Understanding why dogs bark excessively

Barking is normal for all dogs, and it is an important tool for them to communicate with us.There are many different reasons that a dog may bark, and it’s essential to understand these reasons, and to apply this knowledge when employing e-collar training.

Using static stimulation on a dog that is trying to protect you, for instance, will not create a positive environment for you or your dog. When barking becomes excessive, however, it can cause noise nuisance and lead to frustration, and therefore an unhappy home.

What causes excessive barking?

Anxiety from being left alone, fear and territorial behavior are normal causes for barking, and can be trained out of a dog from a young age. Boredom and seeking attention are triggers that can cause excessive barking. Boredom can be tackled by exercising your dog more often, leaving activities for them, or organising for someone to be with them when you’re not around. Attention-seeking barking can be managed by ignoring your dog, avoiding eye contact, and even leaving the room altogether. 

The role of e-collars

If excessive barking persists, however, e-collars are an excellent tool to build a negative association with this behavior. This is a simple, safe, and proven method to manage excessive barking. Some e-collars detect barking and emit stimulation automatically, while others are controlled by remote, with some having both functions. Even when you’re not there, an e-collar can emit a safe level of stimulation if your dog is known to be barking a lot while you’re out. The Garmin BarkLimiter Deluxe and Dogtra YS200 Bark Control Collar are two fantastic and affordable e-collars with bark detection, meaning your dog doesn’t have to wear it while you’re at home.

DogMaster Trainers stock a huge range of e-collars that are designed to combat excessive barking, with collars to suit all types of breeds and temperaments, click here to browse!