Thank you for contacting me about electronic collars (e-collars).

As a strong advocate for animal welfare, I am committed to upholding the UK’s strong history of commitment to the well-being of animals. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), in alignment with this vision, has been examining evidence surrounding the use of e-collars to control dogs. While I note concerns about a potential ban, it is important to acknowledge that Defra commissioned research showed that many users of e-collars were found to be not using them properly or in compliance with the manufacturers’ instructions. What deeply concerns us is not only the potential misuse leading to unnecessary harm but also that e-collars can redirect aggression or generate anxiety-based behaviour in pets, making underlying behavioural and health problems worse. In addition, the Government’s consultation on this received more than 7,000 responses.

Following this research, as well as engagement with trainers, behaviourists, e-collar manufacturers, the animal welfare sector, veterinary and dog keeping organisations, as of the 1st of February 2024, the Government will ban training collars in England that can deliver an electric shock to a cat or dog by a hand-held remote-controlled device. I understand that this ban will not extend to collars which use alternative stimuli, such as noise, spray or vibration. Invisible fencing systems which help animals quickly learn to stay within a boundary and have welfare benefits, such as keeping pets away from roads, will also still be permitted.

While I appreciate that you may be disappointed by this decision, I want to assure you that the draft Animal Welfare (Electronic Collars) Regulations 2023 were developed after considering a broad range of factors. These regulations were informed by robust academic research, Defra-commissioned studies, public consultation responses, and direct engagement with trainers, behaviourists, e-collar manufacturers, the animal welfare sector, veterinary and dog keeping organisations.

Using a prong collar to inflict suffering on an animal could lead to prosecution under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. Under this Act, it is an offence either to cause any animal unnecessary suffering or to fail to provide for its welfare. Anyone who is cruel to an animal may face an unlimited fine or be sent to prison for up to five years, or both. Further, I understand that anyone failing to ensure that their animal’s welfare needs are met may face an unlimited fine or be sent to prison for up to six months, or both.

Let us remember that our nation's commitment to animal welfare remains unwavering. The Animal Welfare Act 2006 had already made it is an offence either to cause any animal unnecessary suffering or to fail to provide for its welfare, therefore meaning the use of a prong collar to inflict suffering on an animal could lead to prosecution Further, I understand that anyone failing to ensure that their animal’s welfare needs are met may face an unlimited fine or be sent to prison for up to six months, or both.

I am aware that reward-based training, which includes the use of things that dogs like or want, such as toys, food, and praise, is widely regarded as the preferred form of training dogs. An incorrect training regime can have negative effects on a dog’s welfare and pet owners must ensure that any training aids are used appropriately. The code of practice for the welfare of dogs supports positive reward training techniques for dogs. The code also advises people to seek out professional advice to identify and discuss any behaviour problems and the best training options for their dog. For more information you may want to visit the following site:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/code-of-practice-for-the-welfare-of-dogs

Thank you again for all those who took the time to contact me.