A bark control collar can be utilized as a harmless and efficient training implement for putting a stop to your dog’s annoying or excessive barking. Following are the top three points I’m asked to clarify from pet owners interested in understanding how a bark collar works.

Bark Collars – Harmless or Harmful?

There has been much debate about whether bark collars are a harmful training device. In my opinion, bark collars are definitely humane.

There are many different kinds of bark collars (Aboistop and Citronella collars, Ultrasonic Devices and Shock Correction Bark Collars). For the scope of this article, I’ll focus on shock collars since the majority of controversy about safety and humaneness seems to center on this type of collar.

Static correction bark collars work by delivering a mild static shock to admonish your dog when she begins barking. Some collars detect your dog’s bark by using a vibration sensor, some bark collars use a microphone to recognize barking by sound; many collars use a combination of both sound and vibration.

The shock correction that your dog receives is akin to the jolt you get when you scuff across carpeting in your stocking feet and then come in contact with something metal. Another example would be when you take your clothing out of the dryer during the winter and your clothes have “static cling”. Startling? Yes. Painful? No.

When used properly, combined with uniform training, shock bark control collars can be a safe, humane way to stop excessive or annoying barking.

Which bark collar will work best for my dog?

There are some questions you should think about to determine the answer. As a dog owner, you know your pet best. Some things to consider when purchasing a bark collar:

  • Your dog’s age: Bark collars or dog training collars should never be used on a dog less than 6 months old.
  • Your dog’s size & weight: Your dog’s weight and collar size need to be considered when considering collars. A bark collar for little dogs won’t be effective for a large or stubborn dog.
  • Your dog’s nature: Is your dog extremely stubborn? Shy and  fearful? There are bark collars specially created for both of these extremes, as well as standard collars that will work with most dogs. A very shy dog may respond better to a Spray Bark Collar or Ultra Sonic device. Likewise, a stubborn dog will in all likelihood respond better to a shock collar especially created for big dogs.

Will a bark collar work on my dog?

The degree of success with bark collars is high, but you should keep in mind that they might not help in every circumstance. A good way to help promote success is to commit yourself to consistent training. Opt for the bark control collar that conforms best with your dog’s temperament and size, apply consistent training, and you will soon be enjoying bark free days.

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