6 Best Anti Bark Collars | Train Your Dog to Stop Barking with a Variety of Effective Devices | An Ultimate Review of What Works and What Doesn’t | Buyer’s Guide 2022
Tired of pesky neighbors complaining that your dog’s barking too loud? Tired of training your pooch to stop growling, barking, and howling at innocent kids and guests? Then it’s high time you purchased an anti-bark collar for dogs! Make your life a little easier with the advanced technology and efficient training that these devices deliver. In our guide, you’re going to learn the nitty-gritty of purchasing bark collars, see how they work and what types of collars are there.
With such a proliferation of advanced gadgets on the market, it’s a shame not to take advantage of one of those devices that claim to help with training your dog to behave better and bark less. But let’s see what these devices have to offer and if they are really worth buying.
What is the best anti-bark collar? First off, you need to ask yourself if you really need an anti-bark collar and if it’s absolutely necessary. And if the answer is yes, then consider choosing the most humane version of the collar available. Then ensure the collar is from a respectable trusted brand with guarantees, a return policy, and reliable customer service. Look for collars with more than one setting for better customization (both for you and your pet) to adjust the settings, if necessary.
We believe that PetSafe Bark Collar with 15 levels of automatically adjusting static correction is the best trusted one to teach your dog to stop excessive barking.
PetSafe is a global brand in pet products with a 30-year history. They also manufacture a non-shocking Citronella Spray Bark Collar. It is best for sensitive dogs, you may choose from 3 training options: audible tone, vibration, or spray. Or you may like PetSafe Ultrasonic Pet Trainer.
A bark collar is a device that controls your dog’s barking whenever necessary. There is most often a microphone within the collar that detects suspicious activity such as barking or growling and responds to that activity by taking a certain action to prevent it: delivering a static electric shock, emitting an ultrasonic high pitch noise, or spraying a citrus-scented liquid.
- Trains and educates your dog and prepares her for a social life
- Happy neighbors: no more complaining about your dog’s excessive barking
- Relatively safe for your dog and easy to use
- Inexpensive compared to hiring a trainer
- Promotes positive behavior and response within a less amount of time
- The humaneness of these methods are questionable
- There’s a greater chance of abusing the power of those devices
- Electric shock collars can hurt your dog by irritating and inflaming her neck
- Some of the devices would react to other dogs’ barking but punish your dog instead
- There’s still a possibility of device malfunctioning thus, your dog again can be punished for something she didn’t do
- Training can have adverse consequences when your dog suppresses unwanted behavior rather than learns proper conduct, meaning it can become even more aggressive towards you or other people
In case you tried every other humane method of teaching your dog good behavior and nothing seemed to work, then probably it’s not a bad idea to try one of those anti-bark collars. However, more humane ways are always preferred because this is a relationship between you and your dog we are talking about, and I’m sure you don’t want to ruin trust and shake that frail mutual love.
Also, if money’s not an issue, maybe it’s a good idea to hire a professional trainer, even if in the end, you’ll end up with one of those collars anyway, at least you’ll be able to ask a professional all the right questions on how to use, fit, and properly size the collar.
However, if money’s the greatest concern and your dog just doesn’t seem to respond to your perfectly good and affectionate conduct, then collars can be the only options you’re left with.
Also, when neighbors are greatly distressed with your dog’s barking and you can’t just take their offensive complaints anymore, then you can get a collar to show them you are committed to training your dog some good manners.
Types of bark collars & their effectiveness, according to science
Now let’s look at the most common type of bark collars currently available on the market.
Electric Anti-Bark Collars (shock/pulse collars/vibration/ bark collars or e-collars)
This type of collar is based on delivering a static electric shock, which intends to be harmless, as a response to barking. Some models are radio-controlled electronic devices, some include tone and vibrational settings in addition to electric shock, others have in-built GPS locators to determine the dog’s whereabouts.
Most often these collars would have a microphone inside that would sense the barking and deliver an electric shock, other devices could associate your dog’s body vibrations with barking and respond accordingly.
Are e-collars cruel or effective?
