Having watched a few different clubs training in protection, I have some questions regarding the use of e-collars in this training. Do many trainers use the e-collar to send the dog to the decoy? For PP and PSD training, is it better for the dog to be motivated by the actions of the decoy, or by the command of the handler? I would think there might be times when a service dog is working the streets, when the handler may not be in a position to know exactly what is going on with a suspect, and may have to rely on the dog's good training and judgment to handle a situation. So is it beneficial for the dog to rely strictly on the handler's direction? What should be the primary motivation for the dog in his training? I've heard the philosophy that comes from strict obedience, where the handler wants to acquire power over the dog through the use of the e-collar. I know this philosophy has its place, but is this philosophy beneficial in "protection/police" training in the deployment of a dog? Is the goal to have the dog unaffected by the behavior of the decoy, and only affected by the direction of his handler? Or is the goal for the dog to behave according to the actions of the decoy? I understand the use of the e-collar for a call-off, but am confused about its use for sending the dog toward the decoy.

The polite thing to say is that there are no foolish questions.

With that said - only a fool would use a e-collar to force a dog to a helper. This is not worth even discussing. I am closing this thread.