Mondou’s removal of aversive collars: everything you need to know

This text is intended to help you with the removal of aversive collars at Mondou by providing clear answers to the many questions that may arise. It was written by Isabelle Borremans, a dog trainer, dog behaviour consultant and member of Mondou's CABEA.

What is an aversive collar?

An aversive collar is a tool designed to punish the animal and interrupt inappropriate behaviour. When we talk about an aversive collar, we are referring to the choke collar and all electrostatic (electric), vibration, citronella, air and ultrasonic collars for invisible fences.

Possible risks associated with the use of aversive collars

• Aversive collars act as a punishment and not as a consequence of undesirable behaviour. In this case, the punishment is intended to cause physical and psychological pain to inhibit the unwanted behaviour.
• Aversive collars address the animal's action and not its emotional state, which can amplify the problem.
• The inability to learn an alternative behaviour (punishment never teaches an alternative behaviour).
• The risk of use without respecting all the manufacturer's recommendations (weight, time, intensity and duration).
• Risk of negative association that creates a new and more serious problem.
• Possibility of developing anxiety or even aggression in the animal.
• Aversive collars can cause physical injury to the animal. For example: burns, significant increase in heart rate, injury to the trachea and oesophagus, and neck pain (muscular or even articular)

Mondou's position on aversive collars

Mondou has been passionate about animals since 1938. It's clear that the knowledge and care of animals has evolved since the company was founded. Mondou wants to share its competence and help families in their daily lives with their canine companions.

Mondou is committed to perfecting its knowledge while sharing it with its employees, who are just as passionate about pets and animals as the local company itself. 

Creation of Mondou's CABEA

Mondou created the CABEA (Comité aviseur bien-être animal) in 2020 with the best representatives for the animal cause. The CABEA includes 5 professionals in their respective fields. The CABEA includes 3 veterinarians and 2 animal behaviourists.

I myself am a member of this committee as a dog trainer and dog behaviour consultant. Although the CABEA is new, we are fortunate to be able to share our knowledge and to be heard on many subjects concerning animal welfare with the Mondou team.

Why removing the aversive collars at Mondou

Simply because we can and must do better. We want to be able to adapt to the different personalities of each dog and the needs of the pet guardians. We have all the resources to better direct pet families to more personalized products and advice.

The reality of Québec families

For the past 15 years, I have been accompanying thousands of Quebec households who are experiencing difficulties with their dogs' behaviour. I am touched by the sensitivity of people towards their dog best friend. It is also true that certain situations often take on unbearable proportions and that the feeling of incompetence felt by families is difficult. 

Many pet guardians have opted for products such as aversive collars. However, in my 15 years in the business, I have never met a family that has used these products without hesitation. Pet owners in Quebec are very sensitive to their approach and will look for all possible solutions to restore harmony with their dog.

However, the aversive collars have not always had the desired effect and the families are left even more helpless. This is why I practice my profession knowing that each family and each dog is different.

The real change is not in the products used or not, but rather in being understanding and realistic while adapting to each situation.

Existing alternatives

Aversive collars are usually used to resolve barking behaviour or to control a dog on a leash. Unfortunately, aversive collars are not very suitable and quickly become ineffective after some time using them. Never hesitate to ask for help, your veterinarian is well placed to make recommendations to a dog trainer and dog behaviour consultant

Every dog has its own personality and reality. It's important to offer products and advice adapted to your dog. At Mondou, we have products that can help you avoid choosing an aversive collar.

In all Mondou stores and on its website, you can find many interactive toys to reduce your pet's boredom, which is often the cause of undesirable behaviour, natural products to reduce emotions linked to stress and, finally, educational products to positively teach appropriate behaviour.

If you have any questions or need support and help concerning your dog's well-being, do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian or Isabelle Borremans's team at Complexe Animalier Accès Vet Blainville.

Read our article on Choosing the right collar, harness and leash for your dog

Read our article on Barking dogs: Tips and tricks for understanding and intervening

Read our article on How to handle your dog's unpredictable reactions to strangers

Watch these 2 educational videos with Isabelle Borremans (only in French):
Atelier éducatif Mondou : l'aboiement
Atelier éducatif Mondou : le renforcement positif