How to Stop a Dog from Howling, Whining or Crying
Howling and whining are harder to stop than normal barking because many bark collars do not detect softer vocal behaviour properly. The right collar needs adjustable detection and a correction that the dog understands.
Why Howling and Whining Are Harder to Stop
Normal barking is short, sharp and causes strong vibrations from the vocal cords. Most bark collars can detect it easily. Howling, whinging and whining are softer and don't vibrate the vocal cords enough for most collars to detect.
For this reason, we recommend bark collars with adjustable detection sensitivity. The collar needs to consistently detect the dog’s vocal cord movement; otherwise, the dog will not associate the correction with the howling or whining.
Electric vs Spray vs Sound Collars
In most cases, we usually recommend a quality electric bark collar over spray or ultrasonic options. The deterrent is more effective, more adjustable and suitable for most dogs.
| Collar Type | Works By | Strength | Weakness | Our View |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric Bark Collar | Delivers static stimulation when the dog vocalises | Very high success rate when fitted and adjusted correctly, with options that include adjustable sensors | Some may not be open to this type of deterrent | Best choice for most howling or whining dogs |
| Spray Collar | Releases citronella or unscented spray | Good for some sensitive dogs | Persistent dogs may ignore it. While the sensor can be sensitive, it is not adjustable | Not ideal for stronger howling problems |
| Sound or Ultrasonic Device | Uses sound to interrupt barking | Sound-activated, doesn't rely on vibration of throat | Less direct and can be affected by distance, environment and other dogs | Most dogs will ignore this low-level deterrent |
Recommended Bark Collars for Howling Dogs
E-Collar Technologies BP-504 BarkLess Pro
Good choice for barking or howling
The BP-504 is a good choice when the dog is barking or howling. It has 3 adjustable levels of vibration sensitivity to detect the finer vibrations in the vocal cords.
- Adjustable vibration sensor for softer vocal cord movement.
- 8 levels of static electric corrections, suits timid to stubborn dogs.
- Bark counter to check progress.
- May not detect the whining as effectively as the Dogtra Smart NoBark.
Dogtra Smart NoBark Collar
Premium option for barking, howling or whining
The Dogtra Smart NoBark is for customers who want more control. It uses adjustable sound and vibration sensitivity, with settings managed through the Dogtra app.
- Adjustable microphone and vibration sensitivity.
- 10 levels of static electric corrections, suits timid to stubborn dogs.
- Have more control and view bark or howl/whine counter using an app.
- Can also work as a short-range training collar through an app.
- More expensive option
How to Use a Bark Collar for Howling or Whining
- Fit the collar correctly. The contact points must touch the skin. A loose collar will not detect or correct properly.
- Start low. Begin on the lowest practical correction level, then increase only if the dog does not respond.
- Adjust the sensitivity. If the dog howls but the collar does not activate, increase sensitivity.
- Check the result. The goal is reduced vocal behaviour, not repeated corrections.
- Remove the collar daily. Do not leave bark collars on for more than 10 hours per day. Check the dog’s neck regularly.
Are Electric Bark Collars Safe?
Quality electric bark collars use static stimulation, not a harmful electric shock. The important part is choosing a reputable collar, fitting it correctly and using the right correction level.
Read more here: Are Shock Collars Safe?
FAQ: Dog Howling and Bark Collars
Will a normal bark collar stop howling?
Not always. Many bark collars are built for sharp barking and may miss softer howling or whining. Use a collar with adjustable sensitivity.
What is the best bark collar for a howling dog?
The BP-504 BarkLess Pro is usually a good choice because it has adjustable vibration sensitivity for barking and howling. It may not detect the whining as effectively. The Dogtra Smart Nobark is the better collar overall.
Is the Dogtra Smart NoBark worth it?
Yes, if you want app control, bark tracking and more advanced adjustment to detect whining as well as barking and howling.
Are spray collars good for howling?
They can help some sensitive dogs, but they are not our first choice for persistent howling or whining. You also cannot adjust the vibration sensor.
Can another dog set off the collar?
Basic sound-only collars can be affected by other dogs. A vibration-activated collar, or a collar using sound and vibration detection, is usually better.
