There is some controversy surrounding the use, and some say abuse, of anti-bark collars for dogs.
Ready to go? Let’s get started then. First the positions in favor and the reasons that support it:
The main point in favor of an anti-bark collar is that it makes it much easier to prevent your dog from barking, so you are not tempted to resort to less tasty methods, such as hitting to discipline the dog.
The secondary plus point is that they are universally accepted as physically safe for dogs. There has never been a report of an injury resulting from a bark collar, not even one.
The third fulcrum will be that bark collars are a relatively inexpensive way to control your dog’s barking. It is certainly cheaper than hiring an expensive trainer.
A fourth point of support will be that your dog feels better, with more control of himself, when he learns to stick to the limits of barking.
Last but not least, the fifth point is that the collar makes it clear to the dog where the line is between natural barking and excessive barking, that it does not have to go any further.
And conversely, to keep the balance, the side of the Cons, against:
First of all, the downside will be that many people believe that anti-bark collars are cruel.
And the second negative point is that these same people believe that it is an excuse for the owner, that they simply do not want to take the time to train their dog.
The third point against will be that some people feel that since barking is a natural expression of dogs, owners should not restrict it.
His fourth point against is that there is a cost involved, it is not free as training your own dog would be.
Fifth and finally, against there are some people who will always believe that using any strange tool or implement to train an animal is simply morally wrong.
Now it’s been heard from both sides and the pros and cons are stacked, for and against.
Finally, then, what is the “bottom line” here? Is a bark collar good or bad?
We have a “Yes” answer to both questions! An anti-bark collar seems to be both good and bad! The decision should be left to the reader. Which side, good or bad, has the preponderance of the weight of opinion?