The Best Bark Collars of 2023 [11 Safe & Effective Devices]

Written by Dave Miller

A dog collar can be a great tool when retraining your pup while also ensuring that he is comfortable during the process. While dog collars are a great way to keep your dog from running away and also for identification, an anti-bark collar can be a great way to stop your dog from barking excessively. Although some dog owners are concerned about how humane they are, using an anti-bark collar is a safe and effective way to stop your dog from barking.

Training your dog not to bark excessively can be a lot easier when you use a bark collar. Easy to use and safe, a bark collar typically works on its own with little needed from the owner. While it’s helpful to figure out why your dog is barking in the first place, the bark collar itself will train your dog to bark on its own so you can get on with your busy schedule.

A bark collar works by interrupting your dog as he barks. There are usually four different types of interruption that include sound, vibration, sonic, and static corrections. All of these methods are triggered automatically by the sensor in the collar. Which method you use depends on the collar that you feel is best to use for your specific dog. Through our research, we found that the best bark collar is the SportDOG NoBark Collar. Read on to learn more about it in our Best Bark Collar Reviews.

Best Bark Collars of 2023

Our Favorite: SportDOG NoBark Collar

Recommended for dogs with a high energy drive, the SportDOG NoBark Collar was created to consistently and safely stop your pup’s barking. This bark collar features three training modes and 10 different levels of stimulation. Featuring Perfect Bark technology, your dog will receive consistent, firm, and fair bark control that uses both sound and vibrations to receive a correction.

With the automatic safety shut-off feature, you can eliminate the possibility of overcorrection while the submersible, waterproof collar comes with a rechargeable and long-lasting battery. It also uses three-color indicator lights to tell you when the battery is low. Using the DryTek waterproof design technology, this collar is submersible up to 7.6 meters.

Safe to use, the SportDOG NoBark Collar filters out external noise to prevent accidental corrections when your dog isn’t barking. It can actually deter your dog’s unique bark to give him a correction that he can only sense. With a low-profile design, this sleek collar also comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery you can charge in only two hours that give you up to 200 hours on that one charge.

Runner-Up: Garmin BarkLimiter Deluxe Dog Training Collar

The Garmin BarkLimiter Training Collar actually records the number of times your dog barks to help determine how effective the collar is as well as which of the correction types he responds to best. Compact and lightweight, this bark collar is safe to use on your pet and easily discourages excessive barking. Equipped with stainless-steel integrated contact points, this collar gives dogs correction and training quickly and easily. The BarkLimiter also comes with a rechargeable lithium battery that can last up to three months without recharging.

Featuring a slim profile, the BarkLimiter Training Collar can identify between barking and other types of noise thanks to its innovative technology, so there’s no need to be concerned about false corrections. With the intuitive automatic setting, it will increase the collar’s correction level until he stops barking. It also uses a built-in counter that measures each bark your pup makes to choose the best correction mode for your pup.

With a lightweight design, the BarkLimiter Training Collar fits more dog sizes and types. Easily adjust the level of correction from stimulation to vibration and automatically increase the intensity to stop dogs from barking.

Best Basic Bark Collar: PetSafe Static Basic Waterproof Dog Bark Collar

Not only can the PetSafe Rechargeable Bark Collar stop your dog from barking, but it can also stop him from whining and whimpering. Equipped with 15 static correction levels, this collar first gives a low-level correction any time it senses your dog barking. It will then automatically intensify the level of correction until he stops barking. Any time your dog happens to bark 15 times or more during an 80 second period of time, the automatic shut-off feature will stop the collar for three minutes.

Thanks to temperament learning technology, the PetSafe Static Basic Waterproof Dog Bark Collar adjusts to how frequently your dog barks and uses a sensor that helps to guarantee that your pup won’t feel false corrections when another dog barks in the area. With its waterproof design, you don’t have to worry if your dog gets wet in the rain or a pond, and the rechargeable battery comes with a quick-charging adaptor.

Made with premium-coated nylon, the adjustable PetSAfe Static Basic Waterproof Dog Bark Collar will work on dogs with a neck size that is between six and 27-inches and weighs eight pounds or less. Offering several barking corrections including static, ultrasonic, and spray, this bark collar is a helpful training tool that includes progressive correction, which lets your pup learn safely using an automatic alert system with a hands-free feature that sends signals when your pup barks. This bark-sensing technology actually learns your pup’s unique bark and only corrects him when he hears it.

Best Professional Level Bark Collar: PetSpy M686 Premium Dog Training

Ideal for any dog breed weighing over 10 pounds, the PetSpy M686 Premium Dog Training Collar can be used on dogs six months and older. It comes with a free e-book to help train your dog and help you to understand how your dog thinks. Equipped with four different training modes, you can adjust the collar to eight correction levels.

