The consultation on draft regulations for a ban on electric shock training devices in Wales will close on 27 May, H&C has learned.

In June last year, the Welsh rural affairs minister Elin Jones announced she intends to ban the use of the electric shock training devices, including collars, mats and leads.

The formal second consultation will decide what sort of ban will be applied and how it is to be implemented.

Mrs Ryder has met with representatives from the Kennel Club and renowned canine behaviourist and trainer Carolyn Menteith at the Assembly to discuss the issue and how effective legislation could be drafted.

"Positive methods train dogs quickly, easily and reliably, with absolutely no fear, pain, or damage to the relationship between the owner and the dog," said Mrs Ryder.

"There is no justification for electric shock training devices and I hope anyone with an interest will make their views heard as part of this consultation.

"If the most highly trained dogs, such as assistance dogs and police and armed forces dogs, can be trained without the use of electric shock training devices, why can't all dogs?”

Caroline Kisko of the Kennel Club said: "We are delighted that the Minister has issued these draft regulations and we encourage dog owners in Wales to respond. Pain and fear are not humane methods by which to train a dog. There are many effective positive training methods which are reward based. These methods train dogs quickly, easily and reliably, with absolutely no fear, pain, or damage to the relationship between the owner and the dog. There is no justification for electric shock training devices."