bark collar

[razmataz5]

my mom just ordered bark collars for my dogs. im freaking out because they are so small (i have a toy and teacup poodle) and i love them so much. the little one barks way too much but isn't there another way to go about this? or are bark collars really not that bad? i just really don't want them to get hurt.

also...i feel like it would be like telling a human to shut up every time they open their mouth.

is this true? like isn't it natural for dogs to bark sometimes?

what should i do???

[Grizabella]

I've always thought of shock collars as a rather lazy way to train your pets. That aside, if you're concerned about your dog's safety or well being, I would discuss it with your mother. Ask her why she wants to use shock collars, and give her some of the reasons why you think it's a bad idea. For more information on them, here are some sites you can look at:

Shock Collars - the Shocking Truth
Animal Training And Consulting - Dog Shock Collars
Are Electrical Collars Effective in Dog Training? - Associated Content

[Barbed Lungs]

What type of bark collar has she ordered? I strongly disagree with shock collars as they seem such a horrible way of discipline.
You can also get collars that emit a sound frequency only heard by dogs that will cause them discomfort, but I don't think that's a good option if there are several dogs around. It would be like punishing the others whe they haven't barked.
you can also get collars that spray the dogs face when they bark and even though it sounds pretty horrible these are the ones I agree with most as they don't hurt the dog, just give it an uncomfortable experience that could deter them from barking.
Overall I think bark collars are okay as long as it's the right type of collar and sometimes dogs need to stop barking because of neighbours etc.
Personally, I use DAP-Dog Appeasing Pheremone which comes in all sorts of formats like spray or a plug-in that works like an air freshener. Basically it helps calm dogs in stressful situations and can help to stop barking.
It's certainly available in the UK, I'm not sure about anywhere else though.