior issues and/or the inability to learn.

Mechanical

Unlike the pinch collar the choke chain does not have limited constriction increasing the risk of abuse.

Limitations:

Excellent timing and reflexes, coordination, awareness and sensitivity are essential to proper use of the choke chain.

Since it takes very little strength to deliver a severe correction, the risk for misuse and abuse is high.

Because human behaviour is often affected by emotions, there is a risk of bad judgement and/or timing on part of the handler.

The dog may not be able to feel the correction if there is too much hair between the chain and the skin.

This tool can only be effective once the dog understands the desired response.

The choke chain is only effective if put on and used properly.

If the collar is too tight it can cause non-stop pain and/or discomfort.

The choke chain collar can only be used during supervised training.

Viable Alternatives

A suitable, well-fitting head halter

Counter-conditioning

Obedience training

Systematic desensitization

Negative Punishment - Remove something pleasant to decrease a behaviour

Positive Punishment - Add something unpleasant to decrease a behaviour (Extremely Limited - ie; "Ah Ah" - must not cause fear or pain)

Negative Reinforcement - Remove something unpleasant to increase a behaviour (Extremely Limited - ie; "Ah Ah" - must not cause fear or pain)

Positive Reinforcement - Add something pleasant to increase a behaviour

Interrupt and redirect

Create a reliable “on-off” switch to put the behaviour on cue

Create other acceptable outlets for the unwanted behaviour

Environmental management to prevent the unwanted behaviour from occurring

References
R1 -Professional Standards for Dog Trainers, Delta Society 2001, Page 20
R2 - Guide to Humane Dog Training, American Humane Association 1998-2001 Page 28
R3 - Guide to Humane Dog Training, American Humane Association 1998-2001 Page 28
R4 - Guide to Humane Dog Training, American Humane Association 1998-2001 Page 28
R5 - Guide to Humane Dog Training, American Humane Association 1998-2001 Page 28
R6 -“Habituation” - Excel-lerated Learning, Pamela J Reid Ph.D., James & Kenneth Publishers 1996 Page 37-38

Tool: Flat, Non-Slip Collar

Rating: Acceptable when fitted properly and used for safety and identification only. Not acceptable when used as a correction device.

Operant Sequence:

The intended use of the flat, non-slip collar does not include an operant sequence as its purpose is only for safety, when attached to a leash or life-line and/or to hold identification. When used as a correction collar it works with the following quadrants of operant conditioning.

Positive Punishment - adding a pop-release correction to decrease the likelihood that the behaviour will be repeated. ie: adding a pop-release correction with the leash to stop the dog from pulling.
Negative Reinforcement - ending the pop-release correction to increase the likelihood that the behaviour will be repeated. ie: ending the pop-release correction to keep the dog in heel position. (avoidance conditioning)

Use of Tool: A safety device and/or to hold identification and/or used as an aversive.

Proper Application:

As a safety and identification device, proper application only includes a proper fit, positioning and securing the collar around the dog’s neck. A proper fit includes enough space between the dog’s neck and the collar to be able to insert at least two fingers, but not loose enough to allow escape if the dog were to attempt to back out of it or to increase the risk of snagging.

As an aversive tool, proper use of the flat, non-slip collar involves holding the leash in your right hand with the dog in heel position on your left. The correction is made with a quick snap-release movement across your body away from the dog, without the use of constriction.

Note: The following refers to the use of the flat, non-slip collar as a correction or restraint device.

Parameters:

Timing of the correction must be exact for the dog to realize which behaviour will predict the correction and which behaviour will prevent it.

The severity of the correction must match the dog’s level of sensitivity.

The dog must be taught the desired behaviour before being corrected for the undesirable behaviour.

Benefits:

The dog is not likely to back out of the collar if it is fitted properly.

Since the collar does not constrict there is a much lower risk for abuse.

This is the most comfortable collar for a dog to wear.

Drawbacks, Risks and Warnings:

Physical

If the collar is pulled for an extended period of time it can cause coughing, gagging, vomiting, pain and/or discomfort.
Too severe a correction can cause injury to the trachea or cause the trachea to collapse.

