Barking is a natural dog behavior, but it isn't always welcome and can, in some cases, quickly become an annoying habit. Not just for you either, having a barking dog inside your home while you are out can cause some seriously bad blood with the neighbors. Unfortunately, It can also be challenging to teach your dog when to bark and when not to bark.
One of the best solutions to incessant barking and whining, especially when you aren’t home, is to get a bark collar. Unlike remote training collars, these convenient devices help to curb your dog’s barking or bad behavior automatically.
So, which are the best dog collars on the market? In this bark collar review, we have picked only the best brands to suit your dog, whether they're large or small.
Table of Contents
It’s hard to crown a single winner, as the best bark collar is going to be dependent on the dog that will be wearing it, but if we had to point you in one direction, we’d recommend the SportDog Brand No-Bark collar. It’s advanced technology limits accidental shocks, and it’s affordable and durable, too.
Here are some other choices:
The SportDog Brand No-Bark collar is one of the best bark collars on the market in 2019. It uses Silent Partner technology to filter your dog's barking style and eliminate false alarms.
We love the superior bark detection feature. It picks up your dog's unique bark using Silent Partner technology and then filters other noises. This technology allows the collar to function well in a single-dog home or a kennel.
It can also last up to 200 hours on a single charge, and as it is waterproof, you won't have to worry about this collar getting damaged should your dog wander into a puddle or play in the rain.
Despite its excellent detection system, like all bark collars, this option may randomly go off on an active dog, shocking them unnecessarily. It’s also one of the more expensive models on the market, but we feel its features justify the price.
The Sport Dog No Bark Collar is an all-round collar that will benefit you and your dog for quite a while. It is durable and high-quality but be prepared to pay top dollar for it.
This high-quality bark collar features six levels of static correction, which is decent for the price. It has an outstanding feature that allows it to set the stimulation levels according to your dog's bark.
Although this collar uses shock value to control your dog, the shock will stop after fifty seconds as there is an in-built auto-safety shutoff feature. We also love the low battery indicator that alerts you when it is time to change your bark collar’s battery. This feature ensures your dog’s collar is always charged.
This collar won't work for larger dogs as the maximum leg size is 28-inches. Likewise, it can't be used for very small dogs under 8 pounds. It also only works with PetSafe brand batteries, and if you need to replace them, this can be limiting.
This affordable waterproof bark collar has decent features that will train your dog in no time. In addition to being waterproof, it also controls the stimulation and shock rendered to your dog automatically.
This smart dog collar is humane and technology-packed. With this bark collar, you’ll only need to use shock as a last resort, when all other control methods have failed to work on your dog.
We love the smart detection features built into this bark collar. This collar will protect your dog from abuse. As soon as it detects seven shocks or stimulation uses within a minute, it will deactivate itself. The rechargeable battery is also long-lasting—you can go 14 days on a single charge. It features an anti-false trigger microprocessor that can differentiate between your dog's bark and other dogs' barks, too.
This collar can’t be left on your dog's neck for more than 12 hours and needs to be repositioned every 1-2 hours.
We recommend this static shock collar as it's affordable, has decent technology, and is waterproof. It also has a protection plan that includes a full refund within the first 30 days of purchase.
The DogRook bark collar is an effective training tool to help correct barking without the use of shock technology.
This remote bark collar is straightforward to use and uses vibration rather than a shock to deter barking. Setting it up is as simple as putting it on your dog and adjusting the vibration level up or down with the two-button control system. This bark collar is also lightweight, comfortable, and waterproof.
Stubborn dogs may ignore the vibration and bark anyway as it’s a gentler deterrent than a shock or scent burst. There have also been complaints about the battery compartment being too loose, allowing them to dislodge. Worse, the batteries aren’t rechargeable and have to be replaced periodically.
This collar is a nice option to try before resorting to a shock collar. It is also affordable and highly weatherproof and waterproof.
![PetYeah [Upgraded 2019] Dog Anti Bark Collar Smart Detection Adjustable Collar Rechargeable Rainproof Beep Vibration Shock 5 Sensitivity Humane & Harmless Bark Collar for Small Medium, Large Dog](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51zOMCiPfFL.jpg "PetYeah [Upgraded 2019] Dog Anti Bark Collar Smart Detection Adjustable Collar Rechargeable Rainproof Beep Vibration Shock 5 Sensitivity Humane & Harmless Bark Collar for Small Medium, Large Dog")
This rechargeable and waterproof bark collar has a convenient battery display and five adjustable sensitivity levels. It also has an adjustable strap made of premium-grade nylon that fits even the largest 150-pound dog.
