When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you.
Bark collars are a corrective tool used to tame a dog’s inappropriate or excessive barking. They consist of a collar, which is placed around the canine’s neck.
Inside the collar is a small microphone which sends signals to the dog training collars to release a deterrent if excessive noise is made.
This deterrent should train the dog that with excessive barking, a minor annoyance occurs. After consistent wearing of the collar, the deterrent should discourage the dog from barking for excessive lengths of time. Click here to see our #1 pick on Amazon.com
Top 3 Best Anti Bark Collar on the market in 2020 Reviews
Benefits and Uses of an Anti Bark Collar
Many find dog bark collars useful as barking, an instinctive part of a dog’s nature, can often not be corrected by mere talking techniques. Using one of the best bark collars decreases the likelihood of an owner getting frustrated and using ‘smacking’ techniques to control their dog.
Purchasing and maintaining a bark collar comes at a much less of a cost then hiring a trainer, which charge between $100-$200 for a one-on-one session. The most obvious advantage of using a dog training bark collar is that it makes training an excessive barker easy and consistent. This helps alleviate possible mixed signals a pup may receive from an owner trying to be vigilant with training.
Bark collars are set in a manner which allows the sensors to differentiate between appropriate barking (whether it be as part of play or as a warning) and excessive, inappropriate barking and corrects accordingly, meaning both you and your dog know what is and is not acceptable.
Top 3 Best Bark Control Collar Reviews
There are many substandard bark collars on the market that claim to get the job done. Truth be told, they don’t. Our job is to separate the good from the bad and that’s why we’re here to present you with the top 3 best bark collars in the market. Dependable, long lasting, and certain to train your pup fast.
1. Dogtra YS500 – Best Bark Collar 2020
The Dogtra YS500 is a bark collar that’s strong enough for bigger dogs over fifty pounds but gentle enough to avoid hurting them. This model is triggered by the vibrations of your dog’s throat (not ambient noise) and can be set to seven different intensity settings to discourage your furry friend from barking all night.
Our Rating: (4 / 5)
Designed for medium to large stubborn pets, the Dogtra YS500 no bark collar offers seven levels of correction to curb your dog’s motivation to bark and temperament. Adding to this, this range of Dogtra training collars is completely rechargeable and waterproof so you can even train your pet in inclement weather.
It is appointed with a vibration sensor that detects the movement of your pet’s vocal chords, and consequently activates the Dogtra shock collar.
Highlights of the Dogtra YS500 Bark Collar
- Seven correction levels that can be adjustable with the dial
- Perfectly suited for medium to large dogs
- Waterproof design
- Onboard sensor to pick up the vibration of the dogs vocal chords
- 3 year warranty
- Rechargeable anti bark collar
- No bark collar with collar strap
- Test tool and charger
Features and Design of the Training Collar by Dogtra
The YS500 range of Dogtra collars is designed for large dogs and hence it is slightly heavy, but this is understood considering the powerful functionality it brings to the table. Unlike other anti bark collars in the Dogtra range that use a microphone to detect barks, the YS500 steps it up a few notches with a unique vibration sensor.
A microphone sensor is extremely sensitive to an extent that it will even detect barks from other dogs. Contrarily, a vibrating sensor such as the one fitted with the YS500 detects the bark right from the dogs throat so the results are more practical and effective, and less likely to be a false alarm.
The Dogtra bark collar offers seven adjustable levels of correction to prevent your dog from barking. In addition, it also features a progressive mode to gradually increase or reduce these correction levels automatically according to the pets bark.
One of the noteworthy features of the Dogtra shock collar is its rechargeable battery that takes approximately 10 hours to replenish its power. The charging process is fairly simple, where you simply connect the included charging cable to the jack on the collar and the other end into a power outlet. When fully charged, the battery will last for an amazing 15 days or so, but it is important to never charge when the dog is wearing the collar.
The Dogtra collar is also washable, but must be done gently and by hand. Tighten the battery cap before you wash the collar, use mild detergent and dry thoroughly.
