by Tom Ken
If your pooch tends to bark excessively when he sees something or for no reason at times, he can be very annoying. But did you know you can control this? Bark control devices are designed to correct this behavior.
However, not all of them work in the same way. Some use static shock or vibrations, while others use ultrasonic sound. There are many varieties in the market, but we have picked the best bark control devices to buy. Take a look!
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
---|---|---|
1. EXuby EXBTZ812 (Best Overall) |
| |
2. First Alert FABCU2G (Best Inexpensive) |
| |
3. Doggie Don't Device (Best Deterrent) |
| |
4. SportDOG Brand SBC-R (Best Intelligent) |
| |
5. Sunbeam SBBCU2-001 (Best Ultrasonic) |
| |
6. PetSafe PBC-102 (Best with a Long Battery Life) |
| |
7. PetLevelUp Dog Collar (Best with Multiple Training Levels) |
|
Due to its compact size, 3 operational modes, long wireless range, and reflective strap, the EXBTZ812 is our best product in this bark control review. It is one of the smallest bark controls and also comes with a small wireless remote that fits in the pocket easily.
The remote has a long 1000-ft wireless range, which allows you to train your pooch from distance. It gives you three training modes, where you can use sound, 9 vibration levels, or 9 shock levels. If shocking is too intense for your pooch, use the other two options.
Reflective and waterproof straps hold the collar receiver on your pet's neck, improving visibility if you go out at night for a walk. You also get interchangeable faceplates for male and female dogs (blue and pink).
The only problem is that the unit's compatible range is limited to dogs weighing 5 - 15 lbs.
Pros:
Cons:
Not all bark controls are expensive. Some like First Alert's FABCU2G are very affordable and are worth buying if you are on a tight budget. The unit uses ultrasonic sound waves that are safe for all dog breeds and only they can hear them.
It has a flashlight shape that fits perfectly in the palm. An adjustable wrist strap is included to secure the device to your arm for easy carrying.
The unit runs on 4 AAA batteries, but these are not included. You have to buy them separately. Also, it has a 15-ft effectiveness range, which is relatively short.
Pros:
Cons:
Doggie's device is unique because it incorporates the use of loud patented sound with over 100 decibels. This is equivalent to the noise produced by a Bell helicopter at 100 ft.
As such, it is one of the best dog barking deterrents because it will startle your pet, shut him up and probably cause him to move away. This loud noise makes the device ideal for personal protection in case a dog tries to attack you.
The unit comes as a complete set with a rechargeable battery, wrist strap for easy carrying, and a holster to attach to your belt or pants.
However, this cannot work on deaf dogs and might not be as effective on those that are partially deaf.
Pros:
Cons:
This bark control is very intelligent because it uses Silent Partner technology to identify your pet's unique barking style. As such, it won't provide false corrections in case another dog barks excessively close by.
Once identified, the device has three operational modes. The first option is a manual setting where you can choose between 10 static levels. Second is temperament learning, which starts at level 1 and increases every time your pooch barks within 30 seconds. This mode records which level works best for your pooch and automatically adjusts itself.
The third option is progressive correction and it operates just like temperament learning. However, it does not record the static level. Instead, it resets to level 1 after 30 seconds of being quiet.
Other than that, you get odor-resistant straps, a bright OLED display, and automatic shut-off after 80 seconds of inactivity. On the downside, the device is expensive and it lacks a wireless training option.
Pros:
Cons:
As the best ultrasonic bark control device in our review, Sunbeam's SBBCU2-001 works within a 50-ft radius, which is relatively long for this type.
Additionally, it has an LED indicator light to show when it is in use, and it shuts off automatically after 10 seconds of inactivity for battery conservation. There is also a low battery indicator to show when a replacement is due.
The unit has an egg shape design that fits perfectly in the palm, while an adjustable wrist strap secures it to your hand. However, the required 4 AAA batteries are not included.
Pros:
Cons:
PetSafe's PBC-102 runs on a non-rechargeable RFA-67 battery that can last for 1 - 3 months depending on the collar's use. It has a low battery indicator to show you when a replacement is due and an auto shut-off feature that stops correction after 50 seconds to conserve the battery.
The unit has nylon straps that fit dogs weighing at least 8 lbs. with a neck circumference of up to 27 inches. It provides 6 levels of automatically adjusting static correction to stop excessive barking. No programming is required as it implements progressive correction.