This collar comes with a rechargeable and waterproof receiver that features remote activation. Allowing you to effectively and quickly train a dog from 1100 yards away, the PetSpy M686 Premium Dog Training Collar will help to correct your dog’s barking, aggressive leash pulling, wandering off, and approaching strangers. It features innovatively designed contact points, which are made out of conductive rubber that will prevent your dog’s skin from becoming irritated.

Perfect for first-time dog owners or a professional trainer, you can choose from four training modes including beep, vibration, one-second static shock, and continuous shock. The PetSpy M686 Premium Dog Training Collar has an IP7 waterproof rating and comes with a blind operation mode that makes dog training effective and easy without using the remote. 

Best Ultrasonic Vibration Bark Collar: BarkWise Complete

Humane and safe, the BarkWise Complete Bark Collar uses both sound and ultrasonic vibration allowing you to train your pup without using static shock. You can activate this feature each time your pup barks, and you can also operate it manually with the included remote control. With the unit’s Advanced Bark Recognition™ Technology, you can be assured that your pup receives accurate and consistent training. 

Completely shock-free, the BarkWise Complete comes with a battery that is rechargeable just like a smartphone. This is a durable and water-resistant product that is safe for use every day and won’t get damaged from the rain or puddles. It also features a remote control that will fit in your pocket.

A great value for the quality and price, the BarkWise Complete gives off a high-pitched, but inaudible sound that you won’t be able to hear, but it is still safe and humane. Or your pup will feel the vibration that feels the same as the vibration mode on your smartphone. Either will interrupt your dog’s barking and, if you have a dog that is hard of hearing, you can also set it to have an effective audible sound. 

Best Customizable Bark Collar: Educator Bark-less Pro Advanced

A gentle way to help your dog stop barking, the Educator Bark-less Pro Advanced features several options that you can customize to your dog’s needs. Perfect for small or big dogs, this bark collar uses the newest technology to provide stimulation to stop barking. It includes a five-second delay in between stimulation activations.

Offering three stimulation modes along with three adjustable levels of bark sensitivity, this is an effective and human way to train your pup without causing him stress. The powerful, but small, receiver comes with a Lithium battery that can recharge in just two hours. Using a proprietary type of stimulation, you can turn off the Pavlovian tone off if it bothers your pup.

Best Rechargeable Bark Collar: DogRook Rechargeable Dog Bark Collar

Stopping 96% of dog barking issues, the DogRook Rechargeable Dog Bark Collar is a humane method that comes with two modes. Featuring an automatic performance mode, this collar has five humane stages of vibrations and beeps, which will automatically switch and increase based on your dog’s barking. This is a rechargeable collar that will work for 14 days on one charge, and it will give you a complete charge in only three hours.

Sounds and vibrations can be combined to effectively and safely stop your pup from barking. After your dog’s first bark, he will hear a sound, but barks after that will get an added vibration along with the sound. This is a particularly useful collar you’re your dog is alone while you are out.

You can adjust the DogRook Rechargeable Dog Bark Collar to fit any size dog that weighs from 11 to 110 pounds and has a neck size measuring between nine and 22-inches. This collar is easy to fit onto your pup by just adjusting its strap. 

Fastest Charging Bark Collar: NBJU Bark Collar for Dogs

Featuring seven different sensitivity levels, the NBJU Bark Collar for Dogs works on any sized dog. Using three training modes, this collar has vibration, beep, or static shock for correction, plus you get 64 types of methods during training. This is a waterproof bark collar that has an IP7 rating, which allows you to use it outside or inside.

The NBJU Bark Collar is rechargeable and can be ready in 30 minutes. Just one charge will last you up to 12 days. The NBJU Bark Collar for Dogs includes a protection function along with two silicone sleeves, which will keep your pup’s skin protected from the electric shock.

Most Versatile Bark Collar: DOG CARE Bark Collar

Featuring adjustable sensitivity levels, the DOG CARE Bark Collar is equipped with humane training modes to provide efficient and safe training. Perfect for larger dogs, this bark collar is an easy way to solve Fido’s uncontrollable barking problem. Easily switch between the modes by just pressing a button, plus, you can set the collar’s sensitivity level allowing you to customize the response to fit your pup’s needs. 

Equipped with a safety protection system, the DOG CARE Bark Collar uses a low amount of voltage and will stop working if your dog doesn’t respond for a period of time. It also won’t shock your dog accidentally, but only works when the collar senses barking near it that is loud enough. The collar will also adjust its stimulation level thanks to its progressive training method.

The strap is easy to adjust to fit various dog weights and the included silicon rubber cover will help to keep your dog’s skin protected. The DOG CARE Bark Collar also includes a long-lasting battery and a battery indicator that flashes when it is time to replace it.

