East Renfrewshire MP Paul Masterton has backed calls for “barbaric” electric shock dog collars to be banned by the UK Government.

Dogs Trust, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, has launched the #ShockinglyLegal campaign after a recent poll revealed around a third of people incorrectly believe that shock collars are already illegal.

Buying and using one of the devices to correct a dog’s behaviour is still lawful in the UK – but Mr Masterton is hoping change is on the way.

He said: “I fully support the Dogs Trust in calling for a ban on the use and sale of electronic shock collars.

“This is a hugely important issue for dog welfare and I hope my support will help to make a difference.”

Rachel Casey, director of canine behaviour and research at Dogs Trust, added: “Positive based methods, such as using rewards like food, are the most effective and kindest way to train your dog, so there is absolutely no need for owners to even consider the use of these devices.

“We urge everyone who loves dogs to consider the impact that using these kinds of devices can have on our four-legged friends and join with us in asking your local MP for an immediate ban on their sale and their use.”