That said, the collar has a vibration sensor on the pooch's vocal cords to detect barking, which helps to prevent false correction. On the downside, there is no wireless option for manual training and the straps are not reflective.
Pros:
Cons:
With 3 training modes (tone, vibration & static stimulation) and 100 levels in the last two modes, this dog collar gives you multiple settings to work with. They come in handy when dealing with dogs having different temperament levels.
The device has a wireless training option where the remote has a long-range of 1000 ft. This remote features intuitive and colored interface buttons for easy use.
A protection mode is built in to stop correction automatically after 10 seconds if you accidentally press the vibrate or shock button. You also get a flashlight on the remote for illuminating your path in the dark.
The only issue is that the straps are not reflective to improve nighttime visibility.
Pros:
Cons:
Coming as a 2-piece set, PawPets' anti bark collar gives you good value for money, making it one of the best stop-barking devices. Each piece is suitable for small - large dogs weighing from 5 - 110 lbs. and with 9 to 22-inch necks.
They have two operational modes, which are a tone and 7 levels of vibration. The correction level is attained using progressive training, whereby the collars intelligently detect your pooch's barking style, then adjust the sensitivity automatically.
Key Features
This dog trainer is affordable but still contains very practical features. It is a handheld device that emits ultrasonic sound with an effective range of about 22 ft.
That said, the unit has 3 functions in one. They include a bright LED light, a training mode, and a stop barking mode for deterring or preventing attacks. The last two utilize ultrasonic sounds and can be used while the flashlight is on because it has a separate switch.
Key Features
If you have a small dog breed like a Yorkie, Chihuahua, Pomeranian, or Maltese, Exuby's bark collar is the best option to consider. Its nylon straps are adjustable with a diameter range of 2 - 7 inches, which is suitable for these breeds. Additionally, the piece weighs only 1.4 oz., which is light enough for these small pets to carry them comfortably.
The collar is run by a relatively new and innovative 2018 chipset that alternates between sound and vibration modes to train your pooch using the best intensity.
Key Features
The PBC00-11216 is one of the best anti-barking devices because it offers automatic bark control using ultrasonic sounds without the use of a collar. It has a birdhouse design with a metal hanger that you should use to place it within 5 ft. from the ground.
The house is waterproof and has an ultrasonic speaker that covers 1/4-acre or a radius of 50 ft. A microphone is built in to listen to barking sounds to activate the ultrasonic speaker. You also get a 4-level switch to adjust the intensity of the ultrasound.
Key Features
This bark control device is very similar to the PBC00-11216 due to its birdhouse design. It has a microphone that listens to barking sounds, after which it activates the ultrasonic speaker if your pooch barks excessively.
The unit has a digital alarm to turn the control measures on and off at specific times, which helps to desensitize your pooch to the ultrasonic sound. You also get a low battery indicator to show you when it is time to replace the 9V alkaline battery.
Key Features
Vibration Collar
These collars incorporate the use of vibrating pulses to correct your pooch gently.
Static Shock Collar
Static shock collars deliver mild corrective shock either automatically when your dog barks, or via a remote handheld device, which gives you manual control.
Ultrasonic
Ultrasonic bark controls are usually in the form of handheld devices, not collars. They produce sound waves that are inaudible to the human ear, but very sharp to dog ears. These will grab your pet's attention as you try to correct his excessive barking.
Spray Collar
Spray collars are designed to release a jet of citronella or other liquids to saturate your pet's snout whenever he barks excessively. This spray should stop the barking immediately.
Audible Sound
Audible sound bark controls produce a loud noise that startles dogs to the point of making them stop barking, or even deterring them.
Buying Guide: Vibration collars are ideal for non-aggressive dogs because the correction is not very intense. On the other hand, static collars are a bit more intense and most contain vibration modes. Therefore, they have an edge over the former, and this is why we recommend the EXBTZ812 as our best bark collar overall.
As for ultrasonic units, they are ideal for short-distance training because their range is relatively short, while audible sound controls are more suitable for deterring purposes.
In most cases, stubborn dogs need more intense bark control measures as compared to calm pooches. This is why you need multiple intensity settings.
Ideally, 5 - 10 levels are enough, but the more they are, the better. For instance, PetLevelUp's dog collar has 100 intensity levels on its vibration and static modes, making it ideal for training extremely stubborn pets.
This factor should only be considered for bark control devices with a wireless training option. Measured in feet, the wider the signal's coverage range, the better.
