Pet Supplies Tips :: Dog Bark Collar
Dog Bark Collar: Is a Bark Collar a Good Way to Train Your Dog?
Are you considering purchasing a shock, ultrasonic or citronella dog bark collar? Wondering which is the most humane or dog-friendly? To learn more about each style of barking collar, including which one is the most humane and the most effective, keep reading.
Shock Collars
Electric shock collars work by delivering a zap or shock to your dog's neck each time he barks above a certain decibel level. So, would you put an electric shock collar on your child to prevent him or her from crying? Then why are you making your dog wear an electric dog bark collar?
Electric shocks are unpleasant, painful and mentally upsetting. They can lead to symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression, which translates to fearful and possibly overly aggressive dogs. Also, it's unclear what, if any, side effects there are of electric shock therapy.
Ultrasonic Collars
Ultrasonic collars work by emitting a high-pitched noise every time your dog barks. Apparently, the noise is inaudible to humans, but very unpleasant for dogs. Unfortunately, not only do these collars not work very well, they may actually encourage barking.
Not all dogs have ultrasonic hearing and not all dogs can hear super high-pitched noises. Also, because you can't hear the collar, there's no way to tell if it's even working.
If the ultrasonic collar is emitting a high-pitched noise, that noise may be encouraging your dog to bark louder and longer. Typically, when dogs hear noises, they consider it their cue to either start barking or continue barking. That's why many ultrasonic devices just don't work.
Humane Bark Collar - Citronella
Most animal activists and veterinarians agree that citronella spray collars are the most humane bark collar. Instead of issuing an electric shock or high-pitched noise when the dog barks, they simply spray a small amount of citronella, which is an unpleasant smell for most dogs. Over time, the dog will learn to associate the citronella with its barking and it will stop.
Where to Find Citronella Collars
There are two major and popular brands for citronella dog collars, these are the Premiere Gentle Spray Anti-Bark Collar and the MultiVet No Bark Spray Collar.
The Premiere Gentle Spray Anti-Bark Collar is fairly expensive and typically retails for around $70 or $80, though has been spotted for as low as $35. It comes with a full can of citronella and the batteries are easily replaceable.
The MultiVet No Dog Bark Collar costs slightly less, but is better suited for smaller dogs. The collar is adjustable, but more able to carry the weight of the citronella pouch when it's set to a smaller size.
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PetSuppliesTips.com :: Dog Bark Collar