Dog training - use of devices: report

6. Conclusions and Recommendations

The following recommendations are intended to maximise the welfare of pet dogs in Scotland in regard to training and the use of training devices other than handheld remote-controlled devices (e-collars). SAWC previously assessed that the use of e-collars in the training of dogs in Scotland should be prohibited.

1) Use of aversive devices

The Commission found limited peer reviewed literature to evidence that the aversive training devices listed in our questionnaire were beneficial.

1. We do not currently make any formal recommendations to the Scottish Ministers regarding legislation or guidance for specific training devices (other than e-collars).

2. Use of aversive training devices can be associated with welfare harm, but until further evidence becomes available, SAWC cannot give robust evidence-based guidance on which specific training devices (other than e-collars) should or should not be used.

3. SAWC considers that because aversive training devices have the potential to be harmful, welfare safeguards should be put in place to ensure that dog training is beneficial rather than harmful. As a minimum, a welfare-oriented system of training is required.

4. We do however support public education and engagement with welfare safeguards and continue to strongly encourage the use of reward-based methods of training.

2) Regulation of dog training

Given the acknowledged potential for welfare harm through misuse or abuse of certain training devices, it is concerning that professional dog trainers and behaviourists are unregulated and are not legally required to understand, or have training in, animal welfare, learning theory or the harm/benefit analysis of aversive devices.

SAWC recommends that the Scottish ministers introduce legislation that require dog trainers/behaviourists to follow a regulatory framework.

3) Reward-based training methods

Reward-based training methods are effective and are associated with limited or no welfare risks. Other methods and training devices, such as aversive methods referenced in this report, are open to misuse or abuse and therefore have the potential to cause harm.

SAWC recommends that welfare oriented, reward-based training methods should be advocated in any future Code of Practice/Guidance for the welfare of dogs.