Singapore has launched a new workgroup to review dog training methods and potentially restrict shock and prong collars in favour of gentler, rewards-based approaches.
KEY POINTS
IN SIMPLE TERMS
Singapore is setting up a group to look at how dogs are trained and whether harsh devices like shock collars should be allowed. They want trainers to use kinder methods that reward good behaviour instead of punishing bad behaviour.
WHY IT MATTERS
WHERE DO YOU STAND?
Should shock and prong collars be banned or heavily regulated in dog training, even if some trainers believe they can be used safely?
👍 👎 Vote ↓Singapore takes a big step to improve dog training with a new group formed by AVS and SPCA.
On 22 August 2024, Singapore launched a new Dog Training Standards Workgroup.
The Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) and the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) are leading this group.
It includes key stakeholders such as dog trainers, veterinarians, animal welfare groups, and working dog unit representatives.
The aim is to make dog training better in Singapore.
Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State, announced the new group at a public seminar on dog aggressive behaviour.
About 200 people, including dog trainers and pet owners, attended the seminar.
The Workgroup will promote the Least Intrusive, Minimally Aversive (LIMA) approach to dog training.
This means using the kindest methods first when training dogs.
According to the National Parks Board, “Studies have provided evidence that rewards-based training methods may be just as effective or more effective in training the same behaviours without the associated risks.”
This shows that being kind to dogs during training can work well.
The Workgroup will look at different training devices, including shock collars and prong collars.
They will suggest rules for using these devices.
The National Parks Board stated, “The Workgroup will also review positions on the use of various training devices, including shock and prong collars.”
This review aims to ensure the safety and well-being of dogs during training.
The Workgroup will work on teaching the public about safe dog training methods.
They want to tell people about the risks of using harsh training devices.
In April 2023, talks showed that many people don’t know how to use shock and prong collars safely.
The Workgroup hopes to change this by sharing more information.
| Goal | Action |
|---|---|
| Improve dog training | Promote LIMA approach |
| Ensure safety | Review training devices |
| Educate public | Share information on safe methods |
This is not the first time Singapore has worked to improve animal care.
In 2020, AVS set up the Rehoming and Adoption Workgroup (RAWG).
RAWG focused on raising the standards of helping free-roaming dogs in Singapore find homes.
In January 2022, RAWG shared guidelines for dog rehoming and adoption.
These guidelines also covered dog training and behaviour.
In December 2022, AVS started the AVS-Accredited Certified Dog Trainer (ACDT) Scheme.
Over 40 trainers have joined this scheme so far.
This shows that many trainers want to improve their skills and follow good practices.
AVS plans to look at how other countries handle dog training rules.
Different countries have different ways of managing training devices like shock collars.
The National Parks Board emphasised, “AVS is committed to approaching the regulation of shock collars with careful consideration and thorough preparation.”
This means they will think carefully before making new rules.
There is still a debate about using punishment-based devices such as shock and prong collars for dog training.
Some trainers think these devices can help in certain cases if used correctly.
Others believe these devices can harm dogs and should not be used.
The Workgroup will consider all views before making suggestions.
The new training standards could lead to better care for pets in Singapore.
More people might choose kinder training methods for their dogs.
This could make dogs happier and better behaved.
The work of this group could help make Singapore a more pet-friendly place.
Singapore’s new Dog Training Standards Workgroup aims to make dog training kinder and safer for all.
Should shock and prong collars be banned or heavily regulated in dog training, even if some trainers believe they can be used safely?
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