04/22/2026
This post is not intended to deepen the divide between training methods or opinions — honestly, technology these days is so vast that Two Dads Dog Training is more interested in sustainable, positive methods than in learning about e-collar innovations. We certainly are not promoting the use of these tools either. We have a solid understanding of classical conditioning and will share a quick post outlining our concerns about e-collars.
Last night, Michael and I were walking the streets of our neighborhood when we saw a dog that had been let out by its owners to reach the sidewalk we were on.
The dog noticed us, and soon its collar got lit as a beep went off -- its owner had a transmitter in her hand. She had pressed a button many times while the dog remained unresponsive to the cues. Because it was our time to enjoy an impromptu urban hike, we didn't stop to inspect the equipment or inquire about the scene. We did wonder, though, how a faulty classical conditioning might be the reason for modern dog aggression in the USA.
We also wondered why the dog was allowed to reach the sidewalk in the first place, and then why he was e-collared. Wouldn't it be easier to keep him in the property the whole time? Can you relate?
The illustration below highlights how certain tools can be problematic in today's dog ownership. We've also seen this happen with collar tugs when a dog sees a dog being walked on the other side of the street.
If you have any questions about classical conditioning, schedule a free 20-minute phone consultation with Two Dads Dog Training today.