Don’t Wake the Neighbors: Barking Busters

   Posted: March 18, 2009 | Comments: 0 | Views: 453 | Rating: Not Rated

Dogs love to bark, but the noise can be annoying for pet owners and those who live nearby. If your dog barks constantly, you can work through the problem. Realistically, you should expect your dog to bark sometimes. The key is to keep the barking under control.

The first step is to evaluate why your dog is barking. If you leave your dog alone for long periods of time, barking can become an issue. This is often just a cry for attention. Sometimes dogs who don’t get enough exercise will bark to release pent up energy. An easy solution for these dogs is a daily walk around the blog or a half hour of playing catch in the backyard.

Some dogs bark out of habit. They have learned that barking elicits a response from you and gets your attention. Never train a dog to bark to get treats, go outside, or get a belly scratch. Don’t encourage barking as a positive behavior and your dog will soon find a new habit.

If your dog seems to bark a lot to get your attention, then try giving him more opportunities for social interaction. Maybe your dog needs a companion to play with during the day. If adding another dog to your family isn’t an option, then take your dog for a stroll through a busy park in the evenings. You will probably encounter other dogs and people while you walk which gives your dog an opportunity for socializing. Many people even let their dogs visit playgroups or doggie daycares each week to enjoy time with other animals. Sometimes a little companionship can stop barking completely.

If barking persists after trying exercise and socialization, then it might be time to get a trainer involved. Until you can find a good dog trainer to help with your problem, try to minimize the noise as much as possible. You might need to keep your dog inside at night or confine him to a room with some music playing to mask the noise.

Try to identify the triggers that seem to cause your dog to bark. If the doorbell sends him into a barking fit, then disconnect it for a few weeks. If the ringing phone makes your dog bark, then turn the ringer off for awhile. Get rid of the triggers and your dog will bark less. As the dog’s barking decreases, the habit will gradually begin to die.

Be consistent when you train your dog to stop barking. No dog is going to be silent always, but when barking is inappropriate, firmly say “No barking.” If your dog responds by getting quiet and settling down, immediately lavish him with praises and give him a treat. If the barking continues, then repeat “No barking” in a big, firm voice. If this still doesn’t work, confine him for awhile until he calms down. Try again next time or hire a professional trainer to help.

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