Too severe or an improper extended correction can cause discomfort, coughing, gagging, vomiting, pain, injury to the muscles of the dog’s neck, spinal injury, blindness, brain damage, and even death. ie; when a dog becomes trapped and attempts escape. Proper fit reduces this risk.

If the collar is left on when a dog is unsupervised it can become snagged causing the dog to cough, gag, vomit, with the possibility of causing pain, injury, de-gloving, strangulation and/or death.

The higher the collar on the dog’s neck, the higher the risk to the dog.

Since a proper correction requires good timing and reflexes, coordination, awareness and sensitivity, there is a risk for abusive application.

Some collars have been known to cause irritation, wounds and infection and therefore the material the collar is made from is a factor.
If the collar is not adjusted as a dog grows the collar will become embedded in the dog neck, becoming tighter and tighter causing irritation, wounds, discomfort, pain, strangulation or even death.

If the collar is fitted too loosely and left on while two dogs are playing together, a dog’s jaw can become caught in the other dog’s collar causing injury to one or both dogs.

If the dog hits the end of the leash, “life-line” or retractable leash with any force, it can cause injury.

If positioned too close to the ears, the correction can affect the sensitive nerve bundles that exit just below the dog’s ears.

If the flat, non-slip collar is not fitted properly the dog could back out of it and escape.

Behavioural

Improper use of flat, non-slip collars have been known to cause fear, submissive aggression, stress, depression and avoidance behaviours.

Improper use of this collar is seldom effective in changing unwanted behaviour.

The anxiety caused by improper use or severe corrections can increase aggressive behaviour, the severity and frequency of aggressive episodes.

Psychological

Unwanted associations may be created if the dog pairs up the unpleasant experience of the correction with someone or something in the environment at the moment it is corrected. For example; if the dog is focused on a child when corrected, it may create an unpleasant association with children. This association can cause fear of the child which could lead to fear aggression.
The unpleasant experience can create fear and distrust of the handler.

The unpleasant experience can also create fear and distrust of anyone or anything in the environment.

In order to effectively stop an unwanted behaviour with as few corrections as possible, the dog’s temperament and level of sensitivity must be known. Since there is no way to know how sensitive the dog is to the physical correction without correcting it, the risk of making a mistake is high. If you start too high and work your way down you can create fear and/or aggression, if you start too low and work your way up you can desensitize the dog to the correction and/or cause habituation; which is the ability to stop reacting to meaningless stimuli through repeat exposure. R2 When this happens you will require higher and higher levels of correction to stop the unwanted behaviour. Therefore, finding the correct intensity of correction risks causing pain, physical harm, damaging the dog’s temperament and/or creating new behavioural problems.

The unpleasant experience can cause stress, anxiety, and/or depression, leading to other behavior issues and/or the inability to learn.

Limitations:

Excellent timing and reflexes, coordination, awareness and sensitivity are essential to proper application of a flat, non-slip collar correction.

Since human behaviour is often effected by emotions, there is a risk of bad judgement and/or timing on part of the handler.

The dog may not be able to feel the correction if there is too much hair between the chain and the skin.

This tool can only be effective once the dog understands the desired response.

The flat, non-slip collar is only effective if fitted and used properly.

If the collar is too tight it can cause non-stop pain and/or discomfort.

Viable Alternatives

Counter-conditioning

Obedience training

Systematic desensitization

Negative Punishment - Remove something pleasant to decrease a behaviour

Positive Punishment - Add something unpleasant to decrease a behaviour (Extremely Limited - ie; "Ah Ah" - must not cause fear or pain)

Negative Reinforcement - Remove something unpleasant to increase a behaviour (Extremely Limited - ie; "Ah Ah" - must not cause fear or pain)

Positive Reinforcement - Add something pleasant to increase a behaviour

Interrupt and redirect

Create a reliable “on-off” switch to put the behaviour on cue

Creating other acceptable outlets for the unwanted behaviour

Environmental management to prevent the unwanted behaviour from occurring

Note: When the flat, non-slip collar is fitted properly and used correctly, or used to hold
identification, the IPDTA finds it acceptable because it comes with minimal risk.

