Do Dog Barking Collars Really Work?
On One Hand: They are Effective Training ToolsDog barking collars work by delivering a correction either through a small shock, an irritating sound or the release of a startling and unpleasant spray. The dog quickly learns to associate cause and effect, since every time it barks there will be an unpleasant consequence.On the Other: Dogs Need to Bark to CommunicateDogs rely on barking to communicate feelings such as enthusiasm, frustration and anxiety. Stopping a dog from barking may be a quick fix, but it may mask behavior problems or needs that should be addressed. Using an anti-barking collar in this case is not a correct approach and may exacerbate the problem. Rather than stopping the barking, the underlying cause (in this case separation anxiety) should be addressed, according to Dr. Ilana Reisner.Bottom LineAnti-barking collars can be effective against nuisance barking. It is the owner’s responsibility however to first consider if his dog is barking because he needs something or
