Shock Collars for Rottweilers: 11 Do's and Don'ts (2023)

Shock collars are used for aversive training and are quite controversial tools as they cause discomfort or pain to the dog.

Some still believe that using these devices makes sense, but there is definitely a dos and don'ts list when it comes to shock collars.

Shock collars can work on Rottweilers, but proper use is key. Make sure the dog is healthy; Don't use them if they don't. Does the Rottweiler need this or might other methods work? Get expert advice; don't screw it up Use it for serious problems, not normal training. Make sure the collar is working properly and maintain it. Don't start high and don't use it near water.

Cesar Millan, The Dog Whisperer, is a leading proponent of using electric or electronic collars.

However, it points out that shock collars should only be used in serious situations and under the guidance of an expert.

This article takes a closer look at these guidelines and others, and also lists the best electric collars for Rottweilers.

How do shock collars work?

Shock collars send an electrical impulse to a dog when the collar is activated. There are three types of triggers:

1. The first trigger is manual and operated by the owner or handler of the dog. The owner or handler presses the button when they see unwanted behavior they want to correct.
   
2. The second trigger is the vibration of a dog's vocal cords, the sound of its bark, or a unique combination thereof that prevents the collar from being activated by sounds other than the dog's bark. This type of trigger is used to correct inappropriate barking habits.
   
3. The third trigger is a sensor that is triggered when a dog approaches it and works as a kind of containment. This trigger is used when dogs repeatedly escape their owner's property or enter an area they are not allowed to enter.

Shock collars do not necessarily provide a boost that feels like an electric shock. It could be more of a vibration or mild discomfort, but some can cause physical pain, even temporarily.

Normally, the intensity is adjustable on the shock collar.

The theory behind the shock collar technique is to apply an unpleasant stimulus in response to an unwanted behavior so that you associate the negative outcome with the negative behavior.

Alternatively, the purpose of the "shock" may be to get the dog's attention when he is fixated on something, redirecting his attention and allowing him to calm down.

Another feature of most shock collars is that they beep before the wrist.

This tone can be used with verbal cues, eliminating the need to wear the collar.

The beep or verbal command is now associated with the need to correct a behavior.

Do shock collars work on Rottweilers?

Electric collars work on Rottweilers, but only if used correctly. A Rottweiler is able to detect electrical impulses (even through its thick coat).

However, if they don't know what behavior the electrical stimulation should be associated with, all the shock collar does is punish them for no apparent reason.

As this is not the intent of a shock collar, it is imperative that proper training techniques are employed.

1. Check your Rottweiler's health before using a shock collar

Shock collars involve electrical impulses, so make sure your Rottweiler doesn't have any health issues that could be triggered or exacerbated by this electrical stimulation.

This requires a veterinary examination. Take your Rottweiler to the clinic and tell the vet that you are considering a shock collar.

Explain to them why you chose to go this route, and tell them you want to make sure your Rottweiler is fully healthy first.

Your veterinarian may recommend that you not use a shock collar, regardless of whether your rottweiler is unhealthy.

Listen to their arguments, ask what alternatives they would recommend, and make your decision from there.

2. Do not use a shock collar on your Rottweiler if he is not healthy.

There are two problems here. The first is that your Rottweiler's negative behavior may actually be a symptom of a health condition.

Chronic pain can lead to aggression. Brain tumors can be the cause of seemingly compulsive behaviors like barking, grabbing food, etc. as well as aggressiveness.

If your Rottweiler is misbehaving due to a medical condition, it should be treated with medication, not aversive training.

The second problem is that heart and brain disease can be triggered by even the smallest amount of electrical stimulation. Because the cardiovascular system and the nervous system are controlled by electrical impulses.

Shock collars can cause cardiac arrhythmia or even cardiac arrest in susceptible dogs and can cause seizures, paralysis, etc. in dogs with nervous system disorders.

3. Have your Rottweiler's behavior evaluated by a professional

Before you start using a shock collar, you should take your Rottweiler for a behavioral assessment.

As a layman, you might think you've reached the point where you have no options. They have tried every technique and nothing works.

You must remember that the internet is a tool and should not be used in place of real advice.

You may not be using the other techniques correctly, or you may be using the wrong methods.

A personal consultation with a professional behaviorist or trainer for your Rottweiler (all dogs are different) can reveal something you've never seen before, or they can give you advice based on real experience, not just theory.

4. Do not use a shock collar on your Rottweiler if it is not the correct technique.

If you can use positive reinforcement with your Rottweiler instead of a shock collar, why wouldn't you prefer that option? Or yet another aversive technique that is safer?

Make sure the shock collar is the only option before using it.

Also, your Rottweiler may not respond to the electric collar.

You will feel the electrical impulse, but it can make the behavior worse or be perceived as a separate problem from the behavior, no matter how you use it.

A behaviorist or trainer should be able to help you determine if this method is effective for your dog.

5. Get professional advice on which shock collar to buy and how to use it with your Rottweiler

The use of a shock collar should never be done lightly or without due consideration of the purpose and execution of this rather extreme method.

Never buy just the cheapest option. Let the experts advise you on which collar is best and, in particular, which one is best for your Rottweiler.

