Choosing the right bark collar for a long haired dog breed requires careful consideration to ensure safe, effective training. This comprehensive guide will help you select the perfect bark collar for your furry friend.
An Overview of Bark Collars for Long Haired Dogs
Long haired dog breeds like Golden Retrievers, Collies, Siberian Huskies, and Afghan Hounds have thick, lush coats that can interfere with the functionality of standard bark collars. Their fur often dampens the intensity of shock or vibration, rendering the collar ineffective.
Fortunately, several reputable brands design bark collars specifically for long haired dog breeds. These collars feature extended contact points to penetrate the fur and reach the skin. They also have adjustable straps to accommodate thick necks.
When shopping for a bark collar for your long haired dog, keep the following factors in mind:
Adjustable Strap Length
The collar should fit snugly without constricting your dog’s neck. A loose collar will slide around and fail to deliver consistent corrections. The ideal fit allows you to slide two fingers between the strap and your dog’s neck.
Longer Contact Points
Standard contact points (3/8” to 1/2”) won’t penetrate thick fur. Look for collars with 1/2″ to 1″ contact points to ensure stimulation is delivered to the skin. This includes breeds like Yorkies with thick undercoats.
Multiple Correction Modes
Vibration, shock, and citronella spray give you flexibility to find the right deterrent for your dog. Start with the gentlest setting and work your way up as needed.
Waterproof Design
Protection from the elements ensures the collar keeps working during outdoor training and activities.
Rechargeable Battery
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries last 300-400 charges. They keep working consistently compared to disposable batteries that lose power over time. This ensures reliable corrections.
5 Best Bark Collars for Long Haired Dogs
1. PetSafe Elite Little Dog Bark Control Collar
- Adjustable neck size from 6″ to 26″
- Contact points up to 3/4″ long
- 15 levels of static correction
- Waterproof receiver collar
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Automatic safety shut-off
Key features: The PetSafe Elite collar is designed for small dogs but works great for long haired breeds of any size. The 3/4″ contact points penetrate thick coats effectively. Adjustable correction from level 1-15 allows you to tailor the intensity to your dog’s needs. Waterproof construction holds up during outdoor play and training.
Overall, this collar offers customizable, consistent stimulation to end excessive barking in long haired dog breeds. It’s easy to fit and operates reliably in any environment.
2. Dogtra 1900NCP Field Star Bark Collar
- Fits neck sizes 5″ to 22″
- 1″ long stainless steel contact points
- 100 levels of stimulation
- IPX9K waterproof rating
- NiMH rechargeable battery
- Variable bark detection sensitivity
Key features: With 1″ contact points and 100 intensity levels, the Dogtra 1900NCP provides pinpoint stimulation through the thickest coats. The fully waterproof receiver collar keeps working rain or shine. Advanced bark detection technology precisely targets your dog’s barking to avoid false corrections.
Overall, this premium collar allows customized training for even the most stubborn barking issues in long haired breeds. Just be sure to closely supervise use and keep it on the lower settings.
3. Casfuy Bark Collar for Large Dogs
- Fits neck sizes 14″ to 26″
- 3/4″ contact points
- 10 sensitivity levels
- Beep, vibration, and shock modes
- IP67 water resistant
- Lithium-ion battery
Key features: With a rugged water resistant design and varied correction modes, this Casfuy collar is ready for big dogs who love the outdoors. The beep and vibration settings provide warning before resorting to shock corrections. Adjustable sensitivity helps avoid false triggers, making training more effective.
This collar strikes a balance between durability, customization, and safety during bark training for big long haired breeds. The beep/vibrate/shock combo works well.
4. Mockins Bark Collar for Dogs
- Fits necks 6” to 26”
- 3/4″ contact points
- Sensitivity and volume control
- Beep, vibration, and 7 levels of static shock
- IP67 waterproof
- Rechargeable battery
Key features: With an impressive beep/vibrate/shock combination, this collar covers all the bases when it comes to deterring excessive barking. Adjustable sensitivity reduces accidental corrections, while the seven shock levels allow you to tailor the intensity as needed. Waterproof design holds up in wet conditions.
Overall, this collar offers well-rounded functionality to safely and effectively train long haired dog breeds. The beep and vibrate modes provide warnings before utilizing shock corrections.
5. PATPET Bark Collar
- Fits necks 7″ to 25”
- 3/4″ contact points
- Shock and vibration modes
- 10 sensitivity and shock levels
- IPX7 water resistant
- Lithium-ion battery
Key features: This PATPET collar provides customizable shock correction along with gentler vibration warnings. The 10 sensitivity settings prevent false corrections, while 10 shock levels let you find the right intensity for your dog. With snug adjustability and 3/4″ contacts, it’s a great choice for long haired breeds.
For those seeking a streamlined yet effective collar that deters barking through vibration and shock, this model hits the mark. It’s a quality product offering balanced functionality.
What to Look for in a Bark Collar for Long Haired Dogs
Correct Contact Points
Long contact points between 3/4″ and 1″ ensure the electrodes can penetrate your dog’s thick fur and make direct contact with the skin for consistent performance. Standard 1/2″ points usually won’t cut it.
Snug Fit
A loose collar will shift around the neck and deliver intermittent, ineffective corrections. Measure your dog’s neck and choose a collar with adjustable tightness so you can achieve a secure fit.
Waterproof Construction
Since labs, goldens, collies and other long haired breeds love swimming and outdoor adventures, select a rugged waterproof collar that keeps working in wet conditions. This ensures reliable training anywhere.
Safety Features
Look for collars with adjustable sensitivity to avoid false triggers, as well as warning beeps/vibrations before shock correction. Adjustable shock intensity also helps customize the stimulation strength.
