How to Stop a Dog From Barking at Another Dog
Training your dog not to bark at other dogs is an essential part of being a responsible pet owner. Nuisance barking, or barking that has the potential to escalate into a dangerous scenario between canines, should always be addressed as quickly as possible. But teaching your dog not to bark at inappropriate times will take time and patience. The right type of training equipment and environment will make all of the difference in turning the habit around.
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Instructions
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Socialize your dog, to make him feel more comfortable around other canines. This is a key point when attempting to correct inappropriate barking behaviors. Barking is instinctive, and if not taught the skills necessary to control it, he will continue to carry on in this manner. Barking that is created do to uncertainty, will be minimized the more he interacts with other members of his species. Thus, the more association he has with other dogs, the less he will see them as a threat.
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Train him in a quiet area without distractions. You want your dog to learn submissive behavior and view you as his pack leader. You will not be able to break bad barking behaviors in an area that has continuous interferences. Therefore, in addition to social time, he also needs many hours of one on one time with you. The main goal in submissive training is to teach your dog that you are the boss and require his full attention at all times.
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Use a correction collar for submissive training and during any walks where he may encounter other dogs. The collar should fall loosely around the neck of your dog during the relaxed state, while still offering an opportunity to tighten during corrections. Usually this is obtained by using a choker collar, but make sure the collar is an appropriate size and style for your dog. Over sized collars with spikes or claw grips are only to be used in the worst case scenarios.
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Lead your dog to the quiet training area while he is wearing his training collar accompanied by a short leash. Walk with your dog directly along side of you. If he falls behind, give him a tug to speed up. If he pulls ahead, another tug teaches him to fall back. As you walk side by side, see to it that all of his focus is on you exclusively. If he turns to look at something, immediately give the collar a tug to refocus him. He should only be looking straight ahead, or at you. The outcome of this training lesson should be complete submission to you, along with his full focus on your training session. Continue this exercise until you are confident that your dog has the ability to walk with you on the leash without falling victim to environmental interruptions.
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Follow up the conclusion of your dog's training with a walk through the park or other area where other dogs are prevalent. If the above exercise has been completed successfully, he should be able to avoid any confrontation or barking at other dogs. If you find that your dog has not completely conquered the nuisance of barking at another dog, repeat the above training steps as often as necessary until this has been accomplished.
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Tips & Warnings
There are dog collars on the market that are designed to stop problem barking. Some let out a burst of citronella, while others inflict a slight electrical shock to deter the habit.
If you find that you need a little extra help with teaching your dog not to bark at other dogs, think about hiring a professional.
Never walk with your dog off of the leash in public areas unless you are completely confident that he will not be distracted by other dogs, people or small animals. A leash is always recommended.
Teaching your dog not to bark when it is inappropriate should be counteracted with praise and treats during the times when barking is expected.
If you fear that your dog's barking could possibly escalate into a dangerous situation, muzzle him around other dogs.
Resources
- Photo Credit Jonae Fredericks
