The choice of which training system to use is determined by several factors. The behavior that needs to be corrected should be the first factor considered. If barking is the problem, choose an automatic bark control system that is triggered by vibration or sound, which may be more effective because the correction is virtually instantaneous with the bark. Behaviors such as digging, running away or not coming when called can best be corrected using a remote control unit.
Timing is everything.
The correction must occur during or immediately after the unwanted behavior for the dog to form an association between the behavior and the correction. Below that age, the pup's nervous system is not fully developed, and the pulse, although physically harmless, may frighten him without teaching him the connection between the pulse and the undesirable behavior. This fear could also lead to training difficulties in the future. Electronic pulse-type units have two probes that must touch the dog's skin in order to deliver the correction. Collars are often too loose around the radius of a small-necked dog to allow sufficient contact for the collar to work consistently.