Multiple Correction Modes
Having the option of vibration, citronella spray, or shock allows you to find the right deterrent based on your dog’s temperament and sensitivity level. Introduce corrections gradually.
Rechargeable Battery
Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries last 300-400 charges. They keep working consistently compared to disposable batteries that lose power over time. This ensures reliable corrections.
How to Introduce Your Long Haired Dog to a Bark Collar
Sudden introduction to shock or vibration can startle your dog and undermine training. Follow these tips for a smooth acclimation process:
- Let your dog wear the inactive collar for a few days to get accustomed to the feel before turning it on. Provide praise and treats for calm behavior.
- When you activate the collar, start with the lowest level of stimulation. Observe your dog’s reaction closely.
- Increase intensity gradually over multiple sessions until you find the minimum level that deters barking.
- Use warning beeps and vibration before resorting to shock. This allows your dog to correct their behavior before receiving a correction.
- Closely supervise the first few training sessions to ensure your dog is responding well. Don’t leave them unsupervised with an activated collar.
- Pair corrections with positive reinforcement of quiet behavior and verbal cues like “Quiet” so your dog understands the desired response.
- Monitor your dog’s neck area to make sure the contact points don’t irritate the skin. Move the collar regularly and take breaks.
Consistency and patience are key when introducing your long haired dog to a bark collar. Proper acclimation sets them up for training success.
Training Tips for Long Haired Dog Breeds
In addition to using a quality bark collar, incorporate these tips into your training plan to end excessive vocalization:
- Identify triggers: Monitor your dog to detect patterns. Does he bark when people pass by the yard or when you leave? Pinpointing causes allows you to mitigate them.
- Provide plenty of exercise: A tired dog is less likely to bark from pent-up energy. Make sure your high-energy breed gets sufficient walks and play time.
- Crate train: Giving your dog a quiet, covered crate trains them to settle down. It also prevents reactive barking when alone.
- Teach “Quiet” command: When your dog barks, calmly say “Quiet,” praise and reward when they stop. Consistency helps them learn.
- Use background noise: A TV, radio or white noise machine can help soothe anxious dogs prone to barking when alone.
- Avoid punishment: Yelling or rough handling can make behavior worse. Maintain composure and use positive reinforcement.
- Consult a trainer: If excessive vocalization persists, seek help from a certified dog trainer to identify causes and create a customized training plan.
With time and consistency using both management strategies and a quality bark collar, you can control excessive barking for a more peaceful home.
Troubleshooting: When Bark Collars Aren’t Working
If your bark collar isn’t curbing vocalization in your long haired dog, try these tips:
- Ensure proper fit – The collar must be snug with long contacts touching the skin. Check fit regularly.
- Increase intensity – Thick fur dampens vibration/shock so your dog may not feel lower settings. Slowly augment intensity.
- Shave neck area – Trimming around contact points helps stimulation penetrate. Only do this if needed.
- Check battery – Weak batteries equal weaker stimulation. For consistent corrections, make sure the battery is fully charged.
- Evaluate placement – Constant barking might mean the collar is shifting. Try placing higher or lower on the neck.
- Use a warning tone – The beep cue tells your dog to cease before correction. It enhances communication.
- Have patience – Behavior change takes time and consistency. Stick with the training for best results.
- Consider a citronella collar – The spray deterrent works for some dogs when shock/vibration fail.
If you’ve tried all these fixes with no luck, a consultation with a professional dog trainer can help uncover the root cause of excessive barking and determine the best solution.
5 FAQs About Bark Collars for Long Haired Dogs
Q: Where should I position the bark collar on my dog’s neck?
A: Place the bark collar high on your dog’s neck close to the ears. This allows the contact points to work best through the thick coat found higher on the neck. Ensure a snug fit so the collar stays in consistent contact with the skin.
Q: Can I shave the hair around the contact points?
A: Light trimming around the contact points helps the stimulation penetrate through dense fur. But only do this if necessary and shave as little hair as possible. The collar should work through most coats if properly fitted.
Q: How tight should the bark collar be on a long haired dog?
A: The collar should be snug but not constricting. You should be able to slide two fingers between the collar strap and your dog’s neck. Periodically check that it’s not too tight by testing with two fingers. Proper tightness ensures consistent contact through the fur.
Q: How many seconds should a shock correction last for bark training?
A: Shock corrections should be 1-2 seconds long maximum to effectively get your dog’s attention and deter excessive barking. Quick stimulations are less stressful for dogs than prolonged shocks during training.
Q: Can I leave my dog alone with a bark collar on?
A: You should not leave your dog completely unsupervised with a bark collar, especially during initial training. It’s best to monitor your dog closely to ensure the collar is fitted and working correctly before leaving them alone briefly. Check for irritation after use.
Key Takeaways
- Look for bark collars designed specifically for long haired breeds, with extended 1” contact points and adjustable straps to achieve a secure fit.
- Correctly fitted bark collars should be snug around the neck so the contact points maintain contact with the skin through the fur.
- Prioritize waterproof collars that can withstand wet conditions and outdoor adventures.
- Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries provide long-lasting, consistent power compared to disposable batteries.
- Gradually introduce your dog to the bark collar, starting at the lowest stimulation level and giving warnings before corrections.
- Use positive reinforcement to encourage quiet behavior when introducing your dog to a bark collar.
- If your collar isn’t working, first troubleshoot fit, placement, and intensity before consulting a professional trainer.
This comprehensive guide covered key factors to consider when selecting the right bark collar for your long haired dog. With patience and proper introduction, these collars can reinforce your training to curb excessive barking and enhance quality of life.
