I am addicted to his shows too. I went to his seminar last month when he came to town. I don't agree with all of his methods, (choke chains & similar) BUT he did mention at his seminar that he will use what the owner uses and is comfortable with. He will remove collars and other misc. equipment if he feels the dog is being harmed or injured. He prefers a "show" lead/collar or NOTHING on a dog (trained of course). He was very personable and shared how he got his start......he was a DOG WALKER and still considers himself one. He also said that he didn't feel there was anything special about what he does, he just learned from his father and other extended family members that a dog is a dog.... NOT a human and if you watch them closely enough you learn what they need verses what HUMANS want.