Putting the collar on your dog is as easy as charging it, where you bring your dog in a comfortable standing position, position the contact points correctly and come in contact with its skin. Place the collar on the dog’s neck while setting it in position by placing a finger under the base.
The Dogtra no bark collar should not be used with any other collars or in combination with a leash.
It is also advisable to check your dog’s skin around its neck every couple hours while it is wearing the YS500 collar for any skin reactions, irritations or discomfort. The Dogtra bark collar is backed by a 1 year warranty, but considering its superior build quality, the chances of claiming it are slim to none.
Pros and Cons of the Dogtra Training Bark Collar
- Waterproof design
- Rechargeable
- Included self test tool
- Perfect for breeds over twenty lbs
- Seven correction modes
- 1 year warranty
- Convenient dial with on/off functionality
- Not recommended for small dogs under six months or twelve lbs
- Dogs may feel initial discomfort when wearing the collar for the first time.
2. SportDOG Rechargable NoBark 10R – Top Rated Bark Collar 2020
If you’re looking for an intelligent bark control collar to make sure your dog learns without getting hurt, this 10R model from SportDOG makes it easy for you to adjust for your dog’s particular habits. With its two input safety system (both barking and throat vibration), you can be sure that when it’s going off, it’s your dog that’s doing the barking.
Our Rating: (4.1 / 5)
Waterproof, rechargeable and durable, the Sportdog 10r is built to last, and is also outfitted with Perfect Bark technology, which automatically provides consistent and fair correction when it’s sensors are triggered with both the sound and vibration from your dog.
Highlights of the Sportdog SBC-10R
- Waterproof design up to 25 feet
- Long life rechargeable battery
- 10 levels of correction
- Features Perfect Bark technology to eliminate errors
- 3 correction modes to suit your dog’s temperament
- Three different color indicator lights to display low battery and modes
- Lightweight at just 4.8 oz including strap
- Backed by a manufacturers 1 year warranty on parts and labor
Features and Design of Sportdog NoBark 10R
There are several reasons why the Sportdog 10r is one of the best bark collars you can get your hands on today starting with itspatented sensor system and 3 modes of operation. This unique sensor system offers highly accurate bark detection, and works by rendering a static correction via its embedded sensors only in the event it detects both sound from the bark and vibration from the vocal chords of your dog.
The Sportdog bark collar gives you a choice of three modes of operation, which dictate how corrections are given. The three different color LED lights and the display combination indicate which mode is in use.
-
- Temperament Learning Mode
This mode will be activated initially when your dog barks. During this mode, the correction begins at the lowest level and progresses gradually to the next level in 30 second intervals of the previous bark. If the dog stops barking, the correction level will drop to 1.The memory feature of this Sport dog collar remembers the last level of correction so when you restart the collar, the last level of correction anywhere between 1 and 10 will be used as a starting point.
-
- Progressive Correction Mode
When engaged in this mode, the correction will also begin at the lowest level and slowly progress in periods of 30 seconds of the previous bark. And if your dog does not bark again for the next 30 seconds, the Sportdog training collar resets to the lowest correction level in that mode.
-
- User Selective Correction Mode
This mode allows you to set the correction level for your dog manually. The beauty of this mode is that you can initially set the level low and only switch levels if needed depending on your dog’s response. The end result is that you will have configured the perfect level for your dog.
-
- Single Button Functionality
The Sportdog nobark 10r is fitted with a single button, which controls all the functionality of the collar including turning it off/on, changing and displaying the current operating mode. To turn the Sportdog rechargeable bark control collar on, press and release the button and you will notice the green light flash five times and display the current operating mode.
To turn the collar off, press the button until the display shuts off and the red light comes on. Then let go of the button, the red light will flash four times and then stop flashing completely, meaning the device is turned off.
Take note that continuing to push the button for more than 5 seconds will only change modes, and not turn the collar off. So to switch between modes, simply press the button and hold in place for at least 5 seconds, and you will notice the mode advance to the next one every two seconds. When you reach your desired mode, release the button to engage it.
How to Fit and Charge the Sportdog SBC-10R
It is important to fit the collar on your dog for it to work effectively. First, the contacts points or the sensors should be in touch with the underside of your dog’s skin for them to detect vibrations and barks.
