Devocalization of Dogs

Position

“The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) discourages “devocalization” of dogs unless it is the only alternative to euthanasia, and humane treatment and management methods have failed.

Background

Devocalization is a surgical procedure that may result in infections, laryngeal paralysis, and airway stenosis. Dogs bark for many different reasons including boredom and although it can be normal behaviour, excessive barking can also be a manifestation of behavioural illnesses such as generalized anxiety, compulsive disorder, or separation anxiety. In such cases, the underlying cause, anxiety, should be treated.

Unacceptable barking can usually be addressed with a behaviour modification programme (1) using positive training methods, adequate exercise, appropriate social interactions (i.e. not leaving the dog alone tied up for long periods), and medication if necessary. The use of shock collars has been associated with short-term and long-term negative consequences including fear and anxiety (2) and should be avoided if possible.   Citronella bark collars may be effective for dogs that do not have an anxiety disorder (3).

References

1. Overall, K. Clinical behavioural methods for small animals. Mosby-Year Book Inc. Missouri, USA 1997

2.  . Schilder MBH and JAM van der Borg.  Training dogs with help of the shock collar: short and long term behavioural effects.  Applied Animal
Behaviour Science 2004: 85: 319- 334.
 

3. Wells DL. The effectiveness of a citronella spray collar in reducing certain forms of barking in dogs. Applied Animal Behaviour Science 2001;73:299- 309.

(Revised November 2009)