Diane, I also started using the same collar 3 weeks ago. It seemed I was so
pre-occupied trying to heel Akira that I was missing most of the lesson in class. Stick with it, it really does work to control the dog. I only use it if I anticipate distractive situations as she is good on routine walks. She seems to recognise the difference and knows I mean business. She now responds better to verbal commands on and off the collar because I can got her attention (LOOK or WATCH)in the excercise. Good Luck
Patty