As for bolting out the door, one possibility is to put in a door that can swing shut on its own. Alternatively, we can put in a double door system, but I think the first option is easier.

As for recall training (come when called), here is a good list of techniques from the ASPCA-
http://www.aspca.org/Pet-care/virtual-pet-behaviorist/dog-articles/teaching-your-dog-to-come-when-called

Shock collars are risky, unreliable, and increases stress in our dogs. Many dogs still escape or do not come back even when the shocks are applied. Personally, I think the unreliable “results” are really not worth the associated risks.

1. Shock collars increase stress levels in dogs in most instances.
2. The only case where shock collars do not increase stress is in very simple touch-aversion type training where there is a very direct and clear relationship between the behavior and pain stimulus. However, even in this case, very accurate timing and use is required.
3. Shock collars are very risky. A dog may wrongly associate the pain stimulus with the surrounding objects, people, or environment, rather than to his own behavior. This could result in aggression towards people and even more behavioral issues down the road.

Here is an article which summarizes many of the scientific studies that have been conducted on shock collars.

Finally, off-leash recall is *never* 100% reliable no matter what equipment or technique we choose to use. Shock collars are not 100% reliable – not even close. Stories abound of dogs escaping from yards with an invisible fence.

Given the increase in stress, behavioral risks, and unreliability of shock collars, it is *not* something that I would use on any of my dogs, nor would I recommend its use to anyone else. As you have pointed out, good exercise can be had on-leash. I walk my dogs on-leash (with a very secure no-slip collar and secure leash), and they get off-leash exercise in fully enclosed spaces. I also do recall training with my dogs.

Are off-leash dogs happier than on-leash dogs?

Wiley is the “Perfect dog”. Well almost…. He is a hit or miss off a leash. There are times while jogging in Central Park, I took the leash off and he stayed by my side the entire time. Lately, I have been hesitant because he does take off running and I chase him for about 30min. He doesn’t seem to listen when I call him. Realistically, he never really has when we are at the dog park, beach, or when he finds a way out of the house. Now I moved to a new house where I don’t have a fence and worried I may end up losing him. I have considered getting a sport shock collar with a GPS. The GPS to track him and the shock collar to stop him before he gets hit by a car.
I have read mixed reviews on e-collars, leaving me very confused. Should I get one?
Unless someone can suggest a better option then I think this may be my option? I am all ears.
Ultimately, I want what is best for both of us.

Huskies have such a desire to run, stopping this behaviour through shock or pain seems like it would cause more mental problems than anything else.

Couldn’t agree with you more.

I learned the hard way that independent and stubborn breeds do not respond well to pain techniques. They will just fight back more and become stressed. It is certainly not what I want for my dogs.

Btw. you have a very fun blog. Great lounge room pictures. Looks like a professional team went in there looking for some super secret materials. Would be great in a spy movie.

I know some people advocate using shock collars for this, but I just don’t believe it could work. Huskies have such a desire to run, stopping this behaviour through shock or pain seems like it would cause more mental problems than anything else.

I’ve also heard stories and seen videos of Huskies completely ignoring the shock. There’s the movie on youtube of the Husky that had an invisible fenceline around it’s yard, it ran straight through it, and ended up in a supermarket miles away stealing dog treats.