Best 5 Shock Collars for Stubborn Dogs
Are you looking for the best shock collars for dogs? Look no further, we did all the testing for you.
Written by Sarah Connor - Pet Nutrition Expert. Updated on 22/05/2023.
Strongest 7 Shock Collars for Dogs in 2023
If you're a dog parent to a stubborn yet wonderful dog breed like the Siberian Husky, Bullmastiff, or Rottweiler, you're probably faced with difficult training challenges.
Training stubborn dogs can be difficult but not impossible. Dog training electric collars can help train your stubborn dog to do almost anything and can be beneficial in solving behavior issues when used together with positive reinforcement.
In this review, we're going to discuss the difference between stubborn dogs and dogs that need more training time. Our dog experts considered breed type, temperament, e-collar efficacy, and safety when choosing the best shock collars for stubborn dogs.
Keep in mind that today's collars have a safety function that will almost time out the collar when the button has been pressed for 8-10 seconds for optimal safety, and that you can train with the no-shock option.After extensive research and testing, we've identified the best dog training collars for stubborn dogs.
Written by Sarah Connor, an experienced canine trainer and nutritionist for over a decade. Her positive reinforcement methods and passion for pups make her a go-to for dog owners.
How We Evaluated the Top 5
Effectiveness
Safety
Value for Money
Customer Service
Top 5 Bark Collars for Stubborn Dogs of 2023
Best Overall
1. Bark Beyond E3 E-Collar
$149
by BarkBeyond
A+
Overall Grade
Total Ranking
A+
Overall Grade
Pet Safety
Projected Effectiveness
Value
Return Policy
Customer Satisfaction
Features
- Multi-functional training modes
- Extended remote range of 800m
- Waterproof
- Durable & long-lasting
- Trio set multi-pet pack best value product
Pros
- Comfortable, adjustable fit for all dog breeds
- Trusted by professional dog trainers
- Easy to use
- Includes an LED screen with an energy-saving mode
- Crafted with lightweight high-quality materials
Professional dog trainers enjoy using the Bark Beyond E3 e-collar for training stubborn dogs because it's affordable, stylish, and easy to use. Customers also like the BarkBeyond E3 E-Collar because it offers a range of essential features that make training stubborn dogs a breeze.
The Bark Beyond E3 is suitable for training small, medium, and large dogs and offers four training modes with eight sensitivity levels, which allow for gentle and safe training with the shock collar.
Pet parents like this collar for training because you don't have to use the shock option, and both the remote and collar are 100% waterproof.
The training range for the Bark Beyond E3 is 800 meters, and best of all, for multi-pet homes, you can opt for the duo or trio pack to get worldwide free shipping at discounted prices.
40% discount has been found and applied to this link!
Runner-up
2. Bark Beyond Anti-Bark Collar V1
$59
by Bark Beyond
B+
Overall Grade
Total Ranking
B+
Overall Grade
Pet Safety
Projected Effectiveness
Value
Return Policy
Customer Satisfaction
Features
- Offers three training modes
- Eight adjustable sensitivity levels
- IP67 waterproof
- Durable & long-lasting
- Stylish and durable with a sporty design
Pros
- Includes Smart-AI bark technology for optimal safety
- Trusted by professional dog trainers
- Comfortable, adjustable fit for all dog breeds
- Bestseller in 2022
Cons
- Often sold out
Our experts ranked this as one of the best bark collars for 2023. Customers said there was an immediate change in behavior and that it held a charge for a long time.
They also added that this training collar for stubborn dogs did not hurt them and that they could use positive reinforcement and reward their dogs for quiet behavior.
The takeaway with Bark Beyond's Anti-Bark Collar V1 is that the receiver is lightweight at 2.3 oz and features durable reflective nylon material.
For the first time, dog parents and trainers can enjoy a safe and reliable dog bark collar for stubborn dogs. Each Bark Beyond product is equipped with heavy-duty software and reflective " baseball" stitching to deliver optimal durability and visibility.
The shock collar is adjustable between 12 and 62 cm and suitable for dogs over 6 - 150 lbs. The Bark Beyond dog bark collars eliminate barking behavior and are secure and comfortable for all dog breeds.
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Best Value
3. Bark Beyond Anti-Bark Collar S2
$149
by Bark Beyond
B
Overall Grade
Total Ranking
B
Overall Grade
Pet Safety
Projected Effectiveness
Value
Return Policy
Customer Satisfaction
Features
- Crafted with a Smart AI Chip
- Crafted with a 25-inch adjustable collar in 2 stylish colorways
- Easily customize intensity & functionality for individual dogs
- Affordable for multi-pet homes
- Includes Bark Beyond's best-value trio bundle pack at $299.00
Pros
- Includes 7 adjustment levels
- IP67 waterproof
- Long battery life
- Safe, humane, and durable
- Only responds to your dog's barking
Cons
- Often sold out
This is another bestseller, with customers saying it worked to stop their dog's excessive barking in the middle of the night. They also liked this no-bark collar for stubborn barkers because you can never have to use shock, and the beep or vibrate low settings mode works effectively.