The researchers from Michigan State University, for example, strongly oppose the use of electric shock collars, saying that positive training methods should be always preferred. However, if there’s no other alternative, then e-collar must be paired with other positive methods like praise, consistent use of positive language and emotions. Unfortunately, if the power of the collar is abused, a dog can become confused, aggressive, frustrated, and even depressed. The e-collars might also result in misassociations, which happen when dogs start associating an electric shock with something other than their own barking. There was a news story when an old lady’s dog started associating electric shock with small dogs and once it did kill another dog because of that.
Another scientific review of the literature on electronic training devices, published in 2007, concluded that electronic training was aversive, should be avoided, and never used as the first level of training. However, the review also mentioned that when used by a skilled professional no physical injury to a dog should occur, whereas when used by a regular untrained and unprepared pet owner, the possible adverse outcomes are numerous and unpredictable.
According to the latest data, electric shock collars are going to be completely banned in Great Britain. That said, although the manufacturers claim that the collars are harmless, it is not entirely so, and governments and charities across the world are taking steps to prevent unnecessary animal cruelty.
However, the International Association of Canine Professionals (aka IACP and that’s based in the US) strongly opposes the ban on the humane use of any training tool saying that the ban “would result in a higher incidence of nuisance and dangerous dog behavior, and more dogs being surrendered to already overburdened public shelters”. That said, the association also mentioned that these training tools were particularly effective in training working dogs that performed specialized tasks and were beneficial to society.
Citronella Bark Collars
Another type is also known as spray collars and, as the name gives away, these collars spray the dog with a plant-based liquid in response to barking. This is a safer and much more preferred alternative to e-collars. A study published by researchers from Cornell University confirmed that citronella collars were more effective than e-collars. However, they also mentioned that it was important to adjust the microphone sensitivity so the dog doesn’t get punished for some other dog’s bad behavior and barking.
Ultrasonic Bark Collars
An ultrasonic bark collar emits a high-pitched ultrasonic sound (that only dogs can hear) as a response to barking. Unfortunately, not a lot of scientific research is available on the use and the effectiveness of such devices, but they become more and more common, and hopefully, more studies will follow. Besides, ultrasonic devices seem more humane, however, the degree of humaneness can be questioned.
The reason is that you never know if the sound can really hurt the dog and drive her crazy: you don’t hear the sound and you don’t know how it actually affects the dog in the long run. Overall, ultrasonic bark collars fall somewhere in between citronella and e-collars, with citronella being the most humane and effective, and e-collars being the most inhumane and controversial.
First off, you need to ask yourself if you really need an anti-bark collar and if it’s absolutely necessary. And if the answer is yes, then consider choosing the most humane version of the collar available. That said, citronella collars are going to be preferred. Then ensure the collar is from a respectable trusted brand, preferably American, with guarantees, a return policy, and reliable customer service. Look for collars with more than one setting for better customization (both for you and your pet) to adjust the settings, if necessary. Other things to consider when shopping are addressed hereinbelow.
- Dog’s weight
Most manufacturers would outline the dog’s weight in their products’ description, so you should have no problem with choosing the correct collar according to your pet’s weight. Puppies under 8 lbs, however, should never wear a bark collar. Use the weight in conjunction with the manufacturer’s information on the recommended neck circumference, as the size of your pet’s neck can be more indicative.
- Neck circumference of your dog
Measure the size of the neck at the area where your dog’s neck meets the back, compare the value with the length of the collar. See if the collar’s length can be adjusted. Look for any indication in the description that would suggest the type of breed the collar is best suited for, like bark collar for large dogs (husky or german shepherd) or for small dogs (Chihuahua, Yorkie, Beagle, Dachshund, etc)
- Type of bark collar
If you’re advised by a professional dog trainer to purchase a static e-collar, and you’re sure you’re not going to abuse its power, then go for it. If you’re into a more humane approach, then purchase citronella or an ultrasonic collar, which would work just as well.
- The adjustability of the sensitivity of the device
Make sure the sensitivity of the device can be adjusted so your dog doesn’t get punished for other dogs’ barking and misbehavior. The more settings a device has, the better.
