I use my E collar as a Hearing aid , My lab knows his comands and the he listens better if he thinks I may shock him if he ignores comands and training . Most good lab puppys are too smart for there own good but are bull headed . I trained with love , a firm hand , a long check cord and dog treats .I only used the collar to renind him not punish him . Dogs are ruined with excessive use of the collar. Most lab puppys will try to please you so go slow and don't expect too much too soon !