When used incorrectly, ultrasonic bark control devices can cause harm to dog ears. Although these devices work well to stop dogs from barking, they are not recommended for long-term use. Use them only in conjunction with teaching your dog the “silent” command.
When it comes to at home training for your dog, there are a few well-tested methods that keep your dog in line. Among these training methods are ultrasonic bark devices. A device designed to emit a high-pitched whistle that only dogs can hear. When the dog barks, the device will emit the whistle. This will eventually teach the dog to stop barking.
Although this type of device works on most dogs, we have to ask ourselves…is it safe?
The Science Behind Ultrasonic Bark Control Devices
Ultrasonic devices have been used in dog training for many years. It is an effective and silent way to prevent your dog from barking excessively. When turned on, this device emits a high-pitched sound wave. As a result, only your dog can hear the sound coming from the ultrasonic emitter.
How Does it Help With Dog Barking?
When the ultrasonic emitter is turned on, your dog will hear a very high-pitched hum that only their ears can hear.
If you want to use this device to teach your dog not to bark, you have to use it frequently. Whenever your dog starts to bark out of control, turn on the device and keep it on until your dog stops barking. When they stop, immediately turn the device off.
This process will train your dog to understand that barking will result in the high-pitched noise turning on. As a result, they learn to not bark unless there is a genuine cause.
The ultrasonic sound is not a pleasant tone, and dogs will quickly realize that they need to stop barking to stop the annoying sound. However, this may not always be the case. Some dogs will find the noise not just as a nuisance but a threat.
They may continue to bark at the sound, desperately trying to make it stop. If this happens with your dog, the device will not prevent it from barking.
Higher Frequencies Can Hurt
Dogs hear at a much higher frequency than humans. While humans typically have a hearing range between 64-23,00 Hz., dogs hear between 67-45,000 Hz, a much higher hearing range than most humans could ever hear.
That is why ultrasonic bark control devices are widely used on dogs. Keep in mind that the higher the pitch in these devices, the better the chance your dog will whine and cry. The higher the pitch, the more it’s going to hurt your dog’s ears.
Are Ultrasonic Bark Control Devices Harmful?
Ultrasonic devices have some disadvantages, as with any method that uses ulterior methods to treat unacceptable behavior.
While dogs hear at a higher frequency, ultrasonic devices begin at between 15,000Hz and 20,000 Hz. As the pitch rises, your dog will become irritable as the sound is inevitably hurting their ears.
That is why they quickly learn to stop barking, as they don’t want to be in any form of pain or discomfort.
Ultrasonic Devices Do Not Address The Problem
Even though ultrasonic deterrents have been proven effective, they have an underlying problem. A deterrent for behavioral problems is simply that, a deterrent. It will not address the underlying behavioral issue.
It is a fear-induced deterrent that stops your dog from barking. Ultrasonic deterrents have a reputation for being inhumane, and many trainers agree they are not the best solution to stop your dog from barking.
So how do you get your dog to stop barking? Start by trying to find out why your dog is barking erratically. There may be an underlying medical reason. While dogs naturally bark for whatever reason, they also use it to express how they are feeling.
If your dog continues to bark erratically, it might be time to take them to the vet for a check-up. Your dog may be uncomfortable, have an infection, or something going on internally that we can’t see.
If your dog behaves strangely or out of place, keep it safe and get them checked!
Will An Ultrasonic Bark Control Hurt My Dog?
In reality, the answer to our question is no. Ultrasonic deterrents will not outwardly harm your dog. However, it is important to note that just because it won’t immediately harm them doesn’t mean over-use won’t cause damage.
Dog’s ears are extremely sensitive and should be handled with care, even when training. Even if ultrasonic devices aren’t as inhumane as using shock collars, there is little point in using something even “a little” inhumane.
Use safer methods along with ultrasonic bark control to help with training, don’t rely on the device alone.
What Are Other Options?
When teaching your dog to stop barking, there are plenty of other options. Going back to the basics is always a great way to start.
Although it may take more time and practice, the benefit to you and your dog’s relationship will be enormous. Treats and reinforcing positive behavior have a long history of working. While your dog is learning its boundaries, you are strengthening your relationship with your canine companion in a safe and positive way.
Remember – Dogs Will Bark
Please keep in mind that your dog is just that, a dog. They will bark, and in some cases, we find that irritating. However, it is important to remain patient with your dog and enforce good behavior while also understanding that they bark.
When to Use Ultrasonic Devices to Control Baring
Ultrasonic devices are not meant to be used whenever your dog is barking. You do not want to silence their voice completely. If you choose to use these deterrents, use them liberally and only when absolutely needed. Your dog is an active and yippy animal by nature. These devices are meant to be used only when it becomes too much.
Positive Reinforcement
Keep in mind that positive reinforcement is a must when properly training your dog. While using the ultrasonic bark control, also use treats and praise.
Dogs are creatures of habit and want to know that they are making you happy. Pleasing their human is part of being a dog. While using deterrents, use positive training methods alongside it. Your dog will not just associate the sound with pain, but also with treats and praise.
The goal is to simply use the ultrasonic device as a temporary method to get your dog to stop barking. As long as you are rewarding with treats and praise to teach the “silent” command, you shouldn’t need the ultrasonic device for more than a few weeks.
Keeping It Calm
Dogs are man’s best friend, and with that comes some pretty big responsibilities. As their owner, you must ensure that you are safely and effectively training them to be the best they can be.
Ultrasonic bark control devices may not initially harm your dog, but it is always better to air on the side of caution.
Make sure you figure out the underlying cause of their behavior before you start with deterrent methods. Once your dog understands repercussions, the behavior will start to fall into place.
Maintain a Positive Environment For Your Dog
Maintaining good dog behavior is no easy task. Although there are many ways to help with inappropriate behavior, it’s important to maintain a peaceful and positive environment for your dog.
Regardless of what training method you use, praise and positive reinforcement are necessary. Your dog’s behavior will drastically change for the better when they know that obedience comes with recognition.
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