Dogs have all kinds of needs for proper care. These include medications for their health care, food, and even peripheral products to pamper your beloved pet. Training methods are in view as well.

So are you considering the purchase of a shock, ultrasonic or citronella dog bark collar? Wondering which is the most humane or dog-friendly? To learn more about each style of barking collar, including which one is the most humane and the most effective, keep reading.

Electric Shock Collars

Electric shock collars work by delivering a zap or shock to your dog’s neck each time he barks above a certain decibel level. So, would you put an electric shock collar on your child to prevent him or her from crying? A similar consideration should then be weighed concerning your dog wearing an electric dog bark collar.

Electric shocks are not only painful and irritating, but they can lead to serious, long-term behavioral problems. A dog that is shocked repeatedly will quickly become frustrated, fearful and possibly aggressive or overly anxious.

Ultrasonic Collars

Ultrasonic collars work by emitting a high-pitched noise every time your dog barks. Apparently, the noise is inaudible to humans, but very unpleasant for dogs. Unfortunately, not only do these collars not work very well, they may actually encourage barking.

The sound emitted is very high-pitched and ultrasonic. Unfortunately, many dogs don’t actually have ultrasonic hearing, meaning they wouldn’t be able to sense the collar siren anyway.

Besides being ineffective, the collar may actually encourage barking if your dog can hear it. Most dogs bark in response to a noise or as part of a call and response. If each time they bark they get a response, albeit a high-pitched wail, they may continue barking, but louder.

A Humane Choice - Citronella

Most animal activists and veterinarians agree that citronella spray collars are the most humane bark collar. Instead of issuing an electric shock or high-pitched noise when the dog barks, they simply automatically spray a small amount of citronella, which is an unpleasant smell for most dogs. Over time, the dog will learn to associate the citronella with its barking and will stop.

Where to Buy Citronella Spray Collars

The two most popular brands of citronella barking collars are the MultiVet No Dog Bark Spray Collar and the Premiere Gentle Spray Anti-Bark Collar.

The Premiere Gentle Spray Anti-Bark Collar is fairly expensive and typically retails for around $70 or $80, though it has been spotted for as low as $35. It comes with a full can of citronella, and the batteries are easily replaceable.

The MultiVet No Dog Bark Collar costs slightly less, but is better suited for smaller dogs. The collar is adjustable, though more able to carry the weight of the citronella pouch when it’s set to a smaller size.

Bookmark to: