10/16/2026
Po is a very bold teen Akita with strong opinions about what he'd like to be doing rather than listening to cues. After months of work, pure positive reinforcement only got us so far. He'd work for food when it suited him, and would otherwise ignore input.
We recently started ecollar work, introducing it at low levels and spent time building positive associations. He now works at levels that he responds well to, and his body language stays relaxed and engaged. No negative stress signals, avoidance, no dreading the collar.
The results have been measurable in the first few weeks. We're working on his pulling on leash, his ability to check-in, and responds to cues he used to blow off. And he's no longer bullying his big sister relentlessly.
The foundation we built with food and play still matter. The ecollar gives Po clear feedback and interrupts the toxic behaviors. Every dog is an individual, and for some of them a balanced approach is what makes training finally click.
