Does your dog bark excessively? Jump up on you? Refuse to come when called? One solution is to invest in a dog training collar. It is important to find the best dog training collar for your dog, so before purchasing one, read this article.
This article looks at five types of training collars and the best dog training collars within each of those categories. These training collars correct a number of behavioral issues and offer a variety of techniques for addressing the challenges you may be facing with your dog.
FAQs on Dog Training Collars
Which type of dog training collar should I buy for my dog?
This depends on the undesired behaviors your dog is exhibiting. Some dog collars train dogs not to bark excessively, while others keep dogs within a specified range.
Where can I buy the best dog training collar?
You can find dog training collars at many pet supply stores. For the widest selection of collars, look on Amazon.com.
How do dog training collars work?
Each different type of collar works in a specific way. Some work by restricting a dog’s ability to pull, while others provide a negative stimulus designed to deter undesired behavior.
How We Reviewed
We researched many dog training collars within each category and chose the ones that came out on top in terms of customer satisfaction, quality and price.
Overall Price Range
If you’re in the market for a dog training collar, you should expect to spend anywhere from $12 to $50. However, on the higher end are collars in the $150-$200 price range.
Top 10 Dog Training Collars
[amazon box=”B00ACSSQ3S, B01HSNDQ48, B0002D31QU, B07BTCBJWY, B00115F3FA, B000FEQZXM, B00P7RAVSW, B07148Z1WH, B00074L4RW, B00EQ3423I” template=”table”]
1. PetSafe Martingale 1″ Medium Collar With Quick Snap Buckle
[amazon box=”B00ACSSQ3S” /]
4.2 out of 5 stars
The Martingale collar consists of two loops: one that goes around the dog’s neck, and a second that attaches to the leash and causes the collar to tighten when a dog pulls.
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Pros |
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The custom-fit feature is ideal for growing puppies, and it works well for dogs with necks larger than their heads. |
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Cons |
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Some collars may be loose enough to allow a determined dog to work its head out. |
2. Max and Neo Stainless Steel Martingale Collar
[amazon box=”B01HSNDQ48″ /]
3.5 out of 5 stars
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Pros |
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The stainless-steel chain won’t rust or stain fur, and reflective stitching bands make this collar perfect for walking or running at night. A separate plastic tab can be used to hang dog tags. |
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Cons |
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Dogs who are particularly difficult to train may not respond to this type of collar. |
3. PetSafe Gentle Spray Bark Collar
[amazon box=”B0002D31QU” /]
3.2 out of 5 stars
Anti-bark collars are excellent tools for dog owners to use to help their furry friends learn when it’s OK to bark and when it’s not. It is best used on dogs that weigh more than 6 pounds.
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Pros |
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This collar is water-resistant, so it’s fine to use in a light rain or on wet grass. |
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Cons |
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Some dogs won’t respond to the mild stimulation of a citronella spray. For safety reasons and for proper fitting, these collars work best if fitted by a professional. |
4. POP View Dog Anti-Bark Collar
[amazon box=”B07BTCBJWY” /]
4.3 out of 5 stars
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Pros |
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The seven progressive levels address the fact that, just like humans, dogs vary in their sensitivity to sound and vibration. |
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Cons |
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The sound or vibration may excite some dogs and lead to undesired behaviors. |
5. PetSafe Stubborn Dog Receiver Collar
[amazon box=”B00115F3FA” /]
4.1 out of 5 stars
When a dog that is enclosed in an in-ground fencing system tries to cross the boundary and leave the yard, a static correction or electrical stimulation will remind it to stay on its property. Dogs that are being taught to stay within the confined area wear a receiver collar that is connected digitally to the electric fence. A transmitter sends radio signals to the receiver collar, which in turn lets a dog know if it’s getting too close to the fence.
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Pros |
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Designed for both cats and dogs, this collar is considered ideal for training hearing-impaired animals. |
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Cons |
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Some people consider an electrical stimulation too harsh a punishment for dogs. The electrical stimulation a dog feels has been likened to a light tingling sensation on the skin. It has also been compared to a splash of water on the face — a quick and surprising reminder to do what you’re told. |
6. SportDOG Brand In-Ground Fence Add-a-Dog Collar
[amazon box=”B000FEQZXM” /]
3.7 out of 5 stars
Concerned dog owners who would like to know exactly how the electrical stimulation feels may simply hold the receiver in one hand and cross the wire boundary. Many people say the shock is not painful, just irritating.
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Pros |
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It is ideal for dogs that weigh at least 10 pounds, and it has a waterproof receiver collar. |
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Cons |
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Some pet owners choose not to use an electrical shock for training. |
7. Petrainer 100% Waterproof and Rechargeable Battery Dog Shock Collar
[amazon box=”B00P7RAVSW” /]
3.8 out of 5 stars
A clear advantage of the remote dog training collar is the fact that dogs that roam away from their owners get significantly more exercise than leashed dogs while on a hike or out hunting.
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Pros |
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This Petrainer collar is ideal for outdoorsmen. The stimulus and intensity level of the tone, vibration, or static shock are adjustable and based on the dog’s weight, breed, temperament, etc. |
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Cons |
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The stainless-steel collar probes must fit snugly against a dog’s neck in order for the collar to be effective. |
8. Ipets 100% Waterproof and Rechargeable Dog Shock Collar
[amazon box=”B07148Z1WH” /]
3.8 out of 5 stars
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Pros |
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Dogs weighing 10 to 100 pounds will fit into one of these remote collars. |
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Cons |
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Some dog owners object to the use of electric shocks on collars. |
9. Gentle Leader
[amazon box=”B00074L4RW” /]
4 out of 5 stars
Head collars typically include head halters that attach to leashes and help control a dog by guiding its head in the desired direction.
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Pros |
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The nose loop is cushioned, making it more comfortable for dogs. |
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Cons |
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This collar requires training on the dog owner’s part. Many dog owners use this collar in conjunction with an obedience class, either in person or online. |
10. Halti OptiFit
[amazon box=”B00EQ3423I” /]
3.5 out of 5 stars
This type of collar is effective in curbing excessive barking and training your dog not to lunge, jump, or act aggressively while on a walk.
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Pros |
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This is possibly the most customizable head halter for dogs on the market. This headcollar won’t rise into the dog’s eyes or slide down to its lips. |
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Cons |
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This collar requires some training on the dog owner’s part. |
The Verdict
All of the above products rank among the best on the market. The best dog training collar for a dog and dog owner who are new to training is the PetSafe Martingale 1” Medium Collar With Quick Snap Buckle.