Best Bark Collar for Large Dogs: Dogtra YS600 Rechargeable

If you are looking for a safe way to eliminate or decrease excessive barking, the Dogtra YS600 No Bark Collar for Dogs uses a high-performance vibration to get your pup’s attention before it gives off static stimulation. Using the persistent bark indication feature, easily increase the level of correction if your pup doesn’t react to the stimulation provided.

You will want to be at the lowest level of stimulation at first and gradually increase the level as you watch your pup’s reaction. This will allow you to reach the right level of stimulation for your particular dog. The Dogtra YS600 No Bark Collar for Dogs comes with 5/8-inch contact points that are made out of surgical steel, which is perfect for short and medium fur. 

Offering ten different stimulation levels, this is an effective bark collar that also offers a high-performance vibration level. Only your dog’s bark triggers the sound recognition sensor, so you don’t have to worry about ambient noise. You can also adjust the intensity level from high to low, so it works well with a stubborn dog.

Created for medium to large-sized dogs, the Dogtra YS600 Anti Bark Collar is made to fit dogs that weigh more than 35 pounds, plus you can cut it down to fit your dog’s neck size if necessary. Safe and reliable, this is a waterproof collar, so it doesn’t matter if it gets wet, and it offers a rapid charge battery that is ready to go in two hours.

Best Waterproof Dog Bark Collar: TUG Rechargeable Waterproof Dog Bark Collar

Easily take control of your pup’s barking by using the TUG Rechargeable Waterproof Dog Bark Control Collar. Featuring a sleek collar design, this waterproof bark collar will shock, vibrate, or beep when your dog barks. This technologically advanced collar does not have a false trigger, but it is capable of differentiating between your pup’s bark and a different dog, or even other noises.

Equipped with a huge, illuminated display, the TUG Rechargeable Waterproof Dog Bark Collar is easy to read. The buttons are also simple to use even when your dog has the collar on. This rechargeable collar is capable of lasting up to 10 days on standby mode without needing a charge.

Easy to clean, this IP67 waterproof bark collar only needs soap and water along with a sponge when your pup gets it dirty. The TUG Rechargeable Waterproof Dog Bark Collar allows you to choose your preferred correction mode from vibration, static shock, or beeping and even lets you come or remove the static shock and vibration feature.

Purpose and Benefits of Using Bark Collar

 Here are three benefits from using an anti-bark collar for your pup:

Bark Collars Stop Your Dog From Barking

If you have a dog that is barking excessively [1] and keeping everyone awake, then you know it’s time to try using a bark collar. A bark collar can end your dog’s excessive barking, but it really depends on the quality of the collar that you choose. 

Bark collars for dogs work by giving Fido barking corrections. This can be done using several levels of vibration each time your dog barks by setting it on vibration mode, which is a painless correction each time your dog barks. Dogs get the intended message through the vibration’s intensity, which will increase as he continues to bark. After your dog understands that the vibrations happen each time he barks, it will stop excessive barking to make the vibrations stop.

Easy to Use Technology

The biggest benefit of a bark collar is its technology and automatic functions. Not intended to punish your dog for his barking, the bark collar beep and vibration triggered by your dog’s barking is usually enough to stop this bad habit. All you need to do is adjust the correction mode and its intensity to be appropriate for your dog’s size. Your dog will soon learn what the consequences are of his barking and will eventually stop his barking habit as long as you provide consistent training.

Bark Collars are Safe for Dogs

Bark collars are also safe for dogs. Whether you are using an ultrasonic or citronella spray dog collar, these bark collars are safe for your dog to use and won’t harm him. If you use the citronella bark collar, just make sure that the canister doesn’t empty when the spray runs out if the dog barks too much.

Types of Bark Collars 

Static Bark Collar

A static bark collar is the most popular type of bark collar. Not only are they the most versatile, but static bark collars are also the most effective. A static collar works by providing a quick pulse of static interruption to a dog’s collar when it detects barking.

Available for dogs of every size, static bark collars can be set to several levels of intensity making it possible to fine-tune one model for a timid dog that doesn’t need as much interruption to also work for a headstrong, willful dog that needs more intensity.

There are many premium static collars that come with added features which include interruptive vibrations or tone warnings. Other bark collars are able to increase their static interruption levels if your dog continues to bark, until they find that level a dog will acquiesce.

Vibration Bark Collar

A vibration collar also has sensors that will detect your dog’s bark before it sends an interruptive pulse, which in this case is a vibrating one. You can pre-adjust the vibration’s intensity, but the vibration collar doesn’t have the versatility that a static collar has, plus there are fewer models available on the market. A vibration collar is a great choice for those that do not want to use a static collar. 

Spray Bark Collar

A spray bark collars is a new but a popular way to control a dog’s bark. The spray bark collar uses a small burst of spray that is typically scented with lemon or citronella near your dog’s nose in order to interrupt his barking. There are small sensors that are built into spray collars that detect when your dog is barking and will then trigger the spray.