- Overall durability
Look if the device is durable. It should be water, dust, moisture, snow proof. Nylon is the preferred material as it’s the most durable one.
Best-Selling Anti-Bark Collars in the UK | Comparison Table
Advanced 2in1 Anti Bark Dog Collar Stop Dogs Excessive Barking Device SAFE HARMLESS & HUMANE Anti-Bark Training...
- **FORGET BARKING** No Shock! Dog Barking Collar will work for small, medium, and large dog breeds. 'PETIC' anti-bark collars are designed to deliver results and stop your dog's barking forever! 7 auto-progressive dog's barking correction levels are designed to train your pet step-by-step and ensure that dog is learning progressively to stop barking by himself.
- **SAFE & HUMANE** There is no harm to your dog as this bark control device is gentle to your pet by warning without physical harm. 'Petit' no-bark collars no pain solution based on humane technology. 2in1 Design includes blue and orange reflective faceplates for extra visibility in the dark roads to keep your pet safe
- **PERFECT QUALITY FIT FOR ANY SIZE* anti-bark collar is designed for small, medium, and large size dog breeds. It can prevent the barking of extra small dogs too! Automatic Bark Correction Collar is for dogs weighing between 3.5kg - 50kg with neck size 17cm - 55cm(7"-22"). High-quality materials will ensure durability and comfort during long walks or bad weather conditions. Safety first! The buckle is made from solid ABS plastic with no weak points to it. This will ensure a strong buckle lock.
- **APPROVED & CERTIFIED** Stop barking device is approved and certified for UK & EU markets. To manufacture high-quality stop barking collars we use only green materials in the process and that confirms RoHS certification along with CE certificate which ensures high quality of electronic parts used to manufacture 'PETIC' anti bark devices. To prevent barking 'Petic' will NEVER use shock or spray as we strive to keep your pet safe!
- **AUTOMATIC LEARNING** It is designed to stop your dog's barking without any human interaction. Set the desired sensitivity level and let it do the rest of the work!
Petzilla-681Anti Bark Collar No Bark Collar Harmless and Humane Dog Collar No Shock Pet Training Collar Dog Bark...
- 🐶Safe Humane & No Shock– Petzilla no bark collar is designed for behavior modification of your best friend that will eliminate unnecessary barking. Using a progressive correction stimulus, the device creates an association your dog will understand, it is harmless and humane because it doesn't generate electric shock.
- 🐶How It Works – Petzilla Anti bark collar has 7 correction levels, which deliver different sound and vibration combinations 1st bark: Progressive warning beeps for 1.5 seconds 2nd bark: Progressive warning beeps for 2.5 seconds 3rd bark: Sound for 4 seconds+Vibration for 0.5 seconds 4th bark: Sound for 4 seconds+Vibration for 1 second 5th bark: Sound for 4 seconds+Vibration for 1.5 seconds 6th bark: Sound for 4 seconds+Vibration for 2 seconds 7th bark: Sound for 4 seconds+ Vibration.
- 🐶 Suitable For Dogs Of All Sizes And Breeds – Petzilla no bark collar is recommended for over 12 Lbs dogs. - The adjustable collar strap is easily fitted around any dog's neck ranging from 7 to 21 inches(17-55cm). It provides an ideal and completely harmless solution to any dog over 12 lbs. The product is NOT RECOMMENDED for dogs with LONG COATS OF FUR around the neck and neither for tiny pocket dogs
- 🐶Technology and Martial: Petizilla anti-bark collar uses high tech microprocessor which learns from dog’s behavior and delivers sound and vibration accordingly. Its made of nylon and ABS martial which is approved & certified for UK and US markets.
- 🐶 Money Back Guarantee – Petzilla bark control collar instruction manual is in the box. Please read it carefully and use the collar accordingly. In-case bark collar doesn't meet your expectations send it back for replacement or for total refund!
Anti Bark Collar for Small Large Dogs No Shock Bark Collars Dog Anti Barking Device Training Dog Barking Collar...
- INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY: The collar uses new sound and vibration technology to ensure safety for your pet. The design of the collar is rainproof, which allows you to use it outside without worries. The innovative technology also enables to control of the sensitivity level.
- AUTOMATIC LEARNING - it is designed to stop your dog's barking without any human interaction. Set the desired sensitivity level and let it do the rest of the work!
- SAFE & HUMANE - stop unwanted behaviour. No harm to your dog with an advanced anti-bark collar.
- ANY SIZE DOG - electronic anti bark stopper will fit from small to large dog breeds. The adjustable strap will ensure a correct fit for dogs from 6 to 120 lbs (2.7 to 55 Kg).
- QUALITY MATTERS - designed from high-quality materials to ensure the effectiveness of electric parts. No random failure or triggering with PetKing anti bark collar!
epetomize Anti Bark Dog Collar NO SHOCK - Safe harmless Anti Bark Collar with HUMANE VIBRATION - Small and Large...
- AUTOMATIC DOG BARK COLLAR; Our device works without remote or human input with the aim of our collar being to make life easier for you and your dog by having a helpful correctional collar that utilizes batteries and doesn't need constant attention from you or the family
- SAFE AND HUMANE + UK OWNED BUSINESS; Being pet lovers ourselves the last thing we want is for our collar to cause any kind of distress to your dog so we have ensured that it only works via vibration and sound with absolutely no shock involved as well as having comfortable rounded plastic node covers. We are also local, with customer support and satisfaction being our main focus
- ADJUSTABLE SIZE and SENSITIVITY LEVELS; We have made a big effort to cater to small and large dog breeds by making the collar's activation sensitivity level and strap size adjustable. This also enables you to decrease the activation sensitivity when you feel that your dog is progressing in its training and getting used to the new behavioral pattern.
- UK AND EU QUALITY APPROVED; We have ensured that the materials used in our collar are all UK and EU quality approved and have been CE marked for EU sales ensuring compliance to environmental and health and safety requirements
- 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE; We really do hope that our product meets all of your wishes and requirements however if this is not the case please do not hesitate to contact us within 30 days of your purchase for a full refund
SOYAO Anti Barking Dog Collars, Automatic Bark Collar with Citronella Spray, Barking Collar with Adjustable...
- 🐶Safe and Harmless Dog Barking Device: The spray is made of natural essential oils, which do not contain CPC components, It's an environmentally friendly product and safe for dogs and humans. (Note: The spray does not include, please purchase separately)
- 👍Anti Bark Collar with Automatic Spray: Automatically detect dog barking and spray to stop barking, free from external sound and frequency interference.
- 🐶Adjustable Sensitivity & Spray: Due to different barking frequencies and different responses of dogs to external stimuli, our products specially designed sensitivity and spray adjustable system. You can set the sensitivity and spray level according to the dog's barking and the dog's response to the spray.
- 👍Dog Training Collar with Rain-proof: The waterproof level of PIX3, Your dog can use it normally in rainy days or when drinking water.(Note: It is not recommended that your dog wear it to bathe or swim)
- 🐶Bark Collar for Dogs: Suitable for dogs over 6 months old. The size of his collar can be adjusted to make it suitable for small, medium and large dogs. There is a replacement strap as a small gift for your dogs.
HVRSTVILL Advanced Bark Collar, Anti Bark Collar for Small Medium Large Dogs, Stop Barking Device - NO SHOCK,...
- ✅ONE COLLAR SET YOU FREE: Our anti bark collar has 2 training modes & 7 adjustable intensity levels. 2 training modes ‘beep’ and ‘vibration’ can be turned on or off separately according to your needs. 7 levels adjustment allows you to choose the appropriate intensity according to the size of the dog. You can increase the intensity to prevent your dog from adapting to this item, then effectively solve the problems.
- ✅ADVANCED SMART CHIP AND VERIFIED FOR SAFENESS: HVRSTVILL bark collar has the latest technology of detection with a sensor that senses both barking vibration and sound. It distinguishes your dog from barking with other dogs and does not interfere with another sound. Our no shock anti-bark collar has been certified for US & EU markets with FCC and RoHS certification. This no bark collar trains your dog in the safest way.
