As a professional dog trainer with over 13 years of experience in Germany and the United States, I believe prong and shock collars are used far too easily as quick fixes for behavioral problems.

Dog training should be based on knowledge, patience, trust, and clear communication—not pain or fear. Even challenging dogs can be trained without relying on these tools.

Countries like Germany and Austria have already introduced restrictions on aversive training equipment. If it’s possible there, why not here?

That’s why I’ve developed the Washington Humane Dog Training Equipment Act, a proposal to ban the use and sale of prong and electronic shock training collars in Washington State.

My goal is to start in Washington and eventually bring this change nationwide.

Dogs deserve better. Let’s raise the standards of dog training.