We love the sophisticated auto-protect system that aims to ensure only your dog's barking triggers the collar. In the non-shock mode, as the dog barks, the collar vibrates. In shock mode, if your dog continues to bark, the device will stimulate six times, stops for two minutes, and then return to the first mode to protect your dog.
On occasion, other dog's barking or loud noises can activate the color despite the safety mechanism designed to prevent this.
This collar can be used effectively without the shock feature. It is also easy to operate and charge and holds the charge pretty well.
This collar is a smart, no-shock, no-spray option made of durable nylon webbing to withstand all types of weather conditions.
We love the no shock technology on this collar. A simple beep and buzz, and soon your dog will be under control! The reliable plastic buckle ensures that the collar stays on your dog's neck, and the rounded edges prevent chafing and irritation.
It also has a lightweight control unit with seven correction levels. This collar is ideal for small to large dogs weighing 10 – 100 lbs.
Vibration and sound alone may not be enough to stop stubborn dogs from barking. Some users also complain the sensor would pick-up any noise their dog made, not just loud barking, which could lead to an anxious dog.
This no shock collar is perfect if shock control puts you off. It is lightweight, durable, and adjustable, making it suitable for small to large dogs.
This little dog collar uses a progressive correction level to help curb small your dog's unwanted barking. It is also affordable and cost-efficient.
Small dogs are vulnerable, and this product is gentle enough for them. The collar is lightweight and adjustable with no metal prongs attached, too. We love the humane and gentle, no-shock technology. The collar is well designed, attractive, and lightweight in keeping with the requirements of small dogs.
This device may need a continual adjustment to stay properly placed.
The Mini Bark Collar is the ideal choice for correcting your small dog’s bark behavior. It has a progressive vibrating technique that teaches your pup to be quiet without harsh shock correction or sharp prongs.
![SMARTWOOD Bark Collar [2018 Upgrade Chip] Dog No Bark Collars with Vibration and Harmless Shock(Can Be Switched Off)-USB Rechargeable Anti Barking Device for Small Medium and Large Dog](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51guMAf%2BfAL.jpg "SMARTWOOD Bark Collar [2018 Upgrade Chip] Dog No Bark Collars with Vibration and Harmless Shock(Can Be Switched Off)-USB Rechargeable Anti Barking Device for Small Medium and Large Dog")
The SMARTWOOD bark collar is lightweight, no-harm, and ideal for small dog breeds. It has a convenient digital display that shows the vibration, shock, and sensitivity gears clearly, and has seven adjustable sensitivity levels.
We love this lightweight bark collar! Your small dog will hardly notice it on them, and it is gentle in its correction. Automatic protection will deactivate the collar if activated seven times within one minute to protect your small dog. This collar also has a stable, waterproof housing that makes it weatherproof and durable.
This bark collar is only suitable for dogs over six months old that weigh more than six pounds. There have also been some complaints about SMARTWOOD’s customer service.
As far as small dogs go, this collar is one of the best on the market. It is lightweight, no-shock, and features a convenient auto-protection system to keep your small dog from being unnecessarily corrected.
A bark collar is a device that controls your dog’s behavior by using negative stimuli. It works when your dog barks, howls, or whines when they aren’t supposed to.
Bark collars have come a long way, and do not harm or traumatize your dog if used correctly. Many even have auto-protection features to safeguard your dog’s wellbeing.
Before the advent of the bark collars, trainers used prongs and choke-chain collars, which could be painful for the dog. There were also rudimentary bark collars that could go off even if your dog hadn’t barked, confusing them. You can also check out this written roundup post of all the best dog collars in the market today.
Modern bark collars have advanced and sophisticated technology that makes them easy to use. They are smart and durable and have auto safety shut off features and progressive levels of stimulation. Some can even differentiate between your dog’s barking style and other dogs’ barking styles as well as random noises.
A bark collar detects either certain sounds or throat vibrations that indicate your dog is barking. In reaction, a sound, vibration, shock, or scent is delivered to make the dog stop barking. This eventually causes your dog to associate barking with a reaction they dislike, and the habit is broken.
There is no single perfect collar, but there are many different types that suit varying breeds of dogs and your circumstances at home.
Every dog is different, and they will respond to negative stimuli differently. Some collars may work with some dog breeds, while others will be woefully ineffective. It may take some trial and error to find the right deterrent for your dog.
Some dog owners also object to static shock collars. While most dog collars are humane, if you feel you can’t use this type of correction stimuli, there are many other collars at your disposal. It is not a must to use shock therapy on your dog. In fact, the Humane Society recommends this type of correction only as a last resort.