- ✅RECHARGEABLE LONG BATTERY LIFE, LCD DISPLAY, ECO AND AUTO-PROTECTION MODE: USB Charging Battery lasts more than 14 days, and only needs 1 hour to charge. Press the power button the LCD display shows the current power level. Collar sits in the ECO mode if it is not activated. If the collar is activated 7 times in one minute will enter auto-protection mode and save your dog from accident.
- ✅ADJUSTABLE REFLECTIVE STRAP FITS ALL DIFFERENT SIZES, WEATHERPROOF AND LIGHTWEIGHT: Our nylon strap covers neck range from 19 to 60cm and fits a size from 7 to 55kg, fits small, medium and large dogs. Collar only weighs 70 grams, no burden for your dog. IPX6 rainproof makes sure collar works in rainy day.
- ☎ We Confidently Guarantee the Quality for 2 Years: Our friendly and reliable customer service will respond to you within less than 12 hours. 100% satisfaction, no risk of purchasing. For any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will solve your issue immediately.
The Woof Whisperer Anti Bark Dog Collar Small Medium Large Dogs STOP BARKING No Shock Vibration Sound Training...
- 🚫 STOP BARKING: The Woof Whisperer No Shock! Dog Barking Collar has 100% success rates when used properly. Our bark collar will stop your dogs barking behaviour forever! 7 auto-progressive dog’s barking correction levels are designed to progressively stop your dog barking over time.
- ❤️ SAFE & HUMANE: Our bark collar is a gentle no pain solution to your dogs barking by only training with sound and vibration. The Woof Whisperer bark collar has a soft and comfortable reflective strap so you can see your dog in the dark keeping them safe and sound!
- 🐶 DIFFERENT SIZES: Unlike other bark collars, we have DIFFERENT SIZES. The small bark collar body is 30% smaller for really small dogs. We don’t think 'One size fits all' cuts it! A tiny dog needs a tiny device! Tried and tested on our in house Papillion & Pomeranian. See our small listing for photos!
- 😃 FREE TRAINING E-BOOK & SUPPORT GROUP: Download your free eBook on purchase! Quickly training out barking is easy with association. Our automatic sound and vibration bark collar & eBook are all you need. We explain the psychology of why dogs bark; your collar used correctly alongside our eBook will have you a calm and happy home in no time. We also have training and instructional videos coming soon in our support group!
- ⭐️ CERTIFIED, RISK FREE & 5 STAR CUSTOMER SERVICE: Our stop barking device is approved & certified for the UK & EU market unlike other ecollars. Full instructions will arrive with the bark collar. FREE Blue, Orange and Pink covers to match your dog. Tell us if there are any issues & we will fix them right away 😊.
PcEoTllar Anti Bark Collar Rechargeable for Small Dogs Stop Dog Barking Device Effective 7 Sensitivity Adjustable...
- ➤ HUMAN & HARMLESS -- Our Pumila Collar has no shock mode, and our dog stop barking collars are based on human design of sound and vibration technology. It will help your dog stop excessive barking without harm, so that you will not worry about your dog's safety.
- ➤ PROGRESSIVE AND EFFECTIVE TRAINING -- To prevent dogs from being frightened, the anti bark working mechanism is delivered through 7 progressive levels of sound and vibration modes. This design ensures that your dog receives the minimum amount of stimulation required to prevent barking.
- ➤ RECHARGEABLE & WATERPROOF -- Rechargeable design, the bark collar built-in lithium battery, fast charging and long term use. Waterproof design allows dogs to play in splash water or rain, but please take off the collar when the dog goes bathing or swimming.
- ➤ INTELLIGENT RECOGNITION TECH -- Intelligent anti-jamming, which can safely and effectively filter other unrelated sounds and prevent false triggering. Only your dog's barking can trigger the barking collar. High-quality materials will ensure durability and comfort during long walks or bad weather conditions. The buckle is made from solid ABS plastic, sturdy and durable. This design ensure the buckle will not broke during the dogs running or other intense exercise.