Then you have to ask them to teach you how to use it. This doesn't just refer to the actual mechanics of the device. You need to know things like:

• How to insert the shock collar
• When to dress and undress
• When and how much to increase the intensity of the shock
• When to trigger the impulse
• When You Shouldn't Trigger Desire

Shock collars should be a training technique, not just a punishment.

Your Rottweiler needs to learn that when he does this, momentum is being delivered, so he needs to stop doing this.

A Precaution for Containment Shock Collars

If you use a shock collar, make sure the Rottweiler knows that he will receive the correction if he jumps the fence or enters the stall, etc.

You don't want them wondering why they were surprised and thinking they can't go outside or near a fence.

If your Rottweiler runs away, he will also be surprised when he tries to come back, which can cause a lot of confusion.

A Warning for Bark Necklaces

Another subject to be discussed with a professional is the use of the electric collar to stop barking.

Barking can be a very serious problem. Complaints from neighbors can lead to legal action. You hear stories of people who have had to move or relocate their dog because of the barking.

However, Rottweilers are naturally guard dogs. This is one of their best qualities and one of the reasons they make excellent companions and pets.

You don't want your Rottweiler to start thinking that all barking is bad, because he might be hesitant to let you know about a threat to his home, family, and personal safety.

It can also cause your Rottweiler distress, as they will want to protect them and feel like they can't.

6. Do not use a shock collar for normal training with your Rottweiler

Never use a shock collar for normal obedience training or as a first training method. These machines are not an alternative to less extreme or positively aversive training techniques. Shock collars should be viewed more as a last resort.

Positive training methods are always the first choice and produce excellent results in most cases.

Some people use electric collars to train dogs for things like hunting or sport, but why would you when positive techniques would work just as well?

7. Use a shock collar to deal with your rottweiler's behavior problem

If your Rottweiler is in dire need of behavioral correction but other methods aren't working, the electric collar is an option.

It also goes from last resort to best option when the alternatives are to rehome or even euthanize your Rottweiler.

8. Test the shock collar before using it on your Rottweiler

Before using a new shock collar you should test it to make sure it is working properly.

A manufacturing defect or a problem caused by damage can lead to a series of failures.

The trigger could stick and prevent the discharge from stopping, or the mechanism could be triggered accidentally.

There may also be a gradation or peaking problem causing excessive electrical shock.

Many people choose to test the collar before putting it on their dog.

One person even reports that they tested the device every day to make sure it was working properly before putting it on their dogs.

9. Do not start your rottweiler at the highest shock collar intensity

Shock is a new sensation for your Rottweiler; Even the lowest intensity can be enough to get your attention.

If the lowest setting isn't working to get your Rottweiler out of his hyperfocused state or to get him to re-evaluate, you can try increasing the setting to the next level.

10. Fix the shock collar

Like any electrical device, it is essential to keep it in good working order. Things can go wrong, parts can break, circuits can be damaged, etc.

Always make sure the collar is in perfect condition. After all, your Rottweiler is your best friend, so you want to make sure everything is as safe as possible.

11. Do not use if your Rottweiler is or may get wet

Water is an electrical conductor, so you need to be very careful about moisture when using a shock collar. If your dog is wet, don't put the electric collar on him.

If your Rottweiler is a swimmer and is constantly wet, this may not be the right option, or you may need to block access to the pool while you deal with the behavioral problem.

You should also be careful with containment collars and bark collars if you leave them on your Rottweiler when you go outside.

When your Rottweiler is outdoors, it can rain, he can splash in the water bowl or go swimming (you should avoid access to swimming spots if you leave him with a protective collar).

Then, as they approach the boundary or shell, the resulting electrical impulse is amplified by the water in their fur and skin.

Another situation to consider is if the Rottweiler sweats a lot on hot days or during exercise. Sweat is a very good conductor of electricity, and dogs often sweat through their collars.

The 7 Best Shock Collars for Rottweilers

Before we move on to the list of the best collars for Rottweilers, you need to remember that your Rottweiler is different from all other Rottweilers. That's why it's important to seek expert help when choosing a shock collar.

However, you should not go to a specialist unprepared. Do your own research because you might know the dogs, but you are the best person who knows your dog.

Before we start our list, we thought it would be to your advantage to see just how powerful these collars really are on a dog, nay, a human!

Here, canine behaviorist.Blake Rodriguezmaximizes the first remote (and best tied) collar on our list. Convince yourself of the results!

Best overall (tie)

Educator E-Collar Dog collar with remote control

Best overall (tie)

PetSafe Ferntrainingshalsband: 300 yards

Best for big dogs

PetSafe Large Dog Remote Training Collar

best affordable necklace

Remote Dog Training Collar PATPET P301300M

best remote necklace

PATPET Hundeerziehungshalsband

best sports network

SportDOG Brand Remote Trainer 425X

best bark necklace

Collar SportDOG No Bark 10

final thoughts

Many people have opinions about shock collars and the safety or humanity of using them.

Still, there are situations where shock collars can be used properly to prevent a dire situation from getting worse.

As electric collars can harm your Rottweiler, it is imperative that you follow the guidelines presented in this article to make your dog's experience as safe as possible.