One of the standout features of the Bark Beyond S2 collar is its adjustability. With a length of 25 inches, it can be easily customized to fit dogs of all breeds and sizes, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for every pup. You can use shock-free modes like beep, vibration, beep, and vibration, or beep, vibration and shock.
This smart training collar works for dogs weighing 11 lbs to 110 lbs. Featuring seven sensitivity levels, the S2 anti-bark collar charges up in 30 minutes and offers a 12-day run on one charge. It also features a protection function with two silicone sleeves that protect the dog's skin.
We like this anti-bark collar because you can turn off the shock and have no-shock training.
As for multi-pet homes, the trio pack's best value deal at $99.00 each gives you free worldwide shipping and a 14-day money-back guarantee.
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Customer's Favorite
4. Dogtra 1900S Remote Training E-Collar
$239.99
by Dogtra
B-
Overall Grade
Total Ranking
B-
Overall Grade
Pet Safety
Projected Effectiveness
Value
Return Policy
Customer Satisfaction
Features
- IPX9K certified (withstands high heat and high-water pressure)
- 3/4-mile remote range
- Extensive range of models to choose from
- Offered in 4 colorways
- Durable, sporty, and waterproof
Pros
- Suitable for all dog sports, including water sports and rough terrain hikes
- It boasts a high-performance pager (HPP)
- Crafted with a unique modern design
- Ergonomic slim receiver
- Offers 127 correction levels with gradual & precise correction control
Cons
- Pricier than other models
Another favorite e-collar for stubborn dogs is the Dogtra 1900S with over 1,900 positive reviews. The Dogtra 1900S Remote Training E-Collar offers a range of impressive features that make it a reliable choice for dog training.
With a reach of up to 3/4 mile, you can confidently take your dog off-leash in the yard, neighborhood, park, or field. This shock e-collar is suitable for both short-distance and long-distance dog training needs.
One of the standout features of this e-collar is its precise stimulation control. With 127 levels of low-high controlled stimulations, you can choose the intensity that best fits your dog's personality. The collar provides options for nick (quick 1/2 second), constant (up to 12 seconds), and vibration corrections, ensuring adequate training outcomes.
This e-collar is versatile and dependable for various types of dog training, including basic obedience, hunting, competitive events, and K-9 training. It adapts to different training purposes, making it suitable for many dog parents.
Durability is another key feature of the Dogtra 1900S. The remote and receiver e-collar are fully waterproof and built to withstand demanding conditions such as high heat or the cold winter season. You can trust that this e-collar will endure challenging environments without compromising its functionality.
The ergonomic design of this e-collar prioritizes comfort and usability. The slim receiver is designed to fit comfortably around your dog's neck, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit. The transmitter features a checkered grip, allowing for non-slip operation while on the go. This user-friendly design makes training sessions more efficient and enjoyable when training stubborn dogs.
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Amazon Bestseller
6. SportDOG 425X
$59.99
by SportDOG
B-
Overall Grade
Total Ranking
B-
Overall Grade
Features
- Fits dogs 8 pounds or larger with neck sizes 5" - 22"
- 25 feet submersible via DryTek technology
- Offers 21 levels of static stimulation
- Lightweight with a sporty look
- 500-yard range
Pros
- Suitable for sporting dogs in all terrains and weather conditions
- It can be easily customized for any dog's temperament
- Charges in 2 hours
- Easy to set up
- Durable & long-lasting in rain and snow
Cons
- Some customers complained of poor battery life
The SportDOG 425XS is designed explicitly for high-drive and stubborn dogs that do not respond to lower levels of static stimulation. It offers a range of features that make it an effective tool for training stubborn dogs.
This e-collar is designed to provide higher levels of static stimulation, making it suitable for dogs that require more substantial correction. You can train your dog from a distance with a range of up to 500 yards.
The system also allows training up to 3 dogs with the same remote by purchasing additional collars (SDR-AXS).
The SportDOG 425XS is designed for ease-of-use and no-look operation. You can operate the collar without constantly looking at the remote, allowing you to focus on the training session.
This electric e-collar offers 21 levels of static stimulation with medium/high ranges. In addition to static correction, it also provides the option to train with vibration (buzz) and tone (beep), giving you multiple ways to communicate with your dog during training.
The SportDOG 425XS is submersible up to 25 feet, thanks to its DryTek technology. This makes it suitable for training in various weather conditions, including rainy days or near bodies of water.
