[RGD.]

Barking collars and training collars are two separate things. I don't like either one but have used training collars with good results on my Beagle. I suggest :

1. Make sure that the device has a beep or tone warning.
2. Never shock without giving a warning and give him time to react to the tone.
3. Make sure the shock amount can be adjusted.
4. Use the lowest possible shock setting that gets his/her attention.
5. Reward when he/she obeys at the warning tone.
6. Never deviate from when a shock is given. During the training you cant let the infraction to occur without being there to correct. In other words, for example, you can't correct him in the evenings and weekends when you are home and allow him to charge the fence when you are not home during the day.

That said, I much prefer "clickers" to train with. I would practice basic commands with him until he obeys without question. Socialize him with other dogs and humans. Once he obeys your commands, then be at the fence with him when other dogs walk by, pet and calm him as they go by until he gets use to them and sees that they don't upset you when they go by. He is after all simply trying to protect his territory.

Good luck with it.

Ron