Are dog whistles more effective for certain types of training than others (e.g. control barking vs. getting them to sit)?
A dog whistle can be used in a variety of different ways. It is most commonly paired with recall training, as it is more distinct and discreet than a human’s voice. However, the dog whistle can be used to stop barking, train basic obedience, or even modify specific behaviors.
Remember: without proper training, the dog whistle is just another sound in the world. Just like with other sounds, they will become desensitized to it and learn to ignore it over time, if not used properly!
Can’t I Just Use a “Regular” Whistle to Train My Puppy?
Sure, if you want annoy the heck out of every human within a mile of you. Silent whistles gained popularity for a reason. You need to use a whistle that will capture the attention of the dog, not the neighbors.
Different Types of Dog Whistles
There are many different types of dog whistles on the market today that produce different fixed sound frequencies, and there are also dog whistles that are adjustable as well as electronic options.
There are currently several different types of electronic dog whistles available for purchase. I’ve never used one and it’s hard for me to tell based off of the reviews how well the products do or don’t work. The lung powered whistles have all got a comparable amount of negative reviews online.
I attribute this to the fact that some people don’t seem to understand that it takes more than just sounding a whistle to make an animal do what you want it to do. There has to be some silent whistle training in order for the product to work.
Or if you are feeling adventurous, you could always try your hand at constructing a homemade electronic dog whistle.
There are many devices purporting to be an electronic dog repellent or a bark silencer (this one is my favorite). There are some that claim they will stop dogs from fighting and barking. Without the proper training in conjunction with the use of the whistle, all it can do is provide a temporary distraction at best, and even that depends on the dog’s level of aggression.
Again, no magical quick fixes exist when it comes to pet behavior. It’s only consistent training that will get you where you want to be.
You can also use your smartphone to download apps that make the sound of a dog whistle.
Much like both the lung powered whistles and the electronic ones, the dog whistle apps available have mixed reviews. And much like both of the other categories of whistles, I say it’s because people aren’t using them in conjunction with proper training. Dog whistles are a training tool, not a magic wand.
The Acme 110.5 Frequency was the first dog whistle I ever purchased for myself. It’s what’s known as a fixed frequency whistle. All you do is put it to your lips and blow. Nothing to adjust or tighten. Perfect for a first-timer.
Personally, I love the fun colors they come in. Having a lanyard is nice, too, especially when you’re trying to hang onto a large dog and palm your treat stash while blowing your whistle, doing a handstand, and juggling knives.
I also have owned the Acme 211.5 Frequency whistle. I couldn’t really tell the difference between the two personally. But then again, I don’t hear quite as well as my dogs do. The main difference between this one and the model shown above is that the frequency the whistle sounds at is at a slightly different fixed rate.
This seemingly minor difference between the whistles can have a big impact on how effective it is on Fido.
Different breeds of dogs have different hearing abilities. Labrador retrievers, golden retrievers, poodles, and cocker spaniels rank among the breeds with the best hearing capabilities.
There are many factors other than breed that can affect a dog’s auditory range. Much like in humans, ear damage from loud sounds or trauma, as well as things like deterioration from age can play a factor as well.
And don’t forget about the ones who just have selective hearing.
This adorable little adjustable dog whistle is around the size of your pinky (well, maybe not YOUR pinky, unless your pinky is average to smallish in size.)
The metal pitch rod lets you change the frequency easily by tightening or loosening the rod. The frequency range this produces seems to work well for most dogs.
The only issue with this type of whistle, besides being easy to lose (as well as a choking hazard for some dogs) because of its size, is that it might take a bit of trial and error before you get the whistle adjusted to the pitch your dog will respond to. Once you find it, setting the frequency of your adjustable dog whistle is easy though.
This one is an adjustable whistle with a locking nut on a chain. Very biker chic. I dig it. But like I said, if your dog doesn’t listen to your verbal commands, he’s probably not going to respond to you making a sound with a whistle either, no matter how cool it looks.
How To Stop Puppy Biting In Seconds
When a neighbor (and good friend) of mine got her first puppy years ago, I was able to to help her out with tips on both leash training as well as crate training which my friend and her new pooch, aptly named Bob Barker, were able to master in no time.
The feeling of pride those accomplishments instilled in us didn’t last too long. Neither of us were prepared for the insanity of him barking throughout the night.
When you’ve lost sleep night after night because your new puppy or your neighbor’s dog barks all night long, it’s the worst. There’s not much you won’t do for some relief. Most people start out with a quick Google search.
Do this and you will find plenty of results that talk about checking local laws and city ordinances. You will unfortunately also find plenty of creeps encouraging varying ranges of violence against the dog.
I was looking for a solution that fell somewhere on the spectrum between murder and a lawsuit. Dog whistles to the rescue!