- ➤ FOR SMALL & MEDIUM DOGS -- Adjustable collar length 5-19 inch, Perfect for 6+lbs dogs. High-quality nylon strap improve the wearing comfort, with reflective stripes, which is responsible for increasing your dog's safety and visibility. Pumila dog collar designed small and lightweight, will not be a burden to your dog. If the length of strap is too long for your dog, you can cut it by yourself at will to suit for your dog neck size.
Dog Bark Collar with Vibration PetMania, No Bark Collar, Harmless and Humane, Training and Anti Bark Collar, 7...
- ✔ SAFE & HUMANE- We know how much you love your furry friend, but we also know how much of an issue their barking can sometimes be. That is why we have created this safe but effective dog bark collar best on the market, where no harm is reached to your pet as there is absolutely no shocking involved! The collar uses 2in1 vibrations and high frequency sounds to effectively stop barking. The useful piece of equipment aids you in training your pet the way it should be done, stress and harm free!
- ✔PROGRESSIVE TRAINING - The new, innovative and uniquely designed PetMania collar has 7 auto-progressive levels to safely & efficiently stop the barking. The collar is designed so that with each level the vibrations get longer to ensure that the that dog is learning progressively to stop barking by themselves and that the training is more effective.
- ✔SUITABILITY- Each dog is unique and we understand that which is why our collar has been designed to work for all sized dog breeds. The product has the capacity to be able to be used by dogs weighing between 5kg-50kg with a neck size of 7inches-22inches with the option to adjust the sensitivity depending on your dog.
- ✔ATTRACTIVE & DURABLE – Our durable and sleek design means your dog can still outshine all of their friends and reflect their amazing personalities but with something a little extra special that will have both you and them receiving compliments from everyone who’s eyes they catch. The collar straps come with two interchangeable covers which are reflective for that added touch. The material used for the straps is extremely comfortable and appealing as they are 100% top quality satin weaved nylon.
- ✔PETMANIA CARES - Here at PetMania we care about each and every dog which is why we take great pride in manufacturing premium products for all of our existing and new customers. We believe or products to be so reliable that if you are not 100% satisfied with our product then we encourage you to get in touch with us and we will hope to resolve your matter as soon as possible. We have a 60-day money back guarantee so get in touch with us and we will aim to respond back to you within 24 hours.
Pet Union No Bark Dog Collar, Stop Dogs Barking with Sound & Vibration, Humane (No Shock or Harmful Sprays)...
- The Ultimate Anti-Bark Collar - PetTech Sonic Anti-Bark Collar using four different training modes to help control your dogs uncontrollable barking - making you and your dog happier!
- FOUR Training Modes - Beep, Vibrate, Ultrasonic and Combination provide you with a multitude of training options to fit your needs!
- 305 m (1,000 ft) Range - The PetTech Sonic Anti-Bark Collar has a range of 305 m (1,000 ft) and is fully rechargeable and waterproof!
- Fits Dogs 10-100 lbs (4.5-45 kg) - Whether you have a large or small furry friend this adjustable collar will work for you! Fits all dogs from 10-100 lbs (4.5-45 kg)!
Top 6 Best Bark Collars 2018
Here we’ll walk you through all the best bark collars currently offered on the market: we’ll cover several e-collars, more humane collars without shock but vibration or spray, as well as talk about “invisible” fence collars that help train dogs with “space issues”.
1. Petrainer - Dog Training Collar w/ Beep, Vibration & Shock - bark collar with remote & sound
This device from Petrainer is an absolute bestseller in the e-collar category. It has also been endorsed by expert trainers and well-received by the consumers alike. According to the manufacturer, the barking collar can be used to correct various unwanted behaviors, as well as teach other behavioral obediences, like walking, sitting, lying, responding to voice commands, etc.
This model features three types of stimulation, including static shock, vibration, and sound (standard tone, beep). The collar static has multiple levels of intensity ranging from 0 up to a 100. There’s also a remote that works up to 330 yards to easily train your dog outside in a park or yard. The receiver and transmitter can be recharged and are also water-resistant, bringing durability and convenience to the device. The collar strap is made of nylon and can be adjusted. Would fit necks from 15 to 22 inches.