Since the spray in this collar is harmless to your pet, this is a bark collar that is recommended for timid or small dogs. The spray collar is also a good choice for use as a training collar that is versatile and cost-effective.

Ultrasonic Bark Collar

An ultrasonic bark collar uses a high-pitched sound that gets your dog’s attention, but it is inaudible to a human. An ultrasonic bark collar is able to detect when your dog barks and emits an ultrasonic sound that will interrupt his barking. There are some ultrasonic collars that will also use vibrations as an additional stimulus.

An ultrasonic collar is particularly good when training a small and young dog not to bark. If you are using a handheld ultrasonic remote unit, it will use the same type of high-frequency sound that you need to operate. Because the pet owner needs to initiate the sound when a dog barks, it means is that the pet owner needs to actively engage in this bark training process.

A dog’s bark collar needs to have a monitoring station that will cover large areas from a central position. When the station senses that your dog is barking within a specific area, typically around 50 feet, this bark control unit will send out an ultrasound signal that interrupts every dog that is barking within its range. This bark control unit is an excellent way to keep several dogs quiet when they are playing in your backyard.

Things to Consider When Buying Bark Collars

 Weight and Comfort

It’s important to limit the collar’s weight to about five ounces if you have a small dog. If it weighs any more than that your dog can feel overloaded. With a medium-sized dog, it’s possible to increase the weight of the collar to 15 ounces for it to still be comfortable, which is where your dog will probably find that the bark collar is becoming a burden.

Always check the collar’s material and fit to make sure it’s appropriate for the size dog you are putting it on. Even if he only wears it for short periods of time, you want to make sure it doesn’t irritate his skin or make it hard for him to get around. Plus, if you have a dog that is probably going to grow, make sure that the collar will grow with him.

Automatic Safety

A bark collar that has an automatic safety feature or has a disabled stop for all correction after a specific period of time. This way, if your dog should get upset or panic, the collar will stop correcting him and not increase his suffering.

Effectiveness

In order to make sure that your bark collar is effective, you need to buy a bark collar that is suitable. You don’t want to purchase a bark collar that is smaller or larger than it needs to be. Typically, a manufacturer will design their bark collar for dogs of different weights and sizes to make sure that you don’t purchase the wrong one.

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure that you use the product correctly and most effectively. Start at the lowest setting, so you don’t increase your dog’s discomfort unnecessarily.

FAQs

What is the most effective anti-bark collar?

The SportDOG NoBark Collar is a safe and consistent way to stop your dog from barking. Featuring three training modes, this collar has 10 different levels of stimulation and comes with Perfect Bark technology, which offers consistent, firm, and fair bark control that uses sound and vibrations when providing a correction. It has a long-lasting battery, a waterproof design, and is capable of filter out any external noise and only focusing on your dog’s unique bark. 

Do bark collars really work?

Yes, they do work, as long as you use the collar correctly. It’s also important to remember that while it will work to stop barking in lots of dogs, it does not work on every dog. If you fail to follow the instructions for the bark collar and do not position the collar correctly, that will hinder its usefulness. Otherwise, it can have a positive effect on your dog’s behavior and stop his barking. 

It’s also important to understand why your dog is barking. It might be attention-seeking, separation anxiety, frustration, or just a compulsion. Whatever the reason, it also helps to resolve the issue first, to make sure that the bark collar is completely effective in stopping your dog from barking.

As a training tool, the barking collar is as good as the dog owner that is using it, and it is intended to be used along with proper dog training techniques. You also need to commit to consistently and appropriately addressing your dog’s barking. And make sure you are using positive reinforcement training along with the bark collar. 

Is it cruel to use a bark collar?

Whether a bark collar is safe is a pretty common question among most pet owners. There are plenty of bark collars on the market that use humane ways to effectively and safely get a dog to stop barking. This includes anti-bark collars that use ultrasonic noise that can’t be heard by a human, sound, and vibrations, or a spray of lemon or citronella. All of these stimuli will briefly interrupt your dog when he is barking and will not have a long-lasting effect. 

All of these bark collars are safe as long as you follow their directions and do not use them longer than 12 hours consecutively, after which they may irritate a dog’s skin. They should also not be worn by a dog when he sleeps, is crated, or is playing. Plus, an anti-bark collar shouldn’t be worn on dogs that weigh less than eight pounds or by a puppy younger than six months.

What is the best barking device?

If you have a dog with a high energy level, particularly for barking, the SportDOG NoBark Collar is a great choice to safely and consistently stop your dog from barking. It can actually filter out outside noise, and it only works when your dog barks. This is a waterproof collar with a slim design that has a lithium battery that will last 200 hours on just one charge. Plus, you can submerge this collar in water up to 7.6 meters.