PetSafe Bark Control Collar Pros, Cons and Tips

Understanding Excessive Barking in Dogs

It's normal for dogs to bark, as barking serves many purposes for our canine companions. However, excessive or nuisance barking can become a real issue for dog owners and communities. As many as 23% of dogs are reported to bark excessively. Thankfully there are solutions, including the popular PetSafe bark control collars.

Common Causes of Excessive Barking

There are many reasons why dogs bark frequently and for long durations:

• Boredom, loneliness or anxiety
• Alerting owners to perceived threats or intruders
• Seeking attention or play
• Responding to external triggers like people, animals or noises
• Compulsive disorder in some cases

Consequences of Uncontrolled Barking

While pet parents usually adjust, excessive barking can negatively impact neighbors. Uncontrolled barking may also prompt fines or breed restrictions in apartments, neighborhoods and cities. For the dog, nonstop barking indicates underlying issues causing distress.

What is the PetSafe Bark Control Collar?

The PetSafe bark control collar was designed by veterinarian Dr. Lynn Buzhardt to safely and humanely stop problematic barking and howling.

How the Collar Works

The PetSafe bark collar utilizes patented Sensory Technology to differentiate between a dog's bark and other ambient noises. When triggered by a bark, the collar provides a safe but unpleasant static correction to deter future barking. This trains the dog to associate excessive barking with the mild shock sensation.

Benefits of the Collar

Owners choose the PetSafe bark collar because it:

• Is easy to fit and wear comfortably
• Allows customization of static level for dog's temperament
• Automatically increases correction intensity for persistent barkers
• Features waterproof design for use in any conditions
• Uses efficient battery saving technology
• Allows use of helpful accessories like collars and tags

How Effectively Does it Work?

The PetSafe collar provides consistent consequences to discourage nuisance barking. Most dogs will understand to limit barking within 30-60 days of initial use with proper fit and settings.

Pros of the PetSafe Bark Control Product

The PetSafe bark collar ranks among the top training collars due to its many advantages for both dogs and owners.

Safe and Humane for Dogs

Numerous built-in safety features prevent over-correction while an automatic shut off stops stimulation after 15 seconds. The correction level is always a harmless static pulse, never a shock.

Reduces Stress and Complaints

By curbing excessive vocalization, the collar promotes quieter, calmer surroundings which can improve a dog's anxiety. Less barking also decreases noise complaints and tenant or neighbor disputes.

Better Communication and Trust

Controlling problem barking helps dogs become more obedient. Owners enjoy taking their better behaved pets more places without embarrassing loud barking scenes. This increases opportunities for positive engagement, activity and enrichment.

Freedom to Travel and Relax

Pet parents no longer have to rush home to prevent bothersome barking episodes. Knowing their dog isn't bothering anyone brings peace of mind if they work long hours or want to go away overnight.

Alert and Guarding Instincts Remain

Most dogs will still announce visitors, protect territory and convey needs once unreasonable barking ceases. Important alarm and security benefits of a dogs bark are retained.

Cons Associated with the Bark Collar

While advantages often outweigh drawbacks for responsible owners, certain concerns exist regarding use of the collar.

Risk of Overuse by Frustrated Owners

Because initial training takes consistency and time, some owners over-rely on the collar rather than reinforcing quiet behavior through positive training methods. Using the collar too frequently can undermine trust and happiness.

Potential Skin Irritation

Metal probes contacting dog skin increase chances for irritation or reactions, especially with dogs having sensitivities or short fur. Checking fit routinely can prevent most skin issues.

May Not Address Root Causes

The collar stops nuisance barking symptoms but does not treat underlying reasons for excessive vocalization like stress, loneliness or sickness. Other training, exercise and affection are still essential.

Collar Remains a Temporary Tool

If barking returns once collar use stops, the core problem triggering loud barking is likely still present. Reassessment of contributing factors may be required to help dogs kick the habit for good.

Bans in Certain Regions

Legal restrictions have led some areas to prohibit devices like bark collars. Be sure to investigate status before purchasing or using the product.

Achieving Optimal Results with the Collar

Employing a few helpful strategies and reasonable expectations can lead to the best experience with the PetSafe bark control collar for both guardian and pet.

Properly Introduce and Fit the Collar

Allow your dog to become comfortable wearing the collar for short periods before activating it. Ensure optimal tightness so that extended contact points meet skin without inhibiting movement, panting or swallowing.

Use Intermittently at Low Settings

Utilize the lowest effective static level and give your dog breaks from wearing the collar to prevent over-correction. This promotes trust and limits reactions.

Reinforce Quiet Behavior with Praise and Treats

Reward your dog with affection, play and high value treats whenever they are calmly quiet to offset the discouragement of problem barking with the collar.

Address Possible Underlying Issues

If excessive vocalization persists despite proper collar use, underlying physical or emotional issues may be present requiring veterinary or training guidance.

The PetSafe bark control product can successfully and humanely curb bothersome barking with compassionate use and realistic expectations about trainable behavior changes.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.