Bark collars are a good option for pet owners who want to train their dogs or puppies. The dogs will be less likely to bark and go outside of the yard, as it is not humane for them to do so.
The dog does not have any idea that they are being punished because they can’t associate the shock with anything in particular. This is why this device should only be used after other options have been tried, such as obedience training and scolding your dog when it barks excessively.
If you use this method, remember that you need to keep an eye on your dog while they wear the collar—especially if there are children around who could get hurt by getting too close to the collar’s electric current. They should not be left unattended at any time with the collar on.
Also, you cannot use this device on a puppy under 6 months of age, and animals that are ill or in pain should never wear the bark collar, as it may make them more uncomfortable or lead to other health problems.
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How to test bark collar
Step 1:
To test your dog’s bark collar, first, make sure that it is working properly. Attach the collar around your dog’s neck and turn on the device. Use a training controller to give your dog a single short “correction”. The device should immediately startle or distract your dog from barking as soon as he begins.
This test should show that the bark collar does not cause physical pain to your dog.
Step 2:
Once you are sure the bark collar is safe, play with your dog while wearing it. Make sure that he still responds well to other forms of training while the device is turned off. If you notice negative changes in behavior while using the bark collar, stop using it immediately and contact your veterinarian. For example, your dog might become aggressive, fearful or more anxious than he usually is.
Step 3:
If the collar seems to be working well and is not harming your dog in any way, you can use it during times when excessive barking is an issue. Some owners like to turn it on before they leave for work in the morning, for example.
Step 4:
After using your dog’s bark collar for at least six months, you need to test it again. Remove it and observe your dog’s behavior during several training sessions in which he does not wear the bark collar. Make sure that there are no changes in his behavior. If you notice any changes, you should consult a veterinarian to make sure your dog’s behavior is not related to any health problems.
Below is another popular video with 2.5 million views describing how to test a bark collar;
FAQs
Q: How do I know if my bark collar is working?
A: Follow the steps below;
- Press and release the power button to power the collar on.
- Watch for the green light to blink twice, then hold the power button. Continue to hold the power button through the red light.
- Release the button when the light turns blue to set the collar into test mode. This process takes 30 seconds.
- A beep will sound indicating that the collar is in test mode and ready to be tested.
- Watch for the green light, which indicates your dog barks within 1-2 seconds; this means your unit is working properly. If no green light, please refer to the troubleshooting tips on our manual or contact us directly.
Q: Can I use the bark collars on puppies under 6 months?
A: Yes, but you should monitor them while wearing the collar. If there are any negative changes in behavior, remove the collar immediately and contact your veterinarian. Check out these bark collars for Chihuahuas and small-breed dogs.
Q: Where can I get my bark collar repaired?
A: You may be able to get your bark collar repaired through the manufacturer; however, we do not offer repair services. If you would like to purchase a new unit, we have replacement units available on our website.
Q: How do I charge my bark collar?
A: Bark collars require regular charging in order to work properly. We recommend charging them once per month, but at least every six months. Please refer to your device’s manual for charging instructions.
Q: Can I use my bark collar underwater?
A: If you plan to use your bark collar in a wet environment, we recommend using a waterproof version of the bark collar only in that type of environment. We do not guarantee that other versions of the bark collar will hold up.
Q: Can I use my bark collar without a leash?
A: We do not recommend using any electronic device without a leash or with an extendable leash. The point of electronic devices is to provide consistent training, which you cannot do if the dog has the ability to wander off the yard or run into a busy street.
Q: How long does my bark collar battery last?
A: If the device is only activated when needed, you can expect your battery to last up to four months. A full charge will last most dogs at least one month of continuous operation. Some conditions such as cold weather or hot weather may impact the batteries’ ability to hold a charge.
Q: How do I test my petsafe collar?
A: Petsafe bark collars have a built in test mode that can be accessed by following the steps below.
Press and release the power button to power the collar on. Watch for the green light to blink twice, then hold the power button. Continue to hold the power button through the red light. Release the button when the light turns blue to set the collar into test mode. This process takes 30 seconds. A beep will sound indicating that the collar is in test mode and ready to be tested. Watch for the green light, which indicates your dog barks within 1-2 seconds; this means your unit is working properly. If no green light, please refer to the troubleshooting tips on our manual or contact us directly.
Q: What type of battery does my petsafe bark collar use?
A: Petsafe bark collars use a 9V alkaline battery that should last about 4 months with normal usage. Cold weather may reduce the batteries’ ability to hold a charge, resulting in shorter battery life.
Q: How do you test a spray bark collar?
A: Spray bark collars require regular testing to ensure they are primed and functional.
To test, remove the collar from the box and ensure the battery is in place. Press and hold the “test” button on the front of the device for 10 seconds. The collar will emit a quick spray automatically when it is in test mode.
If it does not spray, please refer to troubleshooting tips on our manual or contact us directly.
Q: Can you test a shock collar on yourself?
A: No. When testing a shock collar, you should always have another person present to prevent injury. Please refer to troubleshooting tips on our manual or contact us directly if you need assistance with testing your unit.
Q: How do you test a shock collar without shocking yourself?
A: The safest way to test your shock collar is to have another person do it for you. However, if someone else is not available you can test it by attaching the device to a piece of string and touching the probes with the other end of the string. If the unit delivers an electric shock, ensure that it is working properly before placing on your dog. Please refer to the troubleshooting tips on our manual or contact us directly if you need assistance with testing your unit.
Q: How long does it take for a shock collar to work?
A: If the device is transmitting, then the device should start to work as soon as it is activated by barking. Each dog has different sensitivities, so it is not always possible to determine exactly how long it will take for the dog to respond.
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Hey there! I am Lean Morgan, an owner of three cats and a passionate cat lover. I recently joined to be part of the team here at Our Pets HQ and will be writing a lot about pet grooming guides including reviews of different grooming gear. I also own a small grooming shop in California and welcome questions on cat or dog grooming using my email, leah@ourpetshq.com.