The customers who were well-devoted to the brand and this particular model recently expressed their concerns over the product’s redesign and remodeling which resulted in an inferior product. Some mentioned that the new remodels worked only for a few days, while their older versions were still working on other dogs.
2. Petrainer Beep/Vibrating/Shock E-Collar - bark collar with remote & sound
This is yet another product from Petrainer, which is a bit more expensive than the model we described above, but you’re also getting two receivers and one remote for the price.
It features the same types of stimulation, namely static shock (from 0 to 100), vibration (100 levels), and sound (standard tone, beep), the difference is only in the size of the collar, as it fits necks up to 25 inches and would sit well on pets 15 lbs or larger. The adjustable TPU strap is also easier to clean and take care of. The device and its components are also 100% waterproof.
The majority of customers seemed pleased with their purchases, but there were again a few who said the remote lost the connection half of the time, rendering the device not very practical.
3. SportDOG Brand NoBark - bark e-collar without prongs
This is one of the expensive items on our list, but it’s also pretty sophisticated. It works not only by detecting when your dog barks but also in combination with vibration from vocal cords. So, if other dogs bark, it won’t do anything to hurt your pet. The device’s patented bark sensor system provides more reliable control and detection. There’s also a safety built-in feature that shuts off the unit after the dog barked for more than 15 times per 50 seconds.
SportDOG is not a regular e-collar, it actually features a pretty advanced progressive correction mode that starts at very low levels and progresses until the dog responds to the stimuli. However, if you prefer to customize the settings yourself, you can switch off the progressive correction control and select a user mode. Other things this device boasts of include 10 levels of static, 3 selectable modes (learning, progressive correction, user mode), and rechargeable batteries. Intended for dogs 8 pounds or with neck sizes of 5-22 inches. The device’s also waterproof.
It also seems like the product delivers as advertised judging by generously positive consumer responses. However, please, be careful with this device, because it can actually hurt your pooch if your pet’s skin is very sensitive. Some consumers, unfortunately, shared the pictures of their little four-legged friends with burned necks and scars because it was that intense. Please, be careful and take care of your animal friends.
4. PetSafe Spray & Anti-Bark Device - bark collar with spray
This is finally the spray product that has been recommended as a training alternative to e-collars. It uses a burst of citronella spray (which dogs hate) to discourage barking. It’s water resistant and the can’s good for 300 to 400 sprays. This device can be used on dogs more than 8 lbs and with necks up to 27 inches. It operates on reusable batteries (which are included).
The customers, however, had varying degrees of success with this device, but many of them still said that they had great results. Others, who were left rather unhappy, mentioned the device stopped working correctly after a while and they needed to purchase a replacement or exchange it for a working version.
PetSafe: Check the current price
5. POP VIEW Harmless and Humane Bark Collar - bark collar without shock
This is a more humane approach to an e-collar, it also won’t spray your dog with any liquid, but will vibrate and emit a sound when it spots an unwanted behavior. No shock unit detects movement of your dog's vocal cords and then emits audible warning beeps that are followed by vibrations if the barking continues. The collar’s size is practically one-fits-all and can be easily adjusted for any dog of any breed and weight (neck’s circumference up to 21 inches). All-weather nylon web collar is impervious to rain and snow. The collar also features 7 sensitivity adjustments, works on batteries (included), and has a dual-retention plastic buckle to ensure it remains on your dog.
Surprisingly enough, it worked like a charm for consumers, who mentioned that it worked way better than an electric shock. However, there were still unimpressed consumers who said the beeping actually confused their pets, scared or made them whiny instead.
6. Sit Boo-Boo Electric Dog Fence for Dominant Dogs - bark collar and invisible fence
In case you’re looking for something more than just an e-collar, then you’ll like this advanced version specifically designed for aggressively dominant or just plain stubborn dogs.
