Are different types of bark-controlling collars more effective than others (spray, shock, sound)?
I am looking to purchase a bark-controlling collar for my dog and I would rather get a collar that is more humane. However, are the "shock" collars more effective in controlling/training the dog than the noise or spray collars?
Note: My dog barks excessively during the day when we are at work and when we are asleep. Alternative training like kenneling cannot work if we are not in the house to correct her.
I appreciate the help sent so far; however, please answer the question instead of offering your personal opinion in regards to how I should train my dog. Thank you.
levindis
30 Jun, 2010
These collars are not long term solution. These collars utilize negative reinforcement and any trainer or veterinarian will tell you that the aversion to the negative stimuli decreases over time. Do not think that the collar will solve all your problems with barking. For best results the collars need to be used along with a programs of reinforcement while addressing the causes of barking. As to which is more effective it depends on the personality and breed of your dog.
renodogmom
30 Jun, 2010
It depends on your dog. Try the citronella collar first. If it malfunctions, at least it won’t burn your dog.
Is there any other alternative? Training, kenneling, dog in house? Using aversives can have serious behavioral side effects such as: increased fearfulness, mistrust of humans, anxiety, etc.
Pink Denial
30 Jun, 2010
Shock collars can be more effective. The problem with the spray collars is that many dogs have learned that if they bark long enough, the spray will run out and then they can bark as much as they want.
Consider having the dog’s vocal cords removed so that it can’t bark. I have seen a few dogs who have had this done. Honestly, the dogs don’t seem to be negatively affected at all. They still bark like mad and seem to have a great time…the bark just comes out like a whisper, that’s all. And it’s no more "cruel" than electric shock therapy.
Tom C
30 Jun, 2010
The short answer is yes they are more effective…They will still always let out a bark, but it will not be continuous…Keep in mind some dogs do get used to the shock however and will still bark…just not as much
J_Maverick
30 Jun, 2010
If you’re going to be away while the dog is wearing the collar, do not use a shock collar. They really need to be supervised with those because the collar could malfunction or there could come a situation where barking is appropriate such as danger or injury to the dog or an intruder in your home and you wouldn’t want your dog getting zapped constantly in those circumstances. I’ve used the citronella collars on most dogs. Some dogs won’t care and just keep barking and some hate it and get aggressive when it sprays them, even barking and growling more as they try to get it off. Usually though, it works and the dogs bark less. I’ve not had any experience with the sound collars.