We all love dogs. However, excessive barking can really be bothersome, not only for the owner but for neighbours as well. And while you think that dogs bark because well, they're dogs, there are ways you can train your dog to "chill" for a while.
If you have a puppy that's old enough for puppy bark collars, it's best to start letting it adjust to such a collar. Here's what you need to know about the various collar options and how they work.
What's a Bark Collar and How Does It Work?
A bark collar is a special collar for your dog that helps correct their behaviour when they bark. It's meant to be worn for short periods, and you don't have to manually activate it for it to work.
These collars work by administering a negative stimulus when your dog barks. The majority of anti-bark collars automatically provide stimulation upon detecting barking, eliminating the need for constant monitoring by the owner. However, some collars require manual operation through a handheld remote, where the stimulation is activated only when the handler presses the remote button.
This may be an issue if there's no one present to control the remote or if the handler is out of the collar's effective range. Certain bark collars gradually increase the stimulation intensity until the dog ceases barking, while others allow for manual adjustment of the stimulation level to begin at a point where the dog will respond.
Just like any other e-collar, puppy bark collars can irritate your dog's skin if left on for a long time. Never leave your dog or puppy to wear it for longer than 8 hours. In fact, you can remove it even earlier than that. If your dog is younger than 6 months, it's best to wait to use it till it's older. Your dog shouldn't wear it when it sleeps and if it has any cognitive decline due to old age which can cause excessive barking, it's best to avoid such collars.
Types of Bark Collars
Static Bark Collars
Static bark collars are the most common and also one of the most effective. They release a low-level shock when your dog barks, with adjustable levels of stimulation and flexible correction modes. They're effective for nonstop barking, provide fast results, and work best for large and stubborn dogs. They aren't recommended for sensitive or small dogs, and should not be worn for long periods.
Vibration Anti-Bark Collar
The vibration anti-bark collar provides a humane alternative to shock collars, using sensation to deter barking behaviour. It works by delivering a vibrating pulse rather than a static shock to discourage barking. Some vibration collars offer adjustable stim levels for customization.
The benefits of vibrating bark collars include effective communication with your dog, especially for sensitive, elderly, or hearing-impaired canines.
On the downside, prolonged use may cause skin irritation, and dogs with thick fur may not feel the vibration. Additionally, stubborn dogs may not respond to the vibrating stimulus and continue barking.
Sound No Bark Collar
This collar is designed to use sound to distract your dog. It emits either an ultrasonic or beeping sound to deter barking. The ultrasonic sound cannot be heard by humans but is bothersome to dogs. The beeping sound redirects your dog's attention. The high-frequency sound of ultrasonic bark collars is inaudible to humans. The stimulation may be irritating to your dog, but it is proven to be safe and ear-friendly. It is also a good alternative for those hesitant to use static collars. It's not suitable for deaf or hearing-impaired dogs. Additionally, it may not be effective for anxious dogs.
Spray Collar
Spray collars work by emitting a burst of scented or unscented spray. The sudden release of mist in front of your dog’s nose serves as a distraction from barking. These collars effectively deter nuisance barking and are harmless to your pet. They are suitable for all breeds, particularly small dogs.
Some dogs may not be bothered by the spray, leading them to bark in order to lick the mist. Additionally, some dogs may have allergies to the spray ingredients.
Are They Worth It?
These collars are proven to be efficient in controlling excessive barking behaviour in dogs. They stop the need for constant monitoring, ensuring that the collar is always working effectively. Additionally, some models are designed to detect various vocalizations, such as howling and whining, providing a comprehensive training solution. It's crucial to properly fit the collar around your dog's neck to guarantee that the stimulus is delivered accurately when needed.
Are They Safe?
If you're looking to get such a collar, you should be at peace knowing that they're not intended to completely eliminate your dog's barking. Barking serves as a form of communication for dogs, in addition to their body language. Forcing them to stop barking is just like prohibiting a person from speaking ever again.