References
R1 -Professional Standards for Dog Trainers, Delta Society 2001, Page 19
R2 -“Habituation” - Excel-lerated Learning, Pamela J Reid Ph.D., James & Kenneth Publishers 1996 Page 37-38

Tool: Head Halter; Gentle Leader ®, Promise ™ System, Easy Way Collar ™, Halti Brand head halter

Rating: Acceptable when fitted properly and used following the criteria described in these research findings. Not acceptable when used for punishment.

Operant Sequence:

The intended use of the head halter does not include an operant sequence as its purpose is for safety only, when attached to a leash or life-line and/or to control the movement of the nose, head and neck of an otherwise powerful dog. However, some dogs find the feel of the head halter and the pressure caused by tightening around the nose and/or neck unpleasant, in which case it becomes an aversive. When used as an aversive it works with the following quadrants of operant conditioning.

Positive Punishment - pulling on the leash to cause tightening to the nose and/or neck and restriction of movement to decrease the likelihood that the behaviour will be repeated. ie: adding tightening to stop the dog from pulling.
Negative Reinforcement - ending the tightening to increase the likelihood that the behaviour will be repeated. ie: ending the tightening in order to maintain heel position (avoidance conditioning)

Use of Tool: A safety device and/or an aversive.

Proper Application:

As a safety device, proper application includes a proper fit, positioning and securing the head halter. The Gentle Leader, Promise System and Halti are properly secured with the neck strap tight enough that you cannot fit one finger between the dog’s neck and the collar, as snug as a neck tie. R1 The nose strap should rest between the corners of the dog’s mouth and the eyes and fastened into place with the adjustable clasp located under the dog’s chin. If fitted properly the nose strap should not be able to reach the fleshy part of the dog’s nose, nor ride up into the dog’s eyes. R2

The Easy Way collar is properly secured with the Nape Loop fastened comfortably behind the dog’s neck with the Nose Loop positioned comfortably around the muzzle between the nose and eyes, so that the Nose Loop cannot be pulled over the nose. R8

When the dog pulls on leash the Gentle Leader, Promise System and Halti will tighten around the dog’s nose and neck as well as pull the dog’s head toward the handler. Proper procedure includes gently drawing the dog into position then immediately loosening the leash.

The Easy Way collar works with the dog’s balance. Since the leash is attached to a ring behind the dog’s head pulling on the leash throws the dog off balance, forcing it to relax into a loose leash.

Parameters:
The leash must remain loose in between corrections for the dog to realize which behaviour will predict the correction and which behaviour will prevent it.  The dog must be taught the desired behaviour before being corrected for the undesirable behaviour.

Benefits:

The head halter “has a calming effect on some dogs.” R3

Since the head halter has limited constriction there is a lower risk for abuse than those tools that have unlimited constriction.
Some dogs adjust to this device quickly and find it comfortable.

Much like the use of a head halter on a horse, the head halter controls the dog’s strength by controlling the movements of the dog’s head.

Unlike a collar, the head halter does not constrict the dog’s airway.

By controlling the movement of the dog’s nose, bites can sometimes be avoided.

The head halter can provide light touch control over otherwise powerful dogs.

The head halter can make it easier to maintain the dog’s attention.

The head halter can provide those with limited strength such as; children, seniors and the disabled the ability to control otherwise powerful dogs.

The Easy Way collar has a fleece-lined Nose Loop that allows for additional comfort because it will not rub or ride up on the dog’s face. R9

Since the leash is attached to the Easy Way collar behind the dog’s head as opposed to under the chin, it eliminates the possibility of choking and twisting of the head and neck. R10

The Easy Way collar has an additional strap and clasp that can be attached to the dead ring on a flat collar for additional safety by way of preventing escape should the Easy Way collar come off. R11

Drawbacks, Risks and Warnings:

Physical

There is a high risk of escape if the head halter is fitted too loosely.

