Effectiveness of Bark Collars on Shelties

The effectiveness of bark collars on Shelties or more formally, Shetland Sheepdogs, depends on the level of obedience training and house manners for each individual dog and the type of collar used. Two more challenges present when considering using a bark collar on a Sheltie. The first is that Shelties are herding dogs that are predisposed to barking as they work, so in essence barking is part of their job. Secondly, getting a bark collar to fit correctly considering a Sheltie's heavy coat can be difficult.

  1. Types of Bark Collars

    • There are two types of bark collars on the market. The first is the electronic collar which uses an electric shock to curb unwanted barking, and the second, and much more humane choice, is the citronella bark collar which sprays a harmless but effective stream of citronella towards the dog's nose to curb unwanted barking. Both collar types are battery dependent. The citronella variety will need additional canisters. Longevity of canisters depends on the frequency of use.

    Bark Collar Mechanics

    • Bark collars of any type make an automatic correction to the neck or nose of the dog when the dog barks. The collar must be fitted properly so that it sits tight against the neck. The collar responds not to the noise of the bark but to the vibration of the vocal cords when a dog barks. All collars provide some sort of warning sound to the dog prior to delivery of a shock or spray. Most dogs learn quickly to avoid the unpleasant shock or spray and stop barking when the warning is sounded.

    Proper Training

    • Since each dog and dog owner have both unique personalities and individual levels of training, a certified dog trainer, certified canine behavior consultant or veterinary behaviorist should be consulted prior to using a bark collar. The choice to use a collar of a humane nature should be decided upon only after all other training methods have failed. Rule of thumb is that a bark collar should only be used when it is essential that nuisance barking be curbed.

    Warnings

    • Bark collars of both types are now readily available at many pet supply stores, big box stores and web stores. If you are going to purchase a bark collar for a Sheltie, purchase one of quality construction. Poorly made collars can malfunction and do more harm than good.

      Evaluate your Sheltie's training level and personality prior to using any bark collar. While Shelties are highly trainable, they can also be very sensitive. A bark collar used in an inappropriate manner will serve to create more behavioral problems than it will resolve.

    Considerations

    • The use of a bark collar will not only inhibit unwanted barking behavior, but also inhibit appropriate barking behaviors. The bark collar can not determine what your Sheltie is barking about, only that it is barking and that it needs to stop.