First, make sure the collar is off and stand your dog comfortably. Next, place the collar on your dog’s neck, and position the contact points closer to its ears. Insert a finger between one of the contact points and your dog’s neck to check for tightness. The result should be a tight fit, but not constricting.
The Sportdog nobark 10r comes with a rechargeable battery pack, which should be charged when the icon on the display indicates a bar or less. Generally, the unit will be due for replenishment every 30 – 60 days, but this also depends on how often your dog barks. To preserve battery life, turn the Sportdog bark collar off when not in use.
Alternatives to the SportDog 10r
For less than 10 levels of correction, you can opt for the SportDOG – SBC-6 no bark collar that offers 6 levels of correction. Weighing just 1.5 ounces, the SportDOG – SBC-6 is a completely waterproof unit, requires no programming whatsoever and automatically adjusts to your dog’s barks. It comes with a user replaceable lithium ion battery and is backed by a 1 year manufacturer’s limited warranty.
But for higher levels of correction, the Sportdog Bark Control offers 18 levels of correction. Perfect for neck sizes from 6 to 28 inches, the 18 level Sportdog Bark Control collar is outfitted with dual sensor technology, a low battery warning light and requires no prior programming.
3. DogTek Electronic Bark Control – Good Dog Collar to buy
What you’re getting with this collar from Electronic No Bark Collar from DogTek is a bark collar designed for dogs over fifteen pounds that safely and humanely discourages your dog from excessive barking. While other collars can sense a rise in sound and deliver a gentle shock based on the noise, this idea means that, occasionally, your dog will receive a shock based on another dog’s bark and the training becomes moot.
Our Rating: (4 / 5)
To overcome this problem, the DogTek collar isn’t triggered by noise, but by the vibrations of your dog’s throat when he or she barks. When the collar detects a vibration from a bark, it first emits a gentle beep. If the barking continues, it releases a gentle electric shock not unlike a small burst of static electricity.
Highlights of the BC-60 Dogtek No Bark Collar
- Weatherproof
- Weighs just 3 ounces
- Replaceable battery
- Easy to adjust collar
- Warning beeps
- 3 adjustable modes
In the box, you’ll receive 1 adjustment screwdriver, 1 Dogtek anti bark collar, 1 neon test lamp, 1 battery, 1 pair of long and short studs, and a user guide.
The BC-60 no bark collar is perfectly suited for pets that are 15 lbs or greater, and provides static corrections that are simple and safe. Simply follow the instructions in the provided user guide to put the collar on the dog appropriately, and let it works its magic without interference. When your dog does stop barking as a result of the Dogtek anti bark collar, praise him/her and reward it with a treat for good behavior.
Best Bark Collar Buyers Guide
Will Dogs be Harmed by a No Bark Collar?
There is quite a lot of controversy regarding the safety and humaneness of training bark collars. There has been an extensive look at bark collar reviews to show that no harm comes to dogs from bark collars. Some dogs however, may suffer added anxiety from such devices.
As a responsible pet owner, it is ultimately your responsibility to determine whether this form of correction will work for your dog. It is recommended to start using the collar gradually. If any adverse temperamental reactions occur, cease using the no bark device immediately.
Bark collars will not harm your beloved fur baby if they are used appropriately. They should never be used on puppies or small dogs under 1 kilogram (2 pounds). If you have re-homed a rescue dog, it is highly recommended that you consider alternative means of barking correction. It is often unknown what kind of background these pups have come from, and such corrective measures may trigger anxiety from abuse they may have suffered prior to being welcomed into a loving family.
Types of Correction Bark Collars
There are three main varieties of bark collars readily available on the market.
- Citronella
The citronella bark collar has a small vile attached to the collar filled with a citronella-based fluid. It often has essential lemon and eucalyptus oil contained in the mixture.
When the sensors detect excessive vibrations from the dog’s vocal chords, a small mist is released from the anti bark collar towards the dog’s nose. The spray does not harm the harm the dogs nose, eyes or ears but is unsavory to canines.
