My 27-month-old male Doberman is a little sloppy with minding when he doesn't have the collar on. He is not as quick to respond. Any ideas?

Cindy,

I have a 27 month old intact male Doberman. My problem is probably not breed specific, but I mention it knowing you have a history with them. He is a very dominant boy. I bought your e-collar DVD and an e-collar when he was 8-months. I can not tell enough people who have stubborn dogs how great a tool this can be. Using Ed's #1 through #10 correction rule, I can tell you that a #10 correction doesn't phase him. But there is something about the tingle of a nick that gets his attention. This is where my problem lies. I rarely have to use the remote if his collar is on. Then he is an unbelievable dog. Without the collar he still minds, but he is a little sloppy. Not as quick to respond, and sometimes I can tell he gives a brief thought to challenging me. He knows better, as I never give in, but I can see the wheels turning.

I am pretty sure that initially I got in a hurry and did not have him wear the collar on and off enough before I started the training with it. He is very smart and he figured out that it was the collar. So! Any ideas? I feel as Ed does, that when out, the collars are are great leash, but with his mischievous demeaner, I would love him to always respond immediately to my commands.

Thanks,
Michael