What is a Dog Whistle?
Whistle training gives owners the ability to communicate with dogs at a distance. One quick blow will alert your dog to come back or stop sniffing around the forest. Dog whistles are best used in situations like hunting and tracking where the dog can be yards away and the human voice just isn't loud enough. Here are some things to consider before you purchase one:
Kinds of Dog Whistles
There are two main kinds of dog whistles: traditional whistles and silent dog whistles. Traditional whistles require owners to blow hard to produce a loud, consistent sound, whereas a silent one creates a high-pitched sound that is more audible to dogs than humans. That also means they're less likely to disturb your neighbors.
Materials
Whistles for dog training are usually made of either plastic or metal. Plastic ones are often less expensive but are not as durable or loud as metal ones. A good dog whistle should come with a lanyard or keyring for easy access.
Dog Whistle Frequency
The frequency of most dog whistles is between 23 to 54 kilohertz, which is just above the range of human hearing. For humans, this may sound more like a hiss. However, some whistles offer adjustable pitch levels that would bring the frequency down to an audible range.
While whistles shouldn't be painful, dogs do have much more sensitive hearing than people. If your dog seems uncomfortable or distressed by the sound of the whistle, stop using it immediately.
To teach your dog to come when you blow a whistle, you'll want to start by training with your dog close to you, in a fenced area, or with your dog on a longline leash. Blow the whistle and when your dog looks at you, give them praise and a treat. Over time your dog will associate the whistle with a reward so they will come when they hear it.
No. Whistle training is a method to communicate clearly with dogs at far distances outside. It might get your dog's attention, but it doesn't prevent or deter dogs from barking.