The Halti brand head halter does not have an adjustable clip under the chin. Because of this it is difficult to get a proper fit, the nose strap is more likely to be pulled over the nose and/or push up and into the eyes also increasing the risk for escape.

The head halter can cause pain and/or discomfort if fitted too tightly.

The head halter can cause chaffing above the dog’s nose and behind the head.

The dog can injure itself if it attempts to remove the head halter with its paws or by rubbing its face on the ground.

Some dogs are highly resistant to the head halter causing distrust in the handler, fear, avoidance behaviors, escape attempts and/or aggression.

Some dogs are traumatized by the head halter.

Some dogs never adjust to the head halter.

Harsh corrections have been blamed for causing distrust in the handler, fear, avoidance behaviors, escape attempts, aggression and/or spinal damage.

If the collar is pulled for an extended period of time it can cause pain and/or discomfort.

If the head halter is left on when a dog is unsupervised, it can become snagged causing pain and/or injury.

Since proper use is different from the use of a collar the risk for misuse or abuse is high.

Since proper use requires good timing and reflexes, coordination, awareness and sensitivity, there is a risk for abusive application.

Some head halters have been known to cause irritation, wounds and infection.

If the collar is left on while two dogs are playing together, a dog’s jaw or paw or nail can become caught in the other dog’s collar causing injury to one or both dogs.

If the dog hits the end of the leash, life line or retractable leash with any force it can cause injury including, but not limited to, spinal injury.

If positioned too close to the eyes, the head halter push into the eyes causing pain and/or discomfort and/or injury to the eye including blindness.

The head halter may be difficult to fit on dogs with a short nose.

The head halter may be dangerous when used on dogs with “inherent breathing difficulties.” R4

The head halter may be dangerous when used on dogs with “cervical damage.” R5

Dogs with short coats are more prone to irritation on the sensitive skin on top of the muzzle. R7

Behavioural
Improper use of the head halter has been known to cause fear, submission, aggression, stress, depression and avoidance behaviours.
Improper use of the head halter is seldom effective in changing unwanted behaviour.

The anxiety caused by improper use or severe corrections can increase aggressive behaviour, the severity and frequency of aggressive episodes.

Dogs prone to aggressive behaviour may become aggressive when the halter is put on. R6

Psychological

Unwanted associations may be created if the dog pairs up the unpleasant experience of the correction with someone or something in the environment at the moment it is corrected. For example; if the dog is focused on a child when corrected, it may create an unpleasant association with children. This association can cause fear of the child which could lead to fear aggression.

The unpleasant experience can create fear and distrust of the handler.

The unpleasant experience can create fear and distrust of anyone or anything in the environment.

The unpleasant experience can cause stress, anxiety, and/or depression, leading to other behavior issues and/or the inability to learn.

Limitations:

A desensitization program is often necessary to help the dog habituate to this piece of equipment.

Excellent timing and reflexes, coordination, awareness and sensitivity are essential to proper application of a head halter correction.

Since human behaviour is often affected by emotions, there is a risk of bad judgement, and/or timing on part of the handler.

This tool can only be effective once the dog understands the desired response.

The head halter is only effective if fitted and used properly.

If the head halter is too tight it can cause non-stop pain and/or discomfort.

Viable Alternatives

Counter-conditioning

Obedience training

Systematic desensitization

Negative Punishment - Remove something pleasant to decrease a behaviour

Positive Punishment - Add something unpleasant to decrease a behaviour (Extremely Limited - ie; "Ah Ah" - must not cause fear or pain)

Negative Reinforcement - Remove something unpleasant to increase a behaviour (Extremely Limited - ie; "Ah Ah" - must not cause fear or pain)

