Collars to Stop Dogs From Barking

If you are tired constant barking and feel you have tried everything to stop your dog's disruptive habit, a bark collar could be the solution. Initially used by professional trainers, there are now three basic kinds of collars for home use, enabling you to find one that works for you and your dog. Dog training expert Martin Deeley, writing for "dog whisperer" Cesar Milan's website, says that bark collars work, but recommends seeking expert advice before using one.

  1. Shock Collars

    • The shock bark-control collar (also called an e-collar) corrects your dog's behavior when sound and vibration are detected. It has a built-in microphone and a sensor that indicate when the dog is barking. Many models also have multiple settings for behavior correction. The collar emits an electric shock when the dog barks. The severity of the shock can be set at different levels, and collar makers compare the sensation to a small shock received from a carpet. These units are small and waterproof, with some collars even featuring a counter that the owner can use to monitor their dog's behavior.

    Ultrasonic Collars

    • If you are nervous about the idea of using electric shock to correct your dog's behavior, an alternative is the ultrasonic collar. These collars emit a high-pitched sound that can be heard by dog ears but is inaudible to human ears. Some models also emit a warning sound, giving your dog the opportunity to correct its behavior before it is reprimanded with the high-pitched sound.

    Citronella Collars

    • Citronella bark-control collars release a distracting spray of citronella that effects four out of five of your dog's senses. Just as with shock bark-control collars, these collars are triggered by the sound of your dog's bark, as well as the vibrations in its throat.

    Indoor Bark Control

    • There also are bark-control methods that do not require a collar. Tabletop units can be used to train your dog, with no receiver necessary. Like the ultra sonic collars, these units emit a high-pitched sound that only your dog can hear. In addition to responding to your dog's bark, it also has a manual setting that you can activate. These units may be particularly useful if you are trying to break your dog's habit of barking when you have by visitors.