Ultrasonic bark collars use annoying sounds as a negative stimulus. These sounds are quite high-pitched and in some cases, can only be heard by your dog.
Whenever your dog barks, a high-pitched noise is emitted from the dog bark collar that not only distracts your dog from barking but is unpleasant. The ultrasonic sounds emitted from the bark collar do not hurt your dog in any way.
Electric bark collars, also known as E-shock collars, are the most controversial collars out there, and many pet parents tend to avoid them. However, modern electric shock collars are humane and safeguard against abuse of the dog with auto-protection features, and auto safety shutoffs.
These collars deliver a small electric shock to your dog when he begins to bark. They progressively provide different levels of electric shock until your dog stops barking.
These bark collars deliver a whiff of citronella spray to your dog when they bark inappropriately. Dogs hate citronella and mint, and so this collar is beneficial. This device is also ideal for those pet parents who are opposed to electroshock behavioral therapy.
Dogs will do anything to avoid the smell of citronella, so this behavioral control method is beneficial.
Are dog bark training collars effective? We certainly think they are if used appropriately, but the many pet parents don’t believe in them.
Bark collars stop your dog from incessantly barking, but this may not always be appropriate, as in, for instance, in case of a burglary or fire. So, be sure to use this collar wisely to prevent rendering your dog useless in an emergency.
If you have a dog that barks and whines non-stop, a bark collar might be the perfect tool to use to correct their behavior. Falling out with your neighbors will be a thing of the past once you adopt these collars.
Before you set out to buy the best dog bark collar, you need to be mindful of specific essential considerations. These include:
Make sure that your bark collar is of the highest quality for your desired price range. Go for premium-grade nylon webbing collars or leather collars that are weatherproof, waterproof, and likely to stand the test of time.
Many bark collars are not cheap, so make sure you get the best features for your money. In this instance, cheap is not the best option.
The second thing you need to consider is if your dog's bark collar fits your dog. Do not buy a bark collar without sizing your dog first.
Dogs can get skin and fur irritation or worse if they wear a bark collar that is too tight. While a collar that’s too big may become ineffective if it doesn’t stay secure and in place. Additionally, avoid using collars weighing more than 5 ounces on smaller dogs.
Do not rely on manufacturer sizing charts as these may be inaccurate. Always measure your dog using a cloth tape measure or ruler and string.
Bark collars do not have remote capability, but if you’re uncomfortable stopping all barking, a remote training collar that you manually activate may be a solid alternative. The range on these collars varies from 1,000 – 3,000 feet—a convenient feature that allows you to control your dog with ease from afar.
Some bark collars come with rechargeable batteries that help keep continued costs down. Look for bark collars with a quick charge mechanism. These collars take only one of two hours to charge but can last for up to two weeks.
Also, aim for a bark collar that can work with any battery, and not just those provided by the manufacturer.
Dogs are active creatures, and they love the outdoors. As bark collars are not cheap, it is essential to ensure that your collar is rainproof and waterproof. This feature will ensure your bark collar keeps working whether your dog goes out in the rain, or wanders into the mud, snow, or shallow waters.
Dog bark collars can be expensive. While price isn’t always indicative of quality, don’t be tempted to go for cheap collars that may not last long. Balance quality and cost features before zeroing in on a particular brand of a collar.
Make a point of noting how people who have bought a particular bark collar have rated it. If most verified previous customers have given good reviews, then that collar is most likely a good one.
Bad reviews should not be ignored, as they give a window into what you're most likely to experience with that brand of a collar. Also, consider customer care, as in the event you need support, they'll be vital in putting things right.
Finally, always go for a collar that is effective for your dog. Consider whether your dog is nervous, large, or small, and look for the best collar for them.
Try to test your collar beforehand. Most reputable brands offer 30-day to 1-year money-back guarantees, so if one model of bark collar doesn't work for you and your dog, you can easily exchange it for another.
We hope you enjoyed our review and buyer's guide. We did our best to cover the best dog collar brands out there.
If you’re one of the many pet parents who are at their wits end with incessant barking, then a bark collar will be a welcome relief. Our list covers all the top bark collars from the ultrasonic, light, spray, and static shock collars. These bark collars can be used with a variety of dog breeds.
Expert Tips:
Use your bark collar wisely to get the best results from your dog, and always be mindful of your dog’s safety. Don’t leave the bark collar on if it doesn’t need to be on and always follow manufacturer instructions when using your dog bark collar.
Have you tried other bark collars? Which ones, and how did they work for you? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comment section below.
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