Barking Dogs - What you Should Know

Dogs bark for a number of reasons, here are a few things to look at if this is a problem for you:

• Before you acquire a dog, investigate the breed. Some breeds have been bred to bark more then others.
• Once you bring your dog home, do not encourage barking. Teach your dog the "QUIET" and “SPEAK” commands. Remember; do not yell at the dog, he thinks you are barking with him!
• If your dog is barking out of fear, quietly and quickly take him out of the situation and carry on as normal. Do not speak to the animal or comfort it (this includes looking at him) while it is being fearful, that will only reward the fear.
• A dog needs daily exercise and interaction with its people. A long walk or run and play sessions are needed everyday. Many dogs that are left alone begin to bark, dig and chew anything in reach. What else do they have to do with their time?
• The reason many dogs bark is because they are lonely (which may include separation anxiety). If a dog is left by itself a lot, such as -dogs that are chained up for long periods of time- they become frustrated and possibly aggressive, depressed, etc and may bark to get attention. Remember, dogs are pack animals and need human/pack contact.
• Dogs bark to warn off intruders (real or imagined).
• Dogs that are left outside while their owners are gone are likely to bark for extended periods of time. This is unfair to everyone in your neighborhood.
• Using a "shake can" (an empty pop can with a few pennies taped shut).  When the dog barks, shake the can once or twice - this will get the dog's attention.  Tell the dog "quiet" and then reward him for obeying.
• Another option is using a water spray bottle.  When the dog barks, give him a short spray to get his attention and tell the dog "quiet" and then reward her for obeying.  This works on most dogs, even those that like water as it is used to get their attention.
• A doggie door can help with reducing stress as the dog can then go in and out of the house and is less likely to bark excessively.
• If all else fails, you can check with your veterinarian about having your dog debarked. This requires a short hospital stay with minimal cost.

Teaching a Dog to Speak

This trick should only be taught if you are going to teach “Quiet” as well!  Have someone ring your door bell to get your dog to bark.  Let your dog bark 2 to 4 times and then say “Speak” and give him the treat.  By giving him the treat after only a few barks, he learns not to bark for extended periods of time.

Quiet

If you have already taught your dog “Speak”, this will be easier.  Tell your dog to Speak or catch him when he is barking.  Once he stops barking (you may have to distract him to get him to stop –you can clap your hands to get his attention so he stops barking) the moment he is silent, say “Quiet” and give him a treat.  This is a trick you should practice often, remember - do not yell at the dog, when you yell, in his mind you are barking with him!