New advisory cautions against use of electronic shock collars and prong collars on dogs
SINGAPORE – Dog owners are being discouraged from using electronic shock collars and prong collars to train their pets as such devices can cause serious harm to canines, according to a new advisory released by Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) on July 26.
Electronic collars are designed to deliver stimulus such as an electric shock, vibration or spray at the dog's neck. Prong collars comprise a series of links with teeth or blunted ends, designed to pinch the skin around a dog's neck when it's tightened.
Both fall under a category of tools called aversive training devices, which inflict discomfort or pain to deter unwanted behaviour in dogs. Such devices are easily available online, and can cost between $15 to over $250.
The advisory, which aims to help dog owners understand the downsides of such devices, was launched by Minister of State for National Development and Trade and Industry Alvin Tan during the Pet's Day Out event held at Tampines Boulevard Park. The event saw pet lovers gathering for workshops and a pet marketplace.
AVS, a cluster within the National Parks Board (NParks), will also be reviewing the need to license the use of animal training devices, as part of the review of Animals and Birds Act. The review will take into consideration the outcomes and feedback for the advisory.
Said Mr Tan: '(The advisory) provides clear, science-based guidance to help dog trainers and pet owners make informed and responsible decisions about training methods.'
The advisory also strongly encourages positive, rewards-based training methods.
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'These are methods that help build trust with our dogs, making them feel safe and confident, while training and teaching them to better adapt to life in our urban environment,' said Mr Tan. 'The use of aversive dog training devices should only be chosen as a last resort and only by trained professionals or under the supervision of one.'
The 34-page document was developed by the Dog Training Workgroup, which comprises dog trainers, veterinarians, animal welfare groups and representatives from working dog units. Formed in Aug 2024, the workgroup is co-chaired by the AVS and Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
A prong collar (left) and electronic shock collar on display.
ST PHOTO: KELVIN CHNG
The advisory details the different types of electronic and prong collars, and the negative impact it can have on a dog's welfare. Other than causing direct distress such as pain, fear and anxiety, aversive tools may also exacerbate and worsen existing behaviour problems.
Dog trainers and vets alike laud the launch of the advisory.
Mrs Anna Koo, founder of dog training company Mutt Matters, said she usually handles cases of dogs who display reactive or aggressive behaviours. More often than not, the cases are linked to use of aversive devices.
Mrs Koo explained that aversive devices will typically suppress problematic behaviour such as growling, lunging or barking. However, these are ways that a dog expresses fear or discomfort.
'Over time, the dog will learn that it is not safe for it to communicate. So then you may start to get a silent, biting dog, which is far more dangerous,' said Mrs Koo, 48.
Singapore Veterinary Association president Teo Boon Han said the advisory was a good first step.
ST PHOTO: KELVIN CHNG
President of the Singapore Veterinary Association Teo Boon Han said that the advisory is a good first step in outreach and education, and he hopes there is no need to take further measures.
'Hopefully, with these collective efforts, we can work together, and we don't need to take that next step (towards more measures.) As a society, if there is internal motivation to change the way we treat animals, that's the best outcome,' said Dr Teo.
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