Positive Reinforcement - Add something pleasant to increase a behaviour

Interrupt and redirect

Create a reliable “on-off” switch to put the behaviour on cue

Creating other acceptable outlets for the unwanted behaviour

Environmental management to prevent the unwanted behaviour from occurring

References:
R1 - Promise, The Natural Behavior Management System, Dr. Robert K. Anderson and Ruth E. Foster, Professional Animal Behavior Associates 1989, Page19
R2 - Promise, The Natural Behavior Management System, Dr. Robert K. Anderson and Ruth E. Foster, Professional Animal Behavior Associates 1989, Page20
R3 - Professional Standards for Dog Trainers, Delta Society 2001, Page 19
R4 - Guide to Humane Dog Training, American Humane Association 1998-2001 Page 26
R5 - Guide to Humane Dog Training, American Humane Association 1998-2001 Page 26
R6 - Guide to Humane Dog Training, American Humane Association 1998-2001 Page 26
R7 - Guide to Humane Dog Training, American Humane Association 1998-2001 Page 266
R8 - New Trix Instruction Sheet and website at www.newtrix.ca
R9 - New Trix Instruction Sheet and website at www.newtrix.ca
R10 - New Trix Instruction Sheet and website at www.newtrix.ca
R11 - New Trix Instruction Sheet and website at www.newtrix.ca

Tool: Pinch or Prong Collar

Rating: Unacceptable due to high risk for misuse and/or abuse

Operant Sequence:

Positive Punishment - adding the pinch to decrease the likelihood that the behaviour will be repeated. ie: pulling on the pinch collar to stop the dog from pulling on leash.
Negative Reinforcement - ending the pinch to increase the likelihood that the behaviour will be repeated. ie: ending the pinch to keep the dog in heel position (avoidance conditioning).

Use of Tool: Powerful Aversive

Proper Application: The pinch collar is opened by removing one link, then wrapped around the dog’s neck. It is then fastened by replacing the missing link. The collar should fit with the prongs facing the neck, snug enough for the prongs to lightly touch but not push into the skin. When the leash is pulled or tightens, the prongs push against the skin and muscles of the neck causing physical discomfort or pain. Unlike the choke chain and slip collar, the pinch collar has limited constriction. It takes minimal effort to create a powerful correction.

Parameters:

Timing of the correction must be exact for the dog to realize which behaviour will predict the correction.

The severity of the correction must match the dog’s level of sensitivity.

The dog must be taught the desired behaviour before being corrected for the undesirable behaviour.

Benefits:

Has limited constriction.

Takes little effort for handlers with limited strength.

Distributes even pressure around the neck.

Takes less skill to use than some other collars.

Drawbacks, Risks and Warnings:

Physical

The metal prongs allow for a high potential for causing pain and/or physical injury.

Has been known to cause irritation, wounds and infection.

If the collar is left on the dog when not supervised, the dog can become caught by the collar and can injure itself, cause de-gloving of the skin on the neck and head, cause strangulation and even death.

If two dogs are playing together, the dog’s jaw can become caught in the chain causing injury to one or both dogs.

If the dog hits the end of the leash, life line or retractable leash with any force it can cause injury.

If positioned too close to the ears, the correction will affect the sensitive nerve bundles just below the dog’s ears.

Behavioural

Pinch collars have been known to cause fear, submission, aggression, stress, depression and avoidance behaviours.

The anxiety caused by the correction can increase aggressive behaviour, the severity and frequency of aggressive episodes.

Psychological

Unwanted associations may be created if the dog pairs up the unpleasant experience with someone or something in the environment at the moment it is shocked. For example; if the dog is focused on a child when corrected, it may create an unpleasant association with children. This association can cause fear of the child which could lead to fear aggression.

The unpleasant experience can create fear and distrust of the handler.

The unpleasant experience can create fear and distrust of anyone or anything in the environment.

In order to effectively stop an unwanted behaviour with as few corrections as possible, the dog’s temperament and level of sensitivity must be known. Because there is no way to know how sensitive the dog is to the physical correction without correcting it, the risk of making a mistake is high. If you start too high and work your way down you can create fear and/or aggression, if you start too low and work your way up you can desensitize the dog to the correction and/or cause habituation; which is the ability to stop reacting to meaningless stimuli through repeat exposure. R1 When this happens you will require higher and higher levels of correction to stop the unwanted behaviour. Therefore, finding the correct intensity of correction risks causing pain, physical harm, damaging the dog’s temperament and/or creating new behaviour problems.

