No bark collar recommendations?

Question

I posted another question asking how to get my dog to stop barking, and quite a few people recommended special collars that teach the dogs how to bark.

Has anyone used these? Can you recommend any brands?

Please answer based only on experience and not a Web search.

Please don't assume that my dog spends all day outside barking because he's bored. He isn't an outside dog, he just barks at things, especially noises, when he's outside to do his business.

Answer 1

I have had great results (without trauma to the dogs) with the sonic no bark collar at WalMart.. It is only about $32, and the only problem is it has to be taken off if the dog will get wet..It worked in 2 days to stop the incessant barking, and only needs to be worn for a couple of weeks..I used it for a 6 month old rescue that was so stressed that she just couldn't quit barking..It seemed much more humane than continually correcting a dog that hadn't gotten adjusted to her home..I have loaned it out, and all have appreciated it..
the way it works is, after the second bark, it gives a warning beep, and then with each consecutive bark the beep becomes louder and more irritating..It isn't a painful sound or anything, and people can hear it, it is just really irritating to the dog..
It doesn't stop them from barking at strangers when they should..
If you don't want to try the collar, there are several other options for bark control here> http://www.drsfostersmith.com/product/NavResults.cfm?N=2001+113215

Answer 2

First of all - understand WHY your dog is barking!

Is it fear motivated? If so, find out what frightens her and convince her it A)can't hurt her, or B)is below her level of notice.

Is it emotional? (I can't "talk" but I get attention if I bark and then spend time with my "pack"). If so, you're going to have to be somewhat tougher (and consistent) in your approach - eventually the dog will realize that barking is not getting the desired results. Note - if you do opt for this approach - be sure to reward the dog for good behavior (like sitting quietly at the back door and simply looking in, or for lying down waiting for you to open up and let them in).

Basically, spend time with your dog, teaching them what you want them to do. Look up licensed dog trainers (and probably breeders) in your area and spend an afternoon discussing canine training with them ... if the dog is barking, it probably needs to learn a few other things as well. Remember, all it really wants to do is please YOU - the pack leader.

If all else fails, THEN go to a "no-bark" collar. Most are not harmful to the dog, unless you've fastened it too tightly and they're in the process of shedding a summer (or winter) coat. If you take the time to train them properly, there should be no need for them to stay on the collar for an extended period.

For example, our Labrador retriever learned the 'limits' of his yard on an "invisible fence" system over about three weeks of a couple of hours a day. After that, he could be left out without the collar, or with the fence power shut off and he'd stay in the yard. We never had a barking problem with him, but we used the first couple of things I mentioned to stop his "brother" from being a barking pest. It took about 10 days, all told.

Answer 3

I lived in an apartment building and my dog was barking when I wasn't home and it was very annoying to the neighbors. Her bark was very shrill and would go on for hours. I got the bark collar and it worked wonders in no time at all. After a short while I would put the collar on without the battery and she still didn't bark. Now I don't have to put it on her at all and the only time she barks is when she sees me soming up the driveway. I highly recommend these collars. Good Luck.

Answer 4

I used them, and found them to be quite effective. It shocks the dog a little until they learn not to bark, and it does not take very long.

Sorry I don't have the brand, I got it through the same company that installed the electronic fence we use to keep the dogs in the yard.

Answer 5

I reccommend the sort that squirts water into the dog's face, not the electric kind. I tried my friend's electric one on myself, and the shock was horribly painful.
If you can't find that kind, try putting some water and maybe vinegar into a squirt bottle and following yur dog when he goes out, then giving him a shot of it the instant he starts barking. Remember: catch him in the act or it won't "click" in his mind.
PS It worked for my dogs but my friend's dog got to like the taste of vinegar. Hope it works!

Answer 6

honestly i find them cruel my brother had to use one on his small dog and after being used awhile the skin below the collar was sore and the hair was falling out my brother stopped using it because it just caused to much pain and discomfort to the dog

Answer 7

Premier Gentle Spray has worked wonders for my dog. It is a citronella collar.

Answer 8

Just train your dog in some basic obedience, give him a bath and BRING HIM INTO THE HOUSE. Dogs who are involved in the family (pack) RARELY sit around and make noise. They do it because they are friggin' BORED!

Get the dog involved in the pack (your family) and **POOF** suddenly you will not just have a pet, but you will have a friend who likes to be with you and doesn't make noise until it's time to make noise.