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	Home What is static stimulation training? How static stimulation training works Electronic Pet Containment Electronic Bark Control Training/Remote Collars Advantages of static stimulation How do I know if static stimulation is right for me and my dog? Static Education FAQ’s Free Downloadable White Paper "The Facts About Modern Electronic Training Devices" What People Are Saying about Static Stimulation Contact Have a question, comment or tip? Click here to send us a message.		Static Education FAQ’s Q: Should I talk to my vet about using static stimulation to solve behavior issues? A: Before starting training to solve any behavior issues, you should consult your veterinarian to ensure the cause of the behavior problem is not clinical (i.e., bladder infection causing inappropriate urination). Q: Will static stimulation hurt my dog? A: No, the level of power used in static stimulation devices is designed to get attention or interrupt a behavior, not to cause pain. It is recommended to use as low level of stimulation as possible for the temperament of the dog and the situation (type of training and distractions). Most manufacturers use six to nine volt batteries in receiver collars and there is not enough power to cause pain or tissue damage. Q: Will static stimulation devices burn my dog's neck? A: As stated above, most devices are powered by a 6- or 9-volt battery and there is not enough power to cause burns. However, injuries that may resemble burns do occur if the collar is on too tight for too long, this is called pressure necrosis and can be aggravated by the presence of dirt and moisture. This is why it is important to follow most manufacturer recommendations to inspect the neck where the collar is worn looking for any redness or sores on a daily basis. Click here to view Dr. Peter Eeg discussing Pressure Necrosis. Click here to view a brochure about how you can protect your pet against injury. Q: How does static stimulation work? A: A static electrical stimulus is delivered to a dog's skin via a receiver collar that is worn about the neck. The stimulation travels between two contact points through the skin, which causes a tingling sensation that is designed to get attention or interrupt a behavior. Q: Will static stimulation work all by itself? A: The use of static stimulation is part of a training program whether it is containment, bark control, or remote training. Most manufacturers include detailed training instructions with their products; these should be followed to ensure proper use of the static stimulation products. A good example is a containment system; this is not a physical barrier but a psychological one. It is the training that keeps the dog in the yard; the collar only reminds them of the training that they received. Q: How long do you use the collar? A: The answer to this questions depends on how you use it, however, no static stimulation collar should be left on for more than 8 to 12 hours to give the skin a rest - check the skin where the contact points touch daily for any signs that the collar might be on too tight. The length of time the collar is needed depends on its use, for example, a containment collar needs to be worn whenever contained to remind your dog where its boundaries are but a remote trainer collar only needs to be worn when training or when the behavior you are working on occurs. Q: Why should I use static stimulation instead of a spray collar? A: Both forms of stimulation are very effective. Their use on a particular dog will depend on owner preference and its effectiveness on the dog for the behavior you are working on. For example, a spray collar may be very effective on a particular dog for barking but not enough of an interrupter to stop the dog from jumping up on visitors. Both are effective tools that one must consider for helping to solve problems that otherwise, may result in deteriorating the relationship with the dog. Q: Should I use static stimulation or hire a dog trainer or a behaviorist? A: All three options are excellent resources to use to help you solve any problems or improve the relationship you have with your dog and their use depends on you, your dog, and what you hope to achieve. Many times, a combination of the choices is what is needed. There is no one answer that solves the issues with all dogs all the time. Q: Is static stimulation inhumane? A: If used properly, static stimulation products are not in-humane. Q: If static stimulation is unpleasant, why would I want to use it on my dog? A: Static and spray are forms of punishment for a behavior that is unwanted (barking, escaping, disobedience, etc.) and, in many instances if used correctly, the need to use the stimulation or punishment reduces as the dog learns what is wanted. However, some owners are reluctant to use punishment initially and choose to use alternative techniques that rely on positive reinforcement. Each owner should try to find the best method or techniques that is effective for each individual dog and the skills of the owner. Q: What if static stimulation does not work for my dog? A: As stated above, there are many training techniques and methods, no one technique or method will work for all dogs and all situations. If you find static stimulation does not work for your dog, try a different technique or method. You may want to consult with a professional trainer or a behaviorist. Q: Are all static stimulation products the same? A: No, there are several manufacturers of static stimulation products (containment systems, bark control, and remote trainers), you should select based on features that are important to you, safety, and quality. Q: Where can I find more information about static stimulation products and where to buy? A: Click here for links to product information and on-line retailers. Q: How big or old does my dog need to be to use static stimulation? A: The size of the dog that can use static stimulation is really dependent on the size of the receiver collar and if the dog can comfortably wear the collar. As technology improves, the receiver collars are getting smaller and smaller. The best thing to do is to look at the size of the receiver collar and determine if your dog could comfortably wear it based on their body type. As far as age, the old adage "You can't teach an old dog new tricks" just isn't true. Like us, a dog is never too old to learn but puppies can be too young. A good rule of thumb is once a puppy can be trained to simple commands, like sit and stay, he is ready to learn with any type of training (too early and they do not have the attention span to pay attention and to learn). Q: Can the static stimulation hurt a person that is holding a dog? A: The static stimulation is delivered between the contact points and, unless your hand is touching both contact points, you will not feel the stimulation. Q: Can static stimulation devices be used safely in the water? A: Since the stimulation is delivered between the contact points, being wet does not increase the level of stimulation - in fact, with wet fur, the stimulation may be reduced. Q: I have an older dog with health issues, should I introduce static stimulation training? A: It is always a good idea to check with your veterinarian before initiating any training program to ensure that your pet is physically ready and to rule out any clinical reasons for a behavior issue. Your veterinarian knows your dog's health concerns the best and will know if any type of training will stress them too much. Q: Will a static stimulation collar attract lightning? A: There is nothing in a static stimulation collar that will attract lightning anymore than a pet without a collar. Q: What if I feel the level of stimulation is too strong or too weak? A: Most static stimulation products are adjustable. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to adjust the unit to fit your needs.

Static Education FAQ’s