A SOUTHEND dog trainer has been banned from international dog show Crufts after being accused of using “aversive” training techniques – including controversial “electric shock collars”.

Adam Spivey, founder of Southend Dog Training, and four of his colleagues were ordered to leave the event by Kennel Club bosses as they met with fans and dog fanatics. 

The Kennel Club, which organises Crufts, stated it told Mr Spivey to leave because of his use of “electric shock collars”, which the club has campaigned against for decades. 

However, Mr Spivey, 34, claims his company does not use shock collars and only uses “vibrating collars” to discipline the most difficult of cases. 

The owner of Southend Dog Training, which boasts more than a million followers on Facebook, claims he has received “disgusting abuse” following the incident. 

He said: “We have never used electric shocks. Vibrating collars have been used a handful of times, when a dog is absolutely brutal and out of control. They're an alternative to putting a dog down.“

In a statement on social media, a Southend Dog Training spokesman said: “We were never going to be welcomed with open arms. We gave away lots of clickers and books to everyone, met tons of fans and had selfies with them for a couple of hours straight.”

“The hate is nearly all from other dog trainers, most of whom have never read the book. The boycotting is quite frankly disgusting.”

A Kennel Club spokesman told the Echo they were made aware of Adam Spivey’s presence, stating they would not allow any trade stand to promote “aversive dog training methods” like ones claimed to have been advocated on Mr Spivey’s social media.

They said: “These ‘techniques’ work on the principle of applying an unpleasant stimulus to inhibit behaviour, and can include the use of electric shock collars, which we have campaigned against the use of for decades.

“We only endorse positive and motivational dog training methods and techniques which encourage responsible ownership, help owners to get the most out of their pet and support bond-building.”

“Our rules at Crufts also make it absolutely clear that we will not tolerate the sale, use or advertising of aversive training devices, including prong collars.”

The Kennel Club has said Mr Spivey will not be allowed to return to Crufts, as it is against “any form of aversive techniques”.