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Obedience Training for Stubborn Dogs
Stubborn breeds are dominant, sometimes aggressive, and always very independent. They usually have short attention spans and need plenty of positive reinforcement throughout training.
Vetstreet explains that when a dog doesn't listen to or follow commands, it's not because he's untrainable. "The problem is often that normal dog behaviors simply don't conform to human standards of good manners, and changing behavior that comes naturally to a dog can take time and effort," says Vetstreet.
Sometimes, basic obedience training can be difficult, and if your dog is stubborn or has problem behaviors from a lack of training or socialization, combining positive training with e-collars can be one of the most effective ways of changing behaviors. Vetstreet says it's key to have high-value rewards and to increase the frequency of the rewards, which will often improve your dog's response.
Game Changer
Shock collars can be a game-changer if you've exhausted all other training methods and are looking for a combination of positive dog training and e-collar training for a stubborn or independent dog breed like the following breeds:
- Siberian Husky
- Akira
- American Foxhound
- Basset Hound
- Dalmation
- Shiba Inu
- Bullmastiff
- Chow Chow
Taking the time to understand your dog's behavior and motivations can significantly improve the training process. Additionally, using positive reinforcement techniques with rewards and e-collar training can help motivate your dog and make training sessions more enjoyable for everyone.
Understand the E-Collar
An e-collar is a training tool that sends a signal to the collar, delivering a stimulant to catch your dog's attention. The collar is designed to get your dog's attention and correct their behavior or reinforce positive behaviors. However, it's key to note that an e-collar must be used correctly and safely.
E-Collars Shape Your Dog's Behavior
If you're having issues with your dog not listening to you at the dog park or not following through because of distractions, it doesn't mean your dog is stubborn. It's possible that your dog has never been appropriately trained and does not have a significant amount of training time.
Lots of Training Time
Nonetheless, suppose your dog has undergone significant training, has lots of practice doing things correctly, and ignores you. In that case, it's time to go back to your trainer and work on training basics without an e-collar until your dog understands the desirable behavior and what is expected. This should be done via positive training only and not the e-collar.
Shock Collar Training for Stubborn Breeds
Using shock collar training can be particularly beneficial for stubborn dog breeds that may require additional guidance and reinforcement. While these breeds may be independent and strong-willed, the mild electric stimulus ( best option) delivered by the e-collar) can be a valuable tool in capturing their attention and encouraging them to follow commands.
The beep or tone emitted by the collar is a clear signal for the dog to pay attention and respond appropriately. Pet parents can effectively communicate expectations and redirect unwanted behaviors by pairing this stimulation with positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise.
Positive Training
When used responsibly and under the guidance of a professional dog trainer, the combination of positive training and e-collar training can offer effective results in shaping your dog's behavior.
Positive training techniques, such as positive reinforcement and clicker training, focus on rewarding desired behaviors and establishing a strong bond between you and your dog. These methods can lay a solid foundation for obedience training and address various behavioral issues.
Basic Commands Using an E-Collar
Start with basic commands such as "come," "sit," "stay," and "heel" when incorporating the e-collar into your training sessions. Using both positive reinforcement and the e-collar will help your dog learn much faster and become more confident.
At Bark Beyond, we recommend teaching your dogs basic commands before using the e-collar so that you have the foundation for more advanced training.
It's also important to be consistent in your training and avoid punishing your dog for not understanding a command immediately.
Stubborn Dog Breeds
With many of these breeds, it's best to first work with a positive trainer to get the help you need. The simple fact is that your dog will need training and socialization; otherwise, they'll end up with behavior problems.
E-collar training should begin after six months of age when your dog has already learned basic commands like come, go, down, and stay. Because today's e-collars are sophisticated, it's best to learn how to use an e-collar as gently as possible.
Clear Communication
Clear communication is also key with e-collar training. Consistent commands and verbal cues should be used to help the dog understand what is expected of them, reducing confusion or fear.
The e-collar should be used to overlay the already established responses to commands like recall in the house and yard. It is important to remember that shock collar training should not be relied upon as the sole training method for stubborn breeds; it should be used as a supplementary tool alongside other positive training methods like leash training, hand signals, and vocal commands.
Mild Electric Stimulus
These shock collars deliver a mild electric stimulus to grab your dog's attention and redirect their behavior. However, choosing a shock collar that prioritizes your dog's safety and well-being is key.
Final Thoughts
E-collars provide a non-distracting and focused way to apply gentle pressure at a distance, reinforcing commands with just the right amount of pressure when used correctly. They can be a valuable training tool for stubborn dogs that are difficult to train.
Bark Beyond firmly believes in positive training methods.
We also believe in no-pain training via no- shock collars like the Bark Beyond E3, which offers additional alternative stimulation via gentle beep and tone with no static or vibration for stubborn dogs that are also sensitive and shy.