Having read posts for and against, I still cannot condone the use of an e_collar. I will admit I have only ever raised puppies not rescue dogs some of which I understand do come with additional baggage, sorry but the blame lies with the original owners. Antics that seem comical as a puppy, or lack of socialisation that becomes an uncontrollable problem as an adult dog unfortunately they end up in rescue centres for someone else to sort out.

True I haven't been in that position having to deal with dogs with behavioral issues and I have the utmost respect and admiration for people who do help these dogs.

May be we've been lucky with all our dogs they have responded well to training, it could also be that their behaviour although acceptable to us wouldn't be for someone else.

Duke did chase the vacuum cleaner and lawn mower, I could have thought how cute at 8 weeks old playing with the vacuum, I didn't, out came the treats and training began. Needless to say the cleaning didn't, well not properly.

Good Friday I had to walk through a field full of sheep with Duke, he noticed them and they noticed us but he didn't pull towards them. He was on an extension lead. I don't take chances.

Haltis' are not my chosen method for heelwork, this was the type I was recommended by the training club. I did try it, end of. To the layman they look like a muzzle, not the best image for a SBT to look at though he's muzzled. If they haven't been adjusted properly they can block the dogs vision. I could be wrong but I have been brought up to believe a dogs snout (muzzle) is very sensitive. I am not condemning them, they can be a very effective training aid, all I am saying is they are not my preferred method.

Sue