The shock collar is introduced carefully once the dog shows a good understanding of the english words we have taught him. He will still be on leash when it is first introduced but the leash correction will be replaced with a stimulation from the collar. Care will be taken that collar is at an appropriate level so as not to frighten, startle, or hurt the dog. Every dog is different when it comes to what is the best level for obedience. My Akita is usually around level 35 (out of 100). My Pit Bull sits at 20 in a normal-distraction setting and my Shepherd Mix is barely over 12 and usually just needs the vibration to understand he did something wrong. I can't even feel it at 12 so the Shepherd mix is pretty sensitive.
I don't know what Sarge's level will be but I have a feeling it will be low at first then when he understands that it is coming from me it might go up a little bit.
Tomorrow we are going to work more on Down and on his Implied Stay. We are also going to introduce Placemat in the evening. Tomorrow morning is going to be a bit slow for the boarders because Saturday is my busiest day for weekly lessons, but the afternoon should be pretty open to give them some exercise, play and practice. So far I have been impressed with Sarge's work ethic, after all he is only a puppy!