The device features a sophisticated engineered technology of a hidden electric dog fence. However, there are still wires present (industrial grade 500 ft of solid copper wire) that need to be mounted on the physical fencing.
The transmitter is so powerful, it can handle up to 20 acres of land. Every component of this system is 100% waterproof and the rugged collar can actually be submerged in water up to one meter. The system also features progressive correction training with increasing intensity with a safety shut-off feature. The collar’s rechargeable and suitable for both small and large dogs from 8 lbs.
Consumers said the product delivered as advertised and was very easy to install, the customer service was also ready to answer all the consumer’s questions. One person, however, mentioned that the device was not very consistent.
How to use & properly fit a bark collar on a dog
To learn how to properly fit a bark collar on a dog, please, watch the following video:
How to fit a bark collar?
As you may have learned from the video, it’s best to fit the collar around the nearest part of the neck so that the electric contact points would have a better connection with the dog’s skin.
How tight should a bark collar be?
It should not be too tight because you don’t want to strangle your dog, but it should not be too loose as well because this way there won’t be enough connection for the shock to be delivered consistently. The distance between the collar and your dog's skin should fit one of your fingers.
How to train your dog to stop barking
Training according to science
First of all, you need to understand the source of your dog’s barking. According to the veterinarians from the University of California, Davis, barking is a normal behavior for a dog that could indicate the following:
- Dog’s excited to see you and would like to play
- Your dog protects her territory and space which she would prefer human and dog strangers not to trespass
- Your dog’s lonely or bored and seeks your attention
- Your dog communicates information to other dogs: this is her way of talking to others
- She’s afraid or anxious about something or someone: watch your dog closely and see if you can help her calm down or remove the object of her uncertainty and fear
If you think that your dog’s barking falls outside the listed reasons above then you should seek the veterinarian help and check if your dog might suffer from any disease (although very rare) that would contribute to her excessive barking. It’s crucial to exclude any possible medical reasons that could cause your dog to bark. Your veterinarian can also suggest you visit a pet behavior specialist who can help you with reducing the dog’s dependence on you, help your dog with separation anxiety, overcome fear and calm down on her own.
The same researchers from the UC Davis also suggest trying the following actions to help prevent barking:
- Activity is key: make sure you walk your dog regularly, exercise and play with her plenty
- Give your dog some love and attention
- Provide enough mental stimulation for your dog: deter or interrupt the unwanted behavior by an attention game: teach her basic commands, like “come”, “sit”, “catch”, “target”, “quiet”, that would help you to focus your dog’s attention on you or any other object and divert her from barking
- Be positive and always praise your dog for a good behavior or responding correctly to a stimuli
- Stop playing with your pooch when she barks
- Do not yell, become aggressive, punch, push, or otherwise hurt your dog even if she stops listening to your commands
- Do not punish your dog if barking is out of fear, because it could only make things much worse
In the guidance to owners of barking dogs the pet specialists from the Pet Behavior Center also recommended the following tips to help a lonely dog:
- Ask friends, relatives, or neighbors to look after your pet when you’re at work or at least come and check on her and see if she’s okay
- Hire a dog walker or a pet sitter if relatives and friends can’t help you
- Take your dog to the work if you can
- Consider temporary day-time boarding in case your pet’s previous history with boarding is positive or if your pet has not yet been boarded then take all steps necessary to ensure she’s fully comfortable while away from you.
Training according to consumers & pet owners
We’ve decided to share a couple of videos on teaching dogs not to bark with and without bark collars for you to see how others do it and maybe learn some tips that would help you train your dog as well.
How to train with a bark collar
How to train without a bark collar
FAQ
Conclusion
E-collars, when not abused and set up properly, should not hurt your dog. However, these devices are not preferred, because it’s always advisable to try and train your dog with love and affection first. And if that doesn’t work out, then try more humane gadgets that would spray something harmless on the pet or beep a couple of times to teach her associate new unpleasant sounds, smells, and feelings with her barking. Hopefully, that would work, stay safe and take care of your best animal friend!
Read also our guide: 24 Best Dog Cooling Products. Review of Best Cooling Devices from TOP Manufacturers.