What Happens If I Leave A Bark Control Collar On My Dog For Over 12 Hours?
My dog is a very good dog. She had some behavioral issues when she was younger, but what puppy doesn't. Anyway, these past few months, she has been so good. She doesn't really bark anymore. I had gotten so used to her barking for no reason that when she became quiet I would get scared that something had happened to her.
Anyway, about a week ago, I received an anonymous letter. The letter stated that the writer was fed up with my dog's "incessant non-stop all day long barking." They said that if my dog did not stop, they would contact the police department. I was extremely upset. For one thing, my dog doesn't really bark anymore. If she does, it's like one or two barks. Let's just say that I rarely even hear her bark at all. If anything, there are many other dogs in our neighborhood and I hear them barking more frequently. So, I contacted the police department to see how the procedure goes and they told me not to worry, but just in case to keep a log of any dogs barking so that I can contest it in case the neighbor actually does file a complaint.
Anyway, I do not want to lose her. I know that she did have a barking problem before, but these past two months have been better for her. She is a good girl.
I have been looking into products that I could use when I am at work (this is the only time when I cannot vouch for her and say that she doesn't bark. I do not work everyday. I only work two days a week. The problem is that the shifts are really long. I read on the instruction manual that they are not supposed to wear the collar for over 12 consecutive hours. So, any suggestions, advice, or input? I tried the ultrasonic product but it actually made her bark continuously.
Please do not leave any answers where you are criticizing me and saying how inhumane it is. I know that already. I only bought this product as a precaution. My city regulations stated that before removing a "nuisance" dog, there are a series of steps that will be done to ease the "problem." One of the solutions was a bark control collar. If her past problems are held against her, than at least I have proof that I am taking control of the situation.
I would really appreciate and encourage any stories you have of your good and bad experiences with these type of collars. Thank you.
December 13th, 2009 - 12:46
The contact points will rub a sore spot on the neck if the collar is left on to long. A trick that does work is to remove the contact points or tape them so that they don’t rub (if they are non removable) at random times so that the dog never knows if it’s working or not. But, I found that the “dummy”collars simply do not work. A dog can even smell the difference between a good battery and a dead battery.
December 13th, 2009 - 13:30
NOTHING “happens”!
My pathological barker wore hers 24/7/365 for NINE YEARS!!!! Was only removed when hunting or to change batteries.
December 13th, 2009 - 14:10
Have you looked into the citronella collars? It didn’t work on my barker, but I’ve heard it works with some. The shock collar is no more inhumane than the underground fencing collar. My husband tried in on himself before he put it on our dog, and he said even the highest voltage stung a little, but wasn’t terribly painful.
Another option might be to check out “doggy daycares” in your area. When I lived alone, I had to do this when I worked long hours. However – it can get very expensive very quickly. I also would have friends come to let my dog out and play with him.
One thing you may want to consider is if you have a video camera, leave it recording after you go to work. Then, if your nuisance neighbor tries to take it further, you could use your tapes as proof to show it isn’t your dog.
On a good note, usually people who make these complaints are “frequent flyers” in the complaint department. A lot of times they get brushed off by city workers because they have abused their right to complain.
Too bad there aren’t a series of steps to take to remove the nuisance neighbor…
December 13th, 2009 - 15:05
when it barks u should spray it with water bcuz shock collars seem a little 2 cruel. u can train it at petsmart too. good luck bye! ps it might be bored so u can hire a dog sitter.