Collar “anti-bark”: how to choose?

An anti-bark collar for dogs is an electronic collar that responds to the voice of a pet. When the dog starts to bark non-stop, it works and punishes it with the help of various actions. Today there are several types of collars, which differ in their principle of action.

Types of anti-bark collars:

1. Ultrasonic

   As you might guess, collars of this type act on dogs using ultrasound. As soon as the pet starts barking, the device turns on and makes an unpleasant sound. This type of collar is considered not very effective: the animal quickly gets used to unpleasant sounds.

2. Spray

   This is the safest type of anti-bark collar as it is gentle on the pet. The collar delivers a small stream of air or water, which is unpleasant for the animal. The only drawback of this type of device is that they can only be used in the warm season.

3. Электрический

   The most controversial type of collar, which is opposed by many owners and animal rights activists. The fact is that with uncontrolled barking, the collar sends current pulses, the strength of which is set. So, it can be both a small discharge that causes discomfort, and a powerful enough one that can cause pain to the dog.

4. Vibrating

   Collars of this type, along with spray collars, are absolutely safe for the dog. They don’t make you feel uncomfortable. If the pet begins to bark, the collar turns on the vibration, which diverts his attention. The problem is that not all animals react to such exposure.

5. Combined

   This type of collar combines several types of signals. As a rule, it starts with the easiest – a vibration signal or a sound; if the dog does not calm down, an electrical signal is given. If the pet has not stopped barking, the current charge increases.

How to choose a collar?

Finding the right collar for your pet is easy. Despite the fact that the devices are adjustable in length, the main thing is to determine the principle of their operation.

The optimal anti-bark collar for small dogs is vibration or ultrasonic, they gently affect the pet. Such models are especially suitable for shy animals. Anti-bark collars for large dogs are most often electrical devices. Collars with spray or gas are considered universal, they are suitable for animals of any size.

Photo from the page Anti-bark collar

Is it worth it to buy?

Experts have not yet come to a consensus on the dangers and benefits of anti-bark collars. On the one hand, such accessories allow you to quickly wean your pet from uncontrollable barking, on the other hand, this can be achieved at a dubious price.

In addition, the dog does not always adequately respond to unexpected external influences. She may be frightened or, conversely, behave quite aggressively.

Before you buy such a collar, you should understand why the dog behaves this way. Uncontrolled barking can be not only an attempt to attract the attention of the owner, but also a sign of the unbalanced psyche of the animal. And in this case, the use of a collar is contraindicated: you can only aggravate the condition of the pet.

If you are thinking about purchasing such a collar, be sure to consult a veterinarian, dog handler or breeder.

Photo: Collection

28 May 2018

Updated: July 6, 2018