Dogs like to run off and they are quick. The idea here is to be able to access your pooch if he begins barking excessively at a distance. This is why units like EXuby's EXBTZ812 stand out. Its 1000-ft wireless range is very practical.
There are two main types. Rechargeable batteries do not require replacements, which makes them more eco-friendly. However, they take a long time to recharge and do not last very long.
On the other hand, non-rechargeable batteries last for quite some time, usually a month at least. However, they can be expensive and not environmentally friendly due to the replacements over time. Each type has its pros and cons, so pick whichever works for you.
Yes. Most people are misinformed about the static shock collar type, whereby they are told that it hurts the pet. However, these devices administer a low-level shock that only startles without causing harm.
Yes. You should only draw the line when it comes to puppies. You can use it on small dog breeds, so long as you follow the manufacturer's usage instructions. Check the age, weight, and neck size fitting requirements for each product, and more specifically the collars.
Apart from using the bark control device, you can desensitize him to noises by identifying what triggers the barking, then training him to be more tolerant to the noises. Also, you can come up with a cue to stop barking or even use a treat while telling him to be quiet.
That said, bark control devices are the most effective methods because they make the training easier. Some stop the barking automatically, while others require manual input.
This depends on your pooch. Some are more stubborn and require the device to be used more often for the training. With that in mind, collars should be worn for a limited time during the day, such as when you go out for a walk or hike. They can be uncomfortable, especially if your pet sleeps with one on. Thus, during these off times, you won't be able to train your pooch.
STOPWOOFER Ultrasonic Dog Training-Bark Control Device for Small Medium and Large - Walmart Link
STOPWOOFER Dog Bark Collar - No Shock, No Pain, Humane Barking Control Device for Small, - Walmart Link
Anti Barking Device, Bark Deterrent with 3 Adjustable Ultrasonic Level Control, Effective - Walmart Link
Anti Barking Device, Ultrasonic Bark Deterrents, Waterproof Bark Control Device for - Walmart Link
PESTON Ultrasonic Dog Bark Deterrent - Rechargeable Bark Control Device - Dog Barking - Walmart Link
Doggie Don't Device - Handheld Dog Repellent, Bark Control Device and Dog Training Aid - - Walmart Link
ZNFSZ Dog Barking Control Devices Dual Sensor 2-in-1 Ultrasonic Dog Training and Anti - Walmart Link
PawPets' anti bark collar - Walmart Link
STOPWOOFER Ultrasonic Dog Training-Bark Control Device for Small Medium and Large - eBay Link
STOPWOOFER Dog Bark Collar - No Shock, No Pain, Humane Barking Control Device for Small, - eBay Link
Anti Barking Device, Bark Deterrent with 3 Adjustable Ultrasonic Level Control, Effective - eBay Link
Anti Barking Device, Ultrasonic Bark Deterrents, Waterproof Bark Control Device for - eBay Link
PESTON Ultrasonic Dog Bark Deterrent - Rechargeable Bark Control Device - Dog Barking - eBay Link
Doggie Don't Device - Handheld Dog Repellent, Bark Control Device and Dog Training Aid - - eBay Link
ZNFSZ Dog Barking Control Devices Dual Sensor 2-in-1 Ultrasonic Dog Training and Anti - eBay Link
PawPets' anti bark collar - eBay Link
To sum it up, our best bark control is EXuby's EXBTZ812 due to its compact and convenient design. Additionally, it has 3 correction modes, a long 1000-ft range, and reflective straps for safe nighttime use.
However, if you prefer using a deterrent, Doggie's device is the best option because it produces a loud 100 dB sound. This startles pooches and would come in handy for personal protection.
SportDOG's Brand SBC-R is also worth checking out, specifically due to its smart design. It uses Silent Partner technology to learn your pet's barking style, then gives you the option to choose between three correction modes.
About Tom Ken
Tom has worked with many veterinary surgeons as a nurse at different veterinary clinics throughout his life.
There, he provides care for sick animals; such as: dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, hamsters, guinea pigs, and sometimes reptiles.
He has good work ethics and gentle hands; hence, the doctors as well the pet owners have come to love his presence alot.
With this site, he aims to help the readers ensure their pets' wellbeing, learn how to care, and proivide medical treatment as needed.
Joshua received Veterinary Technician Degree at Purdue University in West Lafayette, IN.
Pet Care Tips