After consistent use, dogs cotton on to the fact that with excessive barking comes this smell and therefore desist from continuous noise making. This is generally considered to be the most humane form of bark collar. An added bonus is that as well as this scent being unpleasant to dogs, it is also a flea repellent, and so, while pup is still learning to control his barking, the fleas will be kept at bay! Innotek makes an excellent citronella spray that encourages dogs to quiet up fast.
- Static or “shock”
Another form of bark collar is one that emits a low electric pulse when a dog’s barking becomes uncontrollable. These are favored by many because of their memory setting. Not all barking is bad. In fact,some barking is necessary (ie. warning barking). This type of shock bark collar allows owners to set the level to exactly what works for them.
Many brands also provide varying levels of shocks that increase as the dog continues to be unsettled. Reputable brands, like Sportdog, come with a safety setting. If the dog continues to bark for over one minute it will shut down for two to five minutes, so as to not be continuously shocking the dog. Though there is no evidence of a shock collar causing any harm to dogs, many people do not like to utilize this form of shock collar, as they are uneasy with this form of correction and many shock collar reviews state the same.
- Ultrasonic
The third common anti bark collar available is the ultrasonic collar. Once the sensor detects inappropriate noise from the canine, the collar sends out a high frequency pitch that only animals can hear. This form of bark control is akin to human shouting methods at a dog and is not harmful to their hearing.
Its aim is to annoy the dog into changing his behavior. This barking dog collar is considered the effective however some dogs, after prolonged use, will become accustomed to the pitch and is unlikely to react to it, states many bark collar reviews.
What the Best Bark Collars Contain When Buying
- Adjustable Settings
The majority of best dog training collars have adjustable settings which you can alter to best suit your pup. The more sophisticated models have built-in memory sensors which will automatically adjust the setting to what is most appropriate for the dog. Most electric pulse dog collars are equipped with automatic levels, which increase the intensity depending on how prolonged the barking is. Pet corrector spray collars generally have settings to increase/decrease the amount of spray released, but do not have continual level options.
- Batteries types
There are three common forms of power sources for bark control collars. These are alkaline, lithium or rechargeable batteries. Many fall into the trap of purchasing alkaline batteries as these are the cheapest to purchase initially. However, their shelf life is short, making them the most expensive option in the long run. Lithium batteries, though longer lasting than alkaline also need to be replaced, leading to a continuous cost. Rechargeable batteries are the optimal choice. Though they are significantly pricier in the beginning, there is no continual re-purchasing cost, making them the best value overall.
- Safety Features
It is important to thoroughly investigate the safety features of any potential dog bark collar. Most brands of no bark collars have a sensor which automatically switches the collar off if the dog barks for more than 90 seconds. There have been rare instances when these sensors have malfunctioned, so it is recommended that you do not have your dog wear a bark control collar when you are not at home.
Do’s and Don’ts for Bark Control
- The most important thing is to ensure your pup’s comfort. Make sure that the collar is snug and does not dig into part of the skin, and the best bark collars will come with instructions on how to fit them properly.
- Consider your dog’s temperament. No two dogs are the same. A dog barking collar that is effective for one dog may not work at all for another.
- Avoid single setting collars. These will either be too extreme for your dog, or your dog will become accustomed to the sensation and may not respond the way you wish to the repellent.
- Do your research. Ask friends, neighbors and your local vet what experiences they have had with bark collars. Shop around, as the same collar can vary in price depending on whether you purchase it from your veterinary clinic or a wholesaler. According to bark collar reviews, Sportdog, Petsafe, and Dogtra are some of the top choices on the market.
- Get the dog gradually used to the collar. People who rush the training process may find that the training does not work, or negatively alters the canine’s temperament. Never leave the bark collar on the dog when they are left alone.
Conclusion
The most important factor is to ensure the dog is having fun. Training is not supposed to be stressful for either human or canine. Dog Bark collars are not intended to take the place of all training, but to complement it. Combining a bark collar with a loving environment where your dog knows he will be rewarded for positive behavior, will ensure a happy dog that will content and less stressed.