Frequently Asked Questions
Bark Collars & Training Collars FAQs
What is the difference between a ‘Bark Collar’ and a ‘Remote Training Collar’?
There are a few major differences between the two, however the most important are as follows:
- Bark Collars are controlled automatically by the collar device.
- Remote Training Collars are controlled by the pet owner via a remote.
Bark collars are designed to control and discourage barking, while Remote Training Collars can be used for other undesirable behaviours such as barking at specific triggers, jumping up, rough play, biting, chewing furniture, or stalking. Depending on the style of training you are looking for, these products will work to achieve an obedient outcome. Our friendly staff are always here to offer advice if you are unsure which training style suits you best.
Is a Bark Collar or Remote Training Collar better for my dog?
Bark Control Collars that spray, vibrate, or shock are usually left on your dog for a longer period of time compared to remote training collars. They are designed to automatically dispense the vibration, shock, or spray without human interaction. This form of collar is good for people who are not looking to be on guard for the behaviour around the clock, which is why this style of training is specific to barking.
Remote Training Collars require the owner to dispense the shock, spray, or vibration manually via the remote. For example, let’s name our dog Barney. Barney does not have a barking issue but rather a rough play problem with other dogs. The owner puts the remote training collar on Barney at the park, then watches him play while holding the remote. If Barney's play becomes too rough, the owner simply uses the remote to set off the vibration or shock.
This way, the owner is in control, and the specific behaviour can be addressed directly. This kind of behaviour could not be solved with a simple bark control collar. Remote training collars can also be used for barking, but we suggest them for specific/environmental barking as the owner will need to be present with the remote. This ‘specific barking’ could be an issue with certain people or objects, such as birds, prams, or children.
When can I start using a Bark Control or Remote Training Collar?
This question depends on the size, breed, health, and temperament of your puppy. The important part is asking: "At what age will my dog begin to understand the connection between the bark collar and their barking?" We suggest waiting until at least 6 months of age. By this time (again, depending on the dog), your dog should be able to make the behavioural connection between the spray, vibration, or zap with the action of barking.
Puppies bark as a natural instinct to find their voice or get attention when they are hungry, hurt, stuck, or upset. This puppy behaviour should not be interpreted as a ‘bark control issue’. A simple conversation with your vet will also help narrow down your choice.
Will an E-Collar hurt my dog?
E-collars are extremely safe to use and come with extensive user instructions. If these instructions are followed, you will have no need for concern! At eDog, we aim to take the 'sometimes stigma' out of electronic training devices and ensure we only offer the highest quality worldwide. Methods such as vibration or sound cause no more discomfort than speaking loudly or pulling on a lead to stop a dog from barking.
Shock collars provide a stronger and alternative action, but they cause no harm to your dog. These collars are well suited to medium to extra-large dogs. Remember, nuisance barking is a problem and should not be accepted.
Bark Collars & Training Collars FAQs
Yes - E-Collars are Legal in the England, Scotland & Northern Ireland.
E-collars, including remote training collars, bark control collars, e-fence collars, and static correction collars, are legal in England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland (as of September 2024). While there were discussions around potential bans, these proposals rightly faced significant criticism and were ultimately not enacted. As a result, e-collars remain a legitimate and effective training tool in these countries.
In Northern Ireland, there are currently no restrictions or bans on the use of e-collars, making them legal to own and use, just as in England and Scotland. In Wales, however, the use of e-collars that emit a static shock pulse has been banned since 2010.
As with any training tool, it is important to use e-collars responsibly and in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines to ensure your dog’s safety and well-being. If you have any concerns, we recommend consulting with a professional trainer or a vet for advice.
E-collars are extremely safe to use and come with detailed user instructions. As with any product, if these instructions are followed correctly, there will be no cause for concern!
As with many things in the modern world, opinions are divided. Often, those who are against certain products tend to voice their views a little more loudly.
We only sell and endorse products that are safe and beneficial for your dog’s wellbeing. People have varying opinions on the use of e-collars for training, much like they do about raw diets, choke chains, or neutering. It's important to consider all perspectives and choose what works best for you and your dog.
It is recommended that a static collar is not worn for more than 10-12 hours at a time.
This is to prevent the area of skin where the contact points touch from becoming irritated. We also advise alternating the side of the neck on which the collar is worn each day, if it is used regularly.
Static barking collars should be positioned high up on the neck, close to the jawline, and slightly off-centre. Ideally, one prong should be touching the vocal cords and the other positioned on the neck muscle for the best results. Avoid placing it directly in the centre of the neck, as this may not provide optimal effectiveness.
Electronic Dog Fences FAQ's
An Electronic Dog Fence, or E-Fence, is an underground system that works in conjunction with a collar/receiver worn by your dog. It is not an ‘electric fence’. To set it up, follow the instructions carefully by installing the fence along the boundary of your property or designated area and placing flags to indicate its location.
Once your e-fence is properly installed, it will work with the receiver and collar to alert your dog when they approach the boundary or attempt to cross it. Each fence design varies in terms of its collar output, which can range from sound and vibration to static correction. E-fences are a safe and effective way to keep your dog within designated areas or prevent them from accessing certain spaces.
An e-fence can be used to both keep your dog in or out of specific areas. It can serve as a simple boundary in your front garden to prevent your dog from wandering into passing traffic, or act as a deterrent to stop your dog from entering your neighbour’s garden, flower beds, or vegetable patches.
If you live on a large property, farm, or beach block, an e-fence provides peace of mind, ensuring your dog does not roam into potentially hazardous areas.
Yes!
As with any electrical product, please read the instructions carefully and do not skip any steps or safety precautions. The collar/receiver included in these fence kits is very similar to those used in bark control products.
They are extremely safe to use and come with detailed user instructions. At eDog, we strive to remove the ‘sometimes stigma’ associated with electronic training devices and ensure we only offer the highest quality products worldwide.