International Institute for Canine Ethics (IICE) Position Statement on the Use of Electronic (Shock) Collars

Introduction

The International Institute for Canine Ethics (IICE) is committed to upholding the highest standards of welfare, empathy and ethical practice in the care and training of dogs. As a leading voice in the promotion of science-based, compassionate methodologies, we categorically oppose the use of electronic collars, including but not limited to shock, static, remote, and anti-bark collars, in any context involving canine learning, behaviour modification or rehabilitation.

Position

Shock collars and similar aversive devices are incompatible with IICE’s core values of empathy, ethical responsibility and evidence-based practice. These devices inflict pain, discomfort or fear with the intent to suppress behaviours. Such methods violate the principles of humane learning and compromise a dog’s psychological and emotional well-being.

Ethical and Scientific Basis

1. Welfare Concerns: Repeated studies have demonstrated that the use of shock collars can result in heightened stress, anxiety, fear, learned helplessness and the breachst between dogs and caregivers.

2. Ineffectiveness and Risk: While shock collars may temporarily suppress behaviour, they do not address the underlying emotional or cognitive causes of unwanted behaviours. This increases the likelihood of behavioural relapse, escalation or redirected aggression.

3. Positive Alternatives: Science has consistently validated the effectiveness of positive reinforcement, desensitisation, and counter-conditioning as safer, more ethical, and more sustainable methods of behaviour change and rehabilitation.

Cognitive and Emotional Impact

From a cognitive-behavioural perspective, dogs are sentient beings capable of complex emotional experiences. The use of pain or fear as a teaching tool not only undermines their emotional safety but can inhibit cognitive function and learning, ultimately compromising the dog's ability to think and learn.

IICE Standards and Expectations

All IICE members are bound by a strict Code of Ethics that explicitly prohibits the use or endorsement of any equipment that causes physical, emotional or psychological distress, including shock collars. Use of such devices is considered a breach of ethical conduct and may result in revocation of membership.

Call to Action

We call upon all canine professionals, welfare organisations and legislative bodies to reject the use of electronic collars and to promote public education around humane, evidence-based alternatives. We urge regulators to move towards legal prohibition of these devices in alignment with modern animal welfare science.

Conclusion

Dogs deserve care, guidance and rehabilitation that honours their cognitive and emotional complexity. Trust, not fear, must be the foundation of every human-canine relationship. The International Institute for Canine Ethics (IICE) remains steadfast in our advocacy for ethical, force-free practices that uplift both dogs, their guardians and the professionals who serve them.