[Soundy]

^Don't forget, the term "e-collar" is applied to two different types of collars, too: there's the "shock" type that gives a small zap, and the type that simply vibrates two small prongs against the neck.

But you're right, even the zap type gets a bad rap because it tends to be abused - no one training tool is the right tool for every dog, every situation, and every trainer.

Classic example: most trainers are vehemently against the use of retractable leashes under any circumstances for a variety of reasons, and I regularly hear stories trotted out of dogs who got hit by cars because the leash let them run out in the street before their handler could lock it down...

And then last spring we were at a seminar that included, among other guest speakers, an obedience trainer with decades and numerous championships under his belt, and he swears by the retractables *WHEN DOING HIS OBEDIENCE TRAINING*, because as he put it, normal leashes aren't long enough, and if a dog isn't leashed, he isn't under your control.

Again, right tool for the job when used properly, and it won't be the best tool for every instance.