The unpleasant experience can cause stress, anxiety, and/or depression, leading to other behavior issues and/or the inability to learn.

Limitations:

Goals must be achieved with as few corrections as possible.

Excellent timing is essential for the dog to associate the correction with the unwanted behaviour.

Since it takes very little strength to deliver a severe correction, the risk for misuse and abuse is high.

Because human behaviour is often affected by emotions, there is a risk of bad judgement and/or timing on part of the handler.

The dog may not be able to feel the correction if there is too much hair between the prongs and the skin.

This tool can only be effective once the dog understands the desired response.

Links have been known to come loose resulting in an escaped dog.

Putting the collar on the dog requires strength and good vision.

If the collar is too loose, contact will be concentrated on one particular area which can result in too much pressure to one spot on the dog’s neck.

If the collar is too tight it can cause non-stop pain and/or discomfort.

The pinch collar can only be used during supervised training.

The size of the links must be appropriate to the size of the dog.

Viable Alternatives

A suitable, well-fitting head halter (ie: Gentle Leader)

Counter-conditioning

Obedience training

Systematic desensitization

Negative Punishment - Remove something pleasant to decrease a behaviour

Positive Punishment - Add something unpleasant to decrease a behaviour (Extremely Limited - ie; "Ah Ah" - must not cause fear or pain)

Negative Reinforcement - Remove something unpleasant to increase a behaviour (Extremely Limited - ie; "Ah Ah" - must not cause fear or pain)

Positive Reinforcement - Add something pleasant to increase a behaviour

Interrupt and redirect

Create a reliable “on-off” switch to put the behaviour on cue

Creating other acceptable outlets for the unwanted behaviour

Environmental management to prevent the unwanted behaviour from occurring

References:
R1 - “Habituation” - Excel-lerated Learning, Pamela J Reid Ph.D., James & Kenneth Publishers 1996 Page 37-38

Tool: Shock Collar Products

Rating: Unacceptable due to high potential for misuse, abuse and/or malfunction

Operant Sequence:

Positive Punishment - adding the shock to decrease the likelihood that the behaviour will be repeated. ie: shocking the dog to stop the barking.
Negative Reinforcement - ending the shock to increase the likelihood that the behaviour will be repeated. ie: ending the shock to keep the dog in heel position (avoidance conditioning).

Use of Tool: Powerful Aversive

Proper Application: The collar holds a receiver unit in the form of a small box with metal studs that rest under the dog’s chin, against the skin of its neck.

Remote Controlled Shock Collars - A hand-held remote controlled transmitter allows the handler to trigger an electrical charge, this shocks the dog through the metal studs on the receiver. Some units include the option of a tone button, which is used as a warning that a shock will follow if the behaviour continues.

Sound Activated Shock Collars - These collars are triggered by the dog’s own bark as the sound activates a microphone on the receiver itself to trigger the shock.

Electronic Containment Systems - These systems consist of an emitter, a receiver collar and an antenna wire that is buried in the ground around the perimeter of the containment area. Flags visually mark the perimeter until the dog knows and no longer crosses the boundary. The emitter is plugged into a regular household power outlet and generates a low frequency radio signal. As the dog approaches the boundary, the emitter emits a warning beep. If the dog crosses the line, it receives a shock.

Parameters:

Timing of the shock must be exact for the dog to realize which behaviour will predict the shock.

Timing of the warning must be exact for the dog to realize how to avoid the shock.

Benefits:

If timed correctly, the unpleasant, painful or frightening stimulus of the shock frightens the dog, making it less likely to perform the behaviour, to avoid the shock.

If timed correctly, the tone that predicts the shock may prevent the dog from exhibiting the unwanted behavior and eliminating the need to shock the dog.

The remote control gives the handler the ability to make corrections at a distance.

Once the dog shows avoidance behaviour towards the flags of the invisible fence system, they can be moved to other areas where the owner does not want the dog to go.

Unlike remote-controlled systems, the collar triggered by the dog’s bark and the invisible fence are not dependent upon human timing and therefore consistency is more likely.

Drawbacks, Risks and Warnings:

Physical