How to Stop Barking With Collars

Many dog owners opt for special anti-barking collars if their canines become too loud or out-of-control. According to a 1996 study by the Animal Behavioral Clinic at Cornell's College of Veterinary Medicine, citronella anti-bark collars are more effective than electric shock collars, which some people find inhumane. Dr. Bonnie Beaver, a veterinarian at the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, says that shock collars excessively punish the dog, are ineffective due to several factors and are often overused, especially with remote-control devices. Instead, use a citronella no-bark collar that emits a fragrant spray when the dog barks. The non-toxic citrus spray is unpleasant to the dog, deterring him from continuing to bark.

Things You'll Need

  • Citronella no-bark collar
  • Batteries
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • 1

      Insert the batteries into the battery compartment of the collar. Different types of collars require different batteries. Read the manual or look at the battery compartment to find this information.

    • 2

      Turn the can of citronella spray upside-down and insert the nozzle into the spray reservoir. The spray reservoir is the plastic box on the collar where the spray is emitted from. This step may vary from one device to another.

    • 3

      Push down on the citronella can to release the spray into the spray reservoir of the collar. Hold for 15 seconds, or the amount of time indicated in the manufacturer's directions. Refill the spray reservoir before each use; otherwise the spray reservoir may run dry. The dog will learn that if he is persistent, the spraying will stop.

    Training

    • 4

      Remove any other collars on the dog.

    • 5

      Put the collar around the dog's neck with the microphone against the underside of the throat. The microphone will look like small holes in a circular pattern on the plastic box. Make sure at least two fingers fit comfortably between the collar and the animal's neck. Leave the collar in the "Off" position.

    • 6

      Have the dog wear the collar in the "Off" position for several days. This will get the canine accustomed to wearing the collar.

    • 7

      Bring the dog into a situation that may trigger barking, such as on a walk. Set aside a time of day that will give you plenty of time to work with your dog. When the dog barks, do not say "No" or any other command. The microphone on the collar will detect the bark and spray the non-toxic citronella toward the dog's muzzle. The dog may sneeze or shake his head.

    • 8

      Say "Good quiet" when the dog is silent, followed by a dog treat. Repeat the training process until the dog stops barking. Depending on the dog, the length of training time will vary.