Debarking Your Dog

This procedure involves the removal of 2 folds of tissue located on either side of the larynx or voice box in the dog. The so called vocal folds actually function to come together in order for the dog to make an audible sound with pitch.
When removed, the sound made by the dog is much like that of a whisper or a bark heard from far away when the dog is right next to you. The effect of debarking can be explained much like an individual trying to whistle while the lips are apart. In order for sound to occur, air must travel through a narrow opening in either the voice box for a bark, or the lips for a whistle to occur.
Most cases of owners requesting their dogs to be debarked are in locations where disturbing the neighborhood becomes a problem. In some cases, household disruption occurs as some dogs refuse to pay attention to owners wishes for them to cease the barking.
Other alternatives to surgery are available. These include electronic devices worn about the dog's neck which emit an electric shock (much like that of a static shock) when barking occurs. Remote collars are activated by the owner. Self activated collars do not depend upon the owner's presence, and are activated ideally by the dog's bark. However, in some cases, these self activating collars can discharge for reasons other than barking, which can confuse and serve to de-spirit the dog.
Other collars can be worn which emit scents such as citronella when the dog barks. These collars are preferred over the electric devices, in that the startle response is achieved in a less harmful process.
Sometimes, if the barking is only a problem when the owner is present, using external devices to startle will work. A favorite device used for purposes of startle, is simply a can of coins that is shook sharply toward the dog when the undesirable barking occurs. This serves to divert the dog's attention toward the can of coins, and away from the barking stimulus.
Choose wisely and smartly for your dog if barking is a problem. Remember, if you live alone, or are away from the house for periods of time, a barking dog can thwart a potential robber from breaking and entering your home. If complaints are occurring from your neighbors however, common courtesy should direct you to take appropriate action to ensure peace and quiet in the neighborhood.