A bark control collar can be utilized as a harmless and effective training implement for putting a stop to your dog’s nuisance or excessive barking. Following are the most often asked points I’m asked to clarify from people interested in understanding how a bark collar works.
Bark Collars - Harmless or Harmful?
There has been much debate about the humaneness of training with a no bark collar. In my view, bark collars are definitely humane.
There are many different kinds of bark collars (Citronella or Spray Collars, Ultrasonic Devices and Shock Correction Bark Collars). For the intention of this article, I’ll center on shock collars since most of the controversy about safety and humaneness seems to concentrate on this type of collar.
Shock collars use a mild static electric shock to correct your dog when she begins barking. Some collars sense barking by using a vibration sensor, some collars utilize a microphone to recognize barking from sound; many collars use a combination of both sound and vibration.
The static correction received is akin to the jolt you feel when you walk across carpeting in your socks and then touch something metal. You have probably experienced this when you take your clothing out of the dryer during the wintertime and your clothes have “static cling”. Startling? Yes. Painful? No.
With proper use, combined with uniform training, shock bark collars can be an effective, humane way to stop excessive or annoying barking.
Which bark control collar will work best for my dog?
There are some things you should ask yourself to determine the answer. As a dog owner, you know your dog best. Some things to consider when purchasing a no bark collar:
- Your dog’s age: Shock collars or dog training collars should never be used on a puppy less than 6 months of age.
- Your dog’s size & weight: Your dog’s weight and neck size should be considered when looking at collars. A bark collar for little dogs will not work well for a bigger or stubborn dog.
- Your dog’s temperament: Is your dog very difficult to train? Shy and fearful? There are bark collars designed for both of these extremes, as well as standard collars that will work for most dogs. A very shy dog may respond better to a Spray Bark Collar or Ultrasonic system. On the other hand, a stubborn dog will generally respond better to a bark control collar specifically made for large breeds.
Do bark control collars always work?
The degree of success for bark collars is high, but its important to keep in mind that bark devices may not work in each situation. A good way to help promote success is to make a commitment to consistent training. Opt for the bark control collar that conforms best with your dog’s personality and size, use consistent training, and you’ll soon be enjoying bark free days.
Posted under Dogs General, dog training
